Things you probably aren't doing often enough

Between work, family and social commitments, we’re all guilty of being time poor. But here’s five things you should always make the time to do.

A picture of two legs laying out in a bathtub. There's a yellow rubber duck floating in the bath and curious dog watching from the side.

Check the air pressure in the tyres on your car

You should be checking the air pressure in your tyres at least once a month. The best time to do this is while the tyres are still relatively cold – so don’t leave it for mid-way through that road trip you have planned! Maintaining the correct air pressure isn’t just better for the longevity of the tyres but also really important for your safety - so don’t delay.

Change your bed sheets

As a general rule, if you’re showering once a day you should be changing your sheets weekly. While many of us are guilty of pushing the limits on this one, you spend about a third of your day between the sheets and shed skin cells, oil and sweat each night. According to Martha Stewart, you should also wash your pillows every three to six months*.

Getting active

Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines^ recommend you get at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) of moderate intensity physical activity or 75 minutes (1 ¼) of vigorous intensity physical activity each week. They also recommend doing muscle strengthening activity on at least two days each week. While it may seem like a lot, making small routine changes like walking instead of driving to the train station can make a big difference.

Replace your smoke alarm batteries

According to the Country Fire Authority (CFA) you should replace your smoke alarm batteries at least once a year+. You should also be testing that the alarms work each month. Most alarms have a lifespan of around ten years, so after that you should replace the whole unit.

Checking in on your super

Check in on your super every quarter to make sure it’s working hard for you. You’ll automatically receive quarterly statements in the post or alternatively you can opt-in to get online statements. At the very least you should be checking that your contact details are still correct, your tax file number is recorded and that you’re in the right investment option and have the right level of insurance. 

CHECK YOUR DETAILS 

We can help you with this over the phone at no additional cost – it’s part of your TelstraSuper membership. Just give us a call on 1300 033 166 Monday – Friday between 8.30am and 5.30pm (Melbourne time) or request a call.

* https://www.marthastewart.com/1121911/how-often-should-i-clean?slide=3416960
^ http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines 
https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/installation-and-replacement