With the arrival of the New Year, it is time to make those good intentions that are nearly as common as January gym memberships. We should not repeat the same tired promises to eat less chocolate or to “be more organized.” Let us be original this year. I offer ten fresh, achievable resolutions, because these resolutions might actually last until February, which is a realistic goal for many people.
- Take a Photo Every Day
Document your year with daily photos. It’s a fun way to capture memories, and by the end of the year, you’ll have a beautiful visual timeline of your life.
- Learn a New Skill Each Month
Pick a new hobby to try every month, like learning to juggle or mastering the art of making homemade pasta. By December, you’ll either be a jack-of-all-trades or a confused person with a lot of random skills..at least you’ll be interesting at parties.
- Cook one New Recipe Every Week
Expand your culinary horizons and try a new recipe each week. Who knows? Maybe by the end of the year, you’ll go from “Can I microwave this?” to “I am a chef.”
- Do a Fitness Challenge
Whether it’s yoga, running, or a fun obstacle course race, challenge yourself with a fitness goal you can work toward throughout the year. Get stronger, feel better, and eventually be able to say, “I’m too fit for this” without it being a total lie.
- Host Themed Parties Each Month
Every month, host a themed party or get-together with friends or family. It could be a retro night, pajama party, or even a potluck where everyone brings food from a different decade.
- Random Acts of Kindness
Set out to perform one random act of kindness every day. Whether it’s buying coffee for a stranger or leaving an uplifting note for someone, it’s as easy as holding the door for someone. You’ll spread positivity and brighten someone’s day.
- Unplug for a Day Each Week
Designate one day a week to completely unplug from screens. No phones, no Netflix, no doom scrolling. It’s like a mini-vacation, but you won’t even need sunscreen. Who knows, you might actually remember what fresh air smells like.
- Travel to One New Place
Explore a new city, country, or even a hidden gem close to home. Traveling opens up new experiences, and you’ll create lasting memories that’ll make your year even more memorable.
- Start a No Spend Week Each Month
Challenge yourself to go an entire week every month without spending any money—except for essentials like food and bills. It’s like a mini vacation for your wallet, and who knows, you might discover just how many free things you can do when your bank account isn’t your weekend plans.
- Start a Weekly “No Agenda” Day
Pick one day each week to have zero plans, no to-do lists, no appointments, just whatever comes to mind. Whether it’s binge-watching a series guilt-free or wandering around town with no destination, this is your weekly day to embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing.
