2016 is coming soon and many people will be making New Year’s resolutions. If you can’t think of any here are 10 easy ones—along with how you can maintain them through out the year.
1. Write in a thankful journal. If you’ve read any of my other posts, you’ll know I’m a big advocate of thankfuls (read about the benefits of gratitude here). Each day list three things you’re thankful for, and at the end of the week review them. I’ll help you realize how great life really is.
2. Exercise more. This is one of the most popular resolutions, but is often not maintained. Instead of trying to do a crazy workout everyday, instead try walking ten minutes a day or doing five to ten pushups before you start your day. Any amount of exercise counts, just be sure to start increasing the amount as time goes on.
3. Spend less time on digital devices. The average American spends over 11 hours a day on digital media. Simple ways to stay off are to set your phone aside for an hour each day and do something else, like exercise or read; you can leave your phone at home for a day every week; or even have a no electronics day each week.
4. Eat healthier. Food is a huge part of our daily lives, but too much of it—or junk food—can be bad for you. When you get the urge to eat even when you’re not hungry, go do something else to take your mind off it. Or if you’re reaching for the Oreo’s force yourself to eat healthier food, like an apple or some carrots. Remember: mind over matter.
5. Learn something new. Whether you want to learn to play a sport or even speak another language there are plenty of ways to learn these days. YouTube has thousands of videos on (probably) every topic known to man. If you want to learn a new language there are many websites and apps which you can use for free to learn. You can even learn to play an instrument. Or something smaller like how to do a sudoku or draw a face.
6. Forgive others and don’t hold grudges. What’s a better start to the new year than to start off without any grudges or pent up anger. This year try not to stay angry at people and just forgive them for their mistakes no matter how hard it is. It’ll make your life a lot better, and happier.
7. Wake up at a decent hour. If you’re the type of person who sleeps in to all hours of the day, maybe you want to consider waking up a little earlier. Even if you’re not that person there are still many benefits to waking up early, including a happier, healthier, more productive lifestyle. Don’t worry you don’t need to get up at 5 every morning, from 7:30 to 8:00 am is a good time to start your day.
8. Help people more often. If everyone helped others when they needed it the world would likely be a much friendlier place. Even little things like opening the door for someone help or carrying someone’s groceries to their car. You can ask how someone’s day was or just let them know you care. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but anything helps.
9. Floss your teeth! This is one I need. According to my dentist, flossing is probably more important than brushing your teeth and you only need to once or twice a week. I’m not saying you should stop brushing but try picking up this new habit as well.
10. Go out more! Don’t spend your whole life inside, while it’s nice to be home sometimes it even better to get out and do stuff. Try scheduling a day each week where you go out to dinner with friends or family. Or if you’re not feeling well just go outside.
The way to maintain these resolutions, is to start small. Let your new habit begin to form before trying to go all out. If your goal is to exercise more, don’t try to run a marathon the first day, start with a quarter mile or jogging for 5 minutes. As the time goes on increase the amount you do.
The same goes for something like helping others. Start small and build your way up. The more often you do anything, the easier it’ll be to do more.
Hope you enjoyed this list, have a Happy New Year! Remember to subscribe.