Fresh year, fresh start right? Even if you have been slacking on your brand new resolutions this week, there is still plenty of time to get back on track. If you're like most people, your yearly goals are focused on things that will help make your life better. The list of things that can improve your life is long and varied, and while some items like eating healthier and exercising more are obvious, other ideas aren't. For a different perspective on things that can make your life better this year, check out this list.
Learning a New Skill
Just because you aren't in school anymore doesn't mean you can't learn new skills. Skills are what pay the bills (as they say) and the more of them you have, the higher your chances of finding jobs, providing value and being useful. Choose something that interests you and give it a shot. It could be learning how to take better photos, making things out of wood or programming computers. Take free online courses, find a one-to-one teacher online or take an actual class in your community.
Getting Better Sleep
Not only do we need enough sleep, but we need to improve the quality of it. Have you ever went through a night where you tossed and turned or were restless? Sleep patterns can be improved in many ways, some of them, more unusual than others. Make sure that you have a quality mattress, sheets in soothing colors and lighting that isn't too harsh. You can also spray your sheets with soothing scents like lavender or design your room with a bit of Feng Shui to promote better sleep.
Making Something by Hand
Let your creativity out; it will make you feel good both during and after the process. Slightly different than a skill, you can learn to make something by hand that is enjoyable to you. Spinning pottery, drawing a picture, cooking a meal or building a model can be tons of fun, a good way to relax and remove stress and can make you feel quite proud of the finished product.
Journaling
Get into the habit of keeping a daily journal. Keeping a notebook and pen by your bed is a good way to get into the motions of writing either before bed or upon waking up. The writing doesn't have to be great by any means. Instead, use the practice as a way to get out your thoughts, work through problems and just empty your mind. You can never look at it again, or you can go back and reflect on your words to try and make sense of your life and goals.
Meeting New People
Striving to be more social this year may not be enough. While it's extremely important for your wellbeing to frequently associate with close friends, it is just important to spend time with new people. Talking to new people enables you to get out of your comfort zone, practice your listening skills and learn more about yourself in the process. Plus, you never know what kind of fantastic friendships or networking opportunities can come from it.
Reading Various Book Genres
Reading is immensely beneficial for anyone who takes the time to pick up a book. And, while you may be a total bookworm, it's even more beneficial to get your nose out of the Harry Potter series and try reading something else. There are books out there for everything including biographies of successful people, poems, cooking and sports. Take a free afternoon and browse ALL sections of the book store. There are bound to be some titles that catch your eye in sections that you never even thought of browsing before.
Which of these do you already do? Are they beneficial?