It happens every New Year. The most common New Year’s resolution is undoubtedly vowing to lose weight. However, ringing in the New Year by shedding a few pounds just for the sake of looking thinner is pretty superficial. New Year’s resolutions can be a chance to make a positive change in your life, and should be used to make you happier rather than just skinnier. When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, there are far better options than the popular promise to lose weight that can actually play a role in improving your quality of living.
1. Spend less time on social media.
We are all guilty of it. We spend hours each day scrolling through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. This New Year, trying to limit the time that you spend on social media each day will allow you to spend more time actually interacting with those around you and less time checking how many likes your most recent photo has.
2. Schedule more me time.
Having alone time is often overrated and forgotten. Scheduling time by yourself can help you be more relaxed and in touch with your emotions. Whether it’s a bubble bath or a dinner for one, having more time for yourself can be an extremely beneficial New Year’s resolution.
3. Learn how to do something new.
Whether it’s learning a new language or trying out a new sport, learning something new will force you to go out of your comfort zone and mix up your everyday routine.
4. Take a trip.
Even if it’s just for a weekend, taking a trip can help you escape the stresses of everyday life for a bit and gives you something to look forward to.
5. Make a new friend.
It is easy to feel comfortable with the people that we know, but branching out and making a new friend or two can introduce you to a whole new group of people. Getting out of your comfort zone and putting in the effort to meet someone new can be a very rewarding New Year’s resolution.
6. Stop being late.
If you’re one of those people who are constantly not-so-fashionably late, make a conscious effort to arrive on time to classes, meetings or work shifts this New Year. This will force you to better manage your time and reduce your lateness-related stress.
7. Watch less Netflix.
Though it’s easy to get sucked into a series and spend countless hours watching Netflix each day, stepping away from the screen can have its perks. Cutting down your Netflix time this New Year can open your day to finding other things that you enjoy doing.
8. Get more sleep.
Not just a nap here and there -- quality sleep. Put your laptop, phone, and any other distractions away from your bed and allow yourself a few more hours than usual to have a good night’s rest.
9. Be confident.
Whether it’s walking down the street with your chin up or giving yourself a pep talk, a little bit of confidence can go a long way and ultimately make you happier.
10. Stop procrastinating.
Waiting until the last minute to get things done is a habit that is hard to break, although it definitely has its perks. Committing to stop procrastinating will help you become more responsible and self-disciplined.
