The new year will be here soon. What does that mean for all of us? That means New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions that will probably stay strong for a good few weeks, and for the lucky ones, a good few months. But unfortunately, most of us do not have the willpower to keep our New Year’s resolutions for the entire year.

Resolutions are a great way to start something new, to refresh our lives, and to get ourselves on some sort of self-improving track. Every year I try to think of one really great resolution, but this year I already know what I am going to strive for.

In 2017, I want to spend my time, money, and soul having experiences. Not buying things.

I think this is a great resolution for everyone to strive for.

As a millennial, I have the “travel bug” where I find a new place I want to go almost every day. In, 2017 I will be striving to go to those places or will, at least, work towards going there one day. What do I mean by experiences? Well, they can mean so many things, so here are a few:

Traveling around your state.

Going up in a hot air balloon.

Meeting your favorite author at a book signing.

Going on more hikes.

Watching your favorite band play live.

The list can go on forever. Experiences are so much more valuable to our lives and to our overall well-being than material things will ever be, because they teach us about ourselves. Experiences become favorite moments and favorite moments become memories which make great stories as we get older. You are more likely to remember that amazing Guns N’ Roses concert you went to with your dad than the eye-shadow palette your friend gave you that one Christmas. At least I know those are the kind of things I’d remember.

Experiences enrich our time on Earth. They make us feel like we are actually living. Material items don’t do that. They give us a temporary happiness, but they don't always make it to our memories.

So if it’s in your heart this year to set a New Year’s resolution, consider experiencing life more than you are right now. Take advantage of the opportunities and activities around you. Put aside those “things” that you received for the holidays or spend your savings on something other than that new gadget that you so desperately want.

Experience are worth your money.

Experiences are worth your time.

Experiences are good for your soul.

You might not always have the chance to experience things as you can right now as with age, can come changes in your health, your attitude, and your finances. So why not take advantage of the things you want to do right now, but going out and doing them!