Creative New Year’s Resolutions to Make It The Best Year

It’s time to make New Year’s resolutions! Most people resolve to save money, read more, or get in shape–but there’s a reason just 43% of Americans abandon their New Year's resolutions before February. If you’re ready to break this cycle and make this your best year yet, consider these ten creative New Year’s resolution ideas.

1. Pick up the phone.

You know all those people you’ve been meaning to call? Make this your year to actually get it done. Stop relying on social media or texts to stay in touch and resolve to call one person every week. Your loved ones will be happy to hear from you, and you'll feel more connected in your relationships.

2. Stay hydrated.

Ditch the typical health-related resolution of going to the gym more often and vow to drink more water instead. Staying hydrated can boost brainpower, improve energy levels, and impact weight loss. To get started, you can invest in a fun water bottle for easy access, swap out your daily soda for H2O, and make it a point to drink a glass of water right when you wake up.

3. Get informed.

There's so much going on in our world, and we know it can be hard to keep up. This year, make it a priority to cut through the clutter and stay informed on key issues. Find trustworthy news sources and check them frequently so you can stay in the know. Many outlets also give you the option to sign up to receive a digest of the top news stories every day.

4. Say no.

Every year, many people resolve to say yes more and try new things. While saying yes can be great, saying no also has its benefits. Saying no to things or activities that aren’t important to you will help you stay in control, give you more energy, and increase your confidence.

5. Make a theme for your year.

If New Year's resolutions aren't your thing, consider having a theme for your year. Reflect on your goals and choose a word or mantra that holistically embodies everything you want to achieve. This word or mantra will define and guide your year and help you stay on track. Be sure to remind yourself of your theme daily, write it down and display it, or share it with friends and family. Popular word-of-the-year themes include:

• Mindfulness
• Abundance
• Discipline 
• Grace
• Relaxation
• Gratitude 

6. Practice mindfulness daily.

Dedicate a few minutes each day to mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises. This practice can help reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance overall well-being. Start with just a few minutes in the morning or before bedtime, and gradually extend the duration as you become more comfortable.

7. Learn a new skill.

Challenge yourself to learn something new this year. It could be a musical instrument, a foreign language, cooking, or any skill that interests you. Devote time each week to practice and track your progress. This resolution not only expands your knowledge but also boosts your self-confidence.

8. Declutter your life.

Commit to decluttering your physical space and your digital life. Tackle one area of your home or one folder on your computer each week. Donate items you no longer need and delete files or apps that serve no purpose. A clutter-free environment can lead to a clearer mind and increased productivity.

Need a jumpstart? Check out how to clear your clutter with the time you have. 

9. Try doing random acts of kindness.

Make it a goal to perform one random act of kindness each week. It could be as simple as helping a neighbor, buying a coffee for the person behind you in line, or volunteering your time for a charitable cause. Acts of kindness not only benefit others but also bring joy and fulfillment to your life.

10. Create a vision board.

Visualize your goals and aspirations by creating a vision board. Gather images, quotes, and symbols that represent your dreams and desires, and arrange them on a board or in a digital format. Place it in a visible spot to remind you of your intentions throughout the year. This visual representation can serve as a powerful motivator.

New Year, New Goals, New You

As we approach a new year, it's time to break free from the cycle of fleeting resolutions. Instead of the typical promises to save money or hit the gym, consider following these creative alternatives above that resonate with your true desires and values. May these resolutions lead you toward a year filled with growth, fulfillment, and meaningful connections. 

Looking for more New Year’s resolution tips and tricks? Check out our article, “6 Ways to Actually Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions.”