19 New Habits You Should Consider Starting In The New Year

Another year has blasted by in the blink of an eye, leaving us wondering where 2018 disappeared to. Every year has its ups and downs; life ebbs and flows like the ocean. As we ring in the new year with high hopes and dazzling dreams of fame and fortune, it’s important to consider that the only constant in our lives is change.

Many people make ridiculous resolutions at the beginning of a new year, then find themselves giving them up just as quickly as they began. Personally, I’ve never been one to make resolutions, but I will sometimes set goals or commitments to myself throughout the year as a way to work towards self improvement.

So, instead of suggesting a new fad diet or urging you to go hike the Swiss Alps, I’m simply going to share things for you to reflect upon making a part of who you are and what you do in 2019. Here are 19 new habits to start in the new year.

Being True to Yourself

Stop trying to be what everyone else wants you to be… simply be you!

Meditation

Whether you pick up a traditional Buddhist practice or go for something more like daily contemplative prayer, make time to sit in silence with yourself and try to clear your mind.

Journaling

Sometimes the best way to process what’s inside our souls is by simply giving it space and time to be free. A journal is a great private space to do this.

Making Music

Music is an amazing way to express our emotions and let everything out, so learn to play an instrument, go to drum circles, or even just make your own playlists on Spotify.  You can also challenge yourself by learning to play musical instruments like the viola, ukulele, or saxophone.  

Budgeting

Seriously, plan out your expenses to live within your means… and then stick to it!

A Consistent Routine

Our bodies thrive on routine, especially the ones that start and end our day. Try to develop and stick to strict, organized schedules for the first and last hour of each day and it’ll make a massive difference in your sleep and ability to wake up.

Celebrating The Small Victories

So often we gloss over the mundane parts of our daily lives, but every moment deserves its own small celebration. Just don’t break into song and dance in the middle of the grocery store and you should be OK.

Bargain Shopping

Seriously, check out sites like Slickdeals or thrift stores. You never know what kind of money you can save!

Donating What You Can

Whether it’s time, gently used items, or even money, giving back helps you feel good!

Speaking Up About What Matters

Advocate for yourself, your loved ones, your community, and your own morals. Stand up for justice, what is right, and what you believe in.

Developing Healthier Habits

Quit smoking. Meal plan. Take walks. Floss your teeth. Whatever it is you need to be healthier, start that new habit today.

Staying Informed

Scrolling through social media isn’t enough; pick up a paper or find a reliable way to get a daily dose of news.

Doing What Makes You Happy

Chase your happiness and don’t let any obstacles get in your way! We all deserve happiness in our hearts.

Living In The Moment

Experience life as it happens without bringing in the pain of the past or the fear of the future. Live in the here and now.

Unplugging Occasionally

Do it for even just an hour each day or one day each week. You’ll be amazed at what happens.

Embracing The World Around You

Don’t close yourself off to all that happens before your eyes; experience everything in real time with your senses.

Getting Outside

Maybe you walk a trail, or maybe you just sit out in the yard for 15 minutes, but regardless, get some sun!

Embracing Your Flaws

Nobody’s winning a prize for perfection; I’ve yet to meet a saint. Own who you are, flaws and all. You will feel better for it.

Maybe this isn’t a traditional type of list you imagine when you hear “Happy New Year,” but sometimes we need to try something new. Hopefully a few items on this list spoke to your needs and desires for 2019. Let’s make life worth living each and every day in the upcoming year! Happy Birthday, Earth!


Photo by Paulette Wooten on Unsplash

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