Have you ever thought that your New Year’s resolution should be to have no resolutions at all? Typically, come mid-January we’re all knee deep in trying to accomplish those promises we made to ourselves in a split second on December 31st… I need to lose 20 lbs, I need to exercise 5x a week, I need to master a new language, or get a new job, and also typically come mid-February we’re all feeling badly about ourselves as our resolve begins to wane. Why stress yourself out even more after a long particularly trying year by making goals that are often not sustainable?
What if instead your resolution is to simply do nothing? Or at least do less? What if your resolution is to be more present in the here and now? Don’t get us wrong, goal setting is extremely important, but resolutions tend to take the joy out of what could otherwise be energizing activities by putting an insane amount of pressure on us. Change and growth is important, but fortunately it’s a journey and not a destination. So, what to do instead?
Clean up and out
There is so much research regarding the cathartic effects of cleaning something out and starting anew. The chaos that you see when you open your cluttered junk drawer or overstuffed closet is the chaos you feel. Sorting, organizing and culling has so many benefits – even small projects can make you feel lighter and freer.
Flash room makeover
Evolving your personal space with something fresh and new always brings a feeling of satisfaction and tranquility. Pick one room in your home and give it a slick new personality. It doesn’t have to cost you a lot of money. Think a coat of paint on a feature wall, pillows, throws, lighting and accessories. It can be therapeutic to strip and stain or re-upholster your furniture too. You can experiment with new styles – do you want to go bohemian or coastal? Contemporary or retro? You get to reinvent yourself through your space.
Practice random acts of kindness
Random acts of kindness can be simple, organic and in the moment. Why not buy a cup of coffee for the car behind you in the drive-thru or offer to help a friend move? Try to be more observant of the world around you and notice when a buddy or colleague could use a favour or a word of encouragement. Kindness is easy and the great thing about kindness that it begets more kindness, so you really get to make the world a better place one small act at a time.
Donate old clothes to a non-profit
Not only does donating your not often worn clothes accomplish the de-cluttering goal, but it also helps families in need and gives your pre-loved items a second life with someone who could really benefit from them. There are numerous types of organizations that will gladly accept donations. From homeless shelters to women’s shelters as well as organizations that help individuals dress for re-entry in the workforce, your old clothes can be someone’s new opportunity.
Adopt a pet
It’s proven that people with pets (of all sorts) experience less stress, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, decreased chance of strokes, feel less lonely and experience increased moods. Adoption also means you can rescue an animal that might not otherwise have a safe, warm, loving home. It’s a win-win for you both.
Whatever you choose, pick something easy to attain, something that doesn’t take a huge time commitment or have a hard deadline and most importantly something that brings you a sense of accomplishment, peace, balance and pleasure.
