7 Unique New Year's Resolutions to Try in 2019

It's the start of a new year, which means it's time to post those "My Year in Review" Facebook videos, wear a goofy "Happy New Year" hat, drink a bottle of prosecco when the clock strikes midnight, and finally sign up for that gym membership 😂

I’ve honestly never been one for New Year’s Resolutions and I’ve never legitimately said, “New year, new me!” But this year, I have decided to try some new things in an attempt to "improve myself."

Aaaaand for the sake of it being a new year and in the spirit of making resolutions, here are some unique goals and ideas for resolutions - some of which I’m going to be working on myself during 2019:

Get to sleep at a decent time (the majority of days or at least during the week)

It’s so true that getting enough restful sleep is beneficial for so many reasons: increased energy, a rise in productivity, staying healthy and avoiding illnesses, clearer skin and complexion, maintaining a healthy weight, etc. But when you have to balance a job, a social life, and all the necessities that come with surviving (grocery shopping, paying bills, household chores, etc.), it can be hard to get adequate amounts of sleep! I’m usually pretty good at going to bed at a reasonable time, but I still need to work at it - which maybe means staying off of Facebook and Instagram before closing my eyes at night :/ I’m making getting to sleep early a goal for a healthier, less stressful life!

Wake up to the first alarm!

Speaking of sleep, I’ve gotten in the horrible habit of pressing the snooze button multiple times each morning before finally waking up for the day. I even purposely set my alarm early so I can press it a couple times without being late. I know the sleep I get after pressing it isn’t restful and I’d be way more alert and energized in the morning if I woke up when my alarm first goes off, but I’m stubborn and I like sleep too much. I’m definitely going to try to work on it though!

Learn a new language (or at least refresh your skills of one you kind of know already)

Long ago I attempted to learn Spanish. Actually, I took Spanish classes for about 5 years in school. Unfortunately, I was young and naive and didn’t retain much of it. I’ve recently starting using Duolingo.com to refresh my Spanish skills. I’m hoping it will help me keep my brain exercised and give me a new hobby to work at. If I’m feeling ambitious enough, I might even attempt to learn some first level French!

Do yoga on the reg

I used to be good about doing yoga a few times a week and I truly believed it helped reduce stress and anxiety and made me feel more relaxed and at peace with the world. I’d really like to get back into it and make it part of my morning and/or nightly routine.

Start a journal (or blog)

This an adventure I finally kick-started last year, and while the journey has been full of "ups and downs" so far, I definitely plan to continue doing it into the new year - even if no one actually reads what I write! It's been a great creative outlet for me to express my thoughts and opinions, and I feel like I've learned so much about blogging and networking in just a short amount of time!

Get healthy (not just "lose weight")

Okay, I know fitness resolutions are a bit cliche, but hear me out! There once was a time when I would work out 5 to 6 times per week - and they were vigorous workouts (I’m talkin’ a 15 minute cardio warmup, an hour+ of weight lifting, followed by running an average of 4 miles). There were days when I didn’t feel like putting in the work, but I felt so good about my health and fitness at that point in my life. On top of working out, I also took the time to plan out and prep healthful meals every week. But I’ll admit I’ve been pretty lazy lately with my diet and workout routine, so I’m really determined to get back on track. This year I’m going to be making a serious effort of eating clean, natural foods and working out nearly every day during the week. Maybe I'll even pick up a kick-boxing class or something like that to stay motivated!

Learn to play an instrument

*Band Geek Alert* When I was in middle and high school, I played the flute in our school’s concert band. I still remember how to read music, but if I’m being honest, I’m very much out of practice. In an another attempt to keep my brain healthy and exercised, I would love to be able to learn how to play a new instrument - preferably the piano, actually. I never took piano lessons as a child, but I’ve always wanted to learn how to play. I know it’s a lofty goal, but I’d love to have someone teach me some piano basics. Currently accepting applications for a personal piano tutor :)

Pet more dogs

Because duh - dogs are the best. I'm also hoping to do some dog/shelter animal-related posts and collabs this year, so make sure you're watching for that!

So there ya have it - some of my plans to make 2019 a great year. Keeping up with this blog is definitely one of the biggest goals I have for myself, so wish me luck in the new year! (BTW, my dress is from Express Factory)

I hope you all have a great 2019! Thanks for reading!