We are 7 days into the new year! How are things going? Are you beginning to second guess the goals you have set for yourself, or did you choose a word for the year? Either way, there are always things
you can try to give yourself a new lease on life, to do something fun for yourself, or gain a new idea of who you are. Give yourself the opportunity to experience new things.
I know that I have always enjoyed trying new things and having new experiences. I want to give myself a chance to try new things, experience new things, and really get to know myself. That is why in today’s article I’m going to share with you seven things that you can do to give yourself an exciting new lease on life. I want you to have the opportunity that I have to experience the joy and excitement throughout your year; choose one or all of the ideas I’m about to share with you.
1. Renew a childhood passion
Take time this year to RE- experience the love of something you had is a child. The childhood can range anywhere from elementary school to middle school, junior high or high school. Think of something that you loved while you were a child and set yourself a challenge to try it again. If you loved swinging, or photography, or enjoyed that English class, take on the opportunity now to experience it all over again. Start by borrowing a book or signing up for a local group for your desired hobby.
2. Get Organized
There is a good feeling you get when everything is freshly cleaned and put away in its place. Commit to making organization a priority this year so that you get that good feeling more often. Go through your basement, a closet, a junk drawer, or a specific room, having a home that is organized can make you feel lighter and less stressed. To get started, pick a specific day of the week or month that you are going to tackle the clutter, or set aside a few minutes throughout your day to work on it. Remember starting small and doing small amounts here and there will get the whole job accomplished.
3. Learn How to Play an Instrument
Playing an instrument is extremely fun and a great hobby that provides a creative outlet and stimulates the brain. Take some time this year to re-learn those skills…remember how much fun it was or how you really wanted to learn those drums 🙂 To begin the process go to your local music store, or find a friend who can help answer some of your questions. Then go out and sign up for a class or purchase some sheet music and do it at home.
4. Learn to Say NO
It is hard to say no at times, but with practice this word will be rolling off the tip of your tongue. Learning to say no will help organize your life and help you de-stress. All too often as adults we put a lot onto our plates at once, which can become overwhelming. So go ahead and give yourself some freedom by saying, “NO.” Begin by practicing in the mirror; say it over and over again. Then, start with small tasks that you would have normally said “yes” to in the past. At first you may feel guilty, but afterward you will feel freer.
5. Try a New Sport or Join a Team
Playing sports is great for your body as well as being extremely enjoyable. Take on the new year with a new skill that improves your body as well as your mind. There are so many options out there; you can find one that fits you best. Not only can you get a great workout in (without even knowing it) but you can make new friends, and make it into a family activity. Begin by scouring your local community centers, or gyms, and asking around to find what is available then sign up. Participating in a sport is a great way to relieve stress, improve your fitness skills, have fun and participate in life.
6. Volunteer
Take some time to feel gratitude for what you have then go help those who are less fortunate. You have so many great things in your life that many others do not have. By committing to volunteer weekly, monthly, or yearly you can help those that are less fortunate than you receive some of the things that you have. You can volunteer by helping in a community kitchen, donating time, donating clothing or groceries, or even donating money. When you start to help others, you will also reap the benefits of feeling good and a self-worth that many do not experience. Start by finding a cause you are passionate about and call to see how you can help.
7. Dream
When we were children we dreamed all the time. We dreamed several times throughout the day and had a different dream for every day of the year. Do you remember thinking about what you wanted to be when you grew up? Well, you can still think that way, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” We are continually growing and learning, this helps us to know that we are alive. Cut out images of things you want, what you want to look like, or where you want to go and create a vision board of your dreams. Focus on that dream every day to see it become a reality.
All of these will give you a sense of your life back. Take time each day to enjoy the experiences and give yourself credit for what you can do. Along the way try something new to add some variety to your life; you will reap the rewards.
Which are you going to add to your day, week, month, or year? Share in the comments below.