5 ‘resolutions’ to make for 2021
By: Marie Lee
Tags: New Years Resolutions, Lifehacks, Goals, Lifestyle, Productivity

Be present.

Easier said than done, I challenge you to be present in the upcoming year. Instead of focusing on things in the past that you cannot change, or things in the future that you have no control of, focus on the now. As simple as being more aware of your surroundings and environment, can shift your mentality. Take five minutes out of your day, sit still and observe all of your surroundings, what you feel, what you smell… and you will already be well on your way to accomplishing this goal. By learning to appreciate your circumstances in the present moment, no matter what they are, can help you stay in the now.

2. Commit to making healthier choices.

Whether this means eating cleaner, getting to bed earlier, or starting to run, make the commitment to yourself to consciously make healthier choices. Choose someone in your life to hold you accountable; a friend, partner, or roomate that can check in on your progress and make sure you are on the right track. Ask yourself the question, “how can I set myself up for success?” By setting multiple ‘mini goals’ and breaking down a seemingly daunting goal, you are able to put the goal into perspective and not get too ahead of yourself. Baby steps.

3. Find at least one thing to do for yourself.

Whether it is taking a kickboxing class, learning to knit, or calling a loved one, in a society that moves so quickly, finding at least one activity that you enjoy doing is so important in order to take care of yourself and slow down. By finding that special activity that you enjoy doing can help you get out of a rut, reset your body or help you reconnect. Set a goal of how many times that you are going to do this ‘thing’ and stick to it. Make time for this activity because you know it makes you feel good and you prioritize your health above all.

4. Take tech breaks.

In a world that has turned to Zoom in the past year, it is now more important than ever to set boundaries for the usage of devices. Most of us are well aware of the potential negative effects of the internet and mental health. A study conducted by the University of British Columbia found that teens (especially teen girls) who spend less than two hours in front of screen tend to experience lower levels of depressive symptoms. Most devices now have a feature that enables you to see your screen time and in some cases, can set device limits for yourself. Be proactive and monitor how much time you spend online, but also be realistic, and start with small breaks to work your way up. Perhaps on your lunch break you take a stroll outside without your phone instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media as a starting point.

5. Be kind.

Often overlooked and glazed over, but extremely valuable. Reflect on how you feel when people are kind to you. Maybe someone held the door for you at the coffee shop or someone simply smiled at you. When you are more aware of how you feel when people are kind to you, you will want to do the same to someone else. Make someone else’s day. Though a simple goal, a very tough one to carry out long term. Writing down on your phone, in a journal or talking about what you act of kindness you did each and every day is a great way to start and to become more aware of your own behaviour. Being kind to someone else is mutually beneficial to you as well. You feel good when you treat other people with kindness, and people will treat you in the same way. In a different light, also ensure you are being kind to yourself. 2020 has been a challenging year to say the least, and everyone could use some more kindness in their life going into the new year.