11 Things to Do in the Start of the New Year

The new year is a prime time for changes. As you look forward to the year ahead and leave the old behind, you may be motivated to better your life in one way or another. This could be by changing your hair color or waking up earlier.

If anything, the new year is a time to better yourself. Although any time is a great time to better yourself, the spirit of New Year’s Eve can provide the motivation you need. New year, new you, right?

To help you in this new sense of self-discovery, we have compiled a list of eleven things you should do at the start of the new year.

1. Start a Workout Routine

By establishing a workout routine, you are not only benefiting your health, but you are also building up endorphins. These endorphins will allow you to feel a lot better about yourself. You will promote happiness and relieve stress. The stressors in your life won’t even phase you.

2. Try Something New

Is there anything you’ve always wanted to do but were too afraid or didn’t have enough time? Now is your chance! Be dangerous and go skydiving, read that book everyone has been raving about, or go to a restaurant completely different from what you are used to. Trying something new can be fun and allow you to learn more about yourself.

3. Join a Class

Have you ever wanted to learn something new? It is never too late to take on a new lesson. Joining a class will allow you to have fun, expand your experiences, and make you a more well-rounded person. Plus, who wouldn’t want to do something like make pottery for a couple of hours?

4. Get Yourself Organized

The new year means changes—positive ones, that is. Start your new year right by decluttering your life. Being more organized will relieve some significant stress. Go to Pinterest to get some fun ideas for organizing your organization.

Create a board, go to the nearest craft store, or do anything that will motivate you to get your stuff together. Once you have a system going, you won’t have to worry about losing something, which can be a huge relief.

5. Practice a Morning Routine

Waking up earlier than usual may sound stressful, but it is beneficial. Imagine all the things you can do with those extra hours. Whether you relax with a coffee and an extra Netflix episode or work on that project you meant to get done last week, waking up early can give you a head start on your day.

6. Put Aside Time to Relax

Many people forget to relax, especially Millennials. With life constantly going, it is hard to stop and take a moment to breathe.

Putting aside time to relax can really help you out in the long run. Plan a trip to the salon or take an hour-long nap. Your body needs rest to function. You won’t ever be at your best if you don’t relax.

7. Attend a Conference

There is a conference for almost anything. Like to write? Check out the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference in New York City. Are you a mom?

Check out the mom conference that is held every year. Think of what interests you and search for conferences.

Attending a conference will not only allow you to network with a bunch of people with the same interests, but you will also be able to learn things and walk away from the conference feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

8. Network, Network, Network

Making connections is one of the most efficient ways of being successful. By networking, you are opening yourself up to various opportunities. Use LinkedIn to search for people in your given field.

Maybe there are alums from your school who have the job of your dreams. They will likely be willing to help if you message them for advice. You never know what doors it may open.

9. Start a Website or a Blog

We live in an age of technology. Everything is on the computer, including that embarrassing photo of you from the seventh-grade dance. Start building your online presence now.

Use a platform like WordPress or Blogger to set up your website. The best part is you can do anything with it. Determine how you want the world to see you and shoot for the stars.

10. Travel Someplace You’ve Never Been Before

Life is short, too short, so try to grasp it as much as you can. There is a big world and many fun and exotic places to visit.

Have you always wanted to go to Italy? Then do it! Stop dreaming and take action. It may just be the best experience of your life.

11. Clean Up Your Social Media Accounts

As mentioned before, your online presence is out there, so you should consider if there is anything you wouldn’t want your dream job to see. Go through each account and filter things out. Update your photos and bio, and maybe delete those random Facebook friends you’ve accepted and have no clue why. You will feel better about it.

2016 means a whole new year of opportunities. The real question is: Will you grasp or watch it pass you by?