The New Year is almost here, and you know what that means — time to make New Year resolutions we’ll enthusiastically abandon by February! But hey, this year could be different. But before we dive into our New Years resolution ideas, why not take a look at our New Year cards? We’ve got a wealth of standout designs that will help you kick off the New Year on a positive front.
What is a New Year’s resolution?
What exactly is a New Year resolution? Yeah ok, we hear you, of course you know what a New Year resolution is, but there’s no harm in hearing the definition again and it might actually trick our brain into sticking to it.
So, in the simplest way, so our brains won’t forget, a New Year resolution is a promise you make to yourself at the start of the year to improve something, try something new, or stop a bad habit. Basically, it’s your yearly ‘New Year, New Me’ goal — though it often turns into ‘New Year, same me’ by February. But, let’s really try to make an effort this time. Below we’ve wrapped up our wackiest and most interesting New Year’s resolution ideas, from funny New Year resolutions, to New Year resolutions for students and everything in-between.
Mindful New Year resolutions
In a world that’s so hectic, it’s easy to forget to slow down and focus on the present moment. This year, why not make mindfulness a priority? Rather than stressing about unrealistic goals, consider New Year resolutions that help you find peace, reduce stress, and enjoy life more fully.
Spend an entire day blissfully ignoring your inbox
Spoiler: the world won’t implode if you’re offline for 24 hours. You’ll honestly feel liberated. Just pick a non-work day to try this experiment (because telling your boss that you were finding inner peace instead of answering emails might not go down too well). Even on weekends, those pesky notifications pop up like whack-a-mole, begging for your attention. Take charge and banish the distractions—activate ‘Do Not Disturb’ and reclaim your sanity!
Exercise for the good vibes, not for the scales
Ditch the scales, they’re doing you no favours. Instead, exercise to feel good and view losing weight or gaining muscle as a bonus. We all know exercise can have a profound impact on our mental health. By shifting your focus, you’ll discover just how incredible the benefits of exercise really are — think better moods, more energy, and a whole lot less stress.
Listen to podcasts or audiobooks to learn something new
Finding time to read can be tough with busy schedules, but luckily, there’s a wealth of podcasts and audiobooks these days that can teach us valuable lessons and boost our mental health. From fitness and psychology to money management, these resources are easy to fit into daily life, whether you’re cooking dinner or on a car journey. Plus, absorbing information through audio can make the info stick better. Embracing these habits might just spark a long-term mindset shift.
New Year resolutions for students
Ah, the new year — a fresh start, full of potential and the promise of getting your head down for coursework and exams. But let’s be honest, university life often comes with its fair share of distractions. Below we’ve highlighted some new resolutions for all you students who need help staying on track.
Set up a study routine
Procrastination is basically a university rite of passage, right? Between the endless notifications, your friend’s spontaneous texts asking you to go out, and that one Netflix show you really need to finish, studying can feel like a distant dream. But fear not! A study routine can save the day. Set a few specific study times, break tasks into bite-sized chunks, and put your phone in another room (you know, out of temptation’s reach). You can still enjoy the social side of uni, just make sure your books get some love too!
Power down: go phone-free for one evening a week
Yes, you read that right, turn your phone completely off. No buzzing notifications, no endless scrolling, and no tempting ‘just one more look’ moments. It’s the ultimate digital detox. You’ll be amazed at how peaceful the evening feels without a glowing screen glued to your hand. Just don’t forget to grab an actual clock (remember those?) if you rely on your phone to check the time. Who knows, you might even rediscover hobbies, conversations or books or — gasp — your own thoughts!
Cut the gossip
Leave gossip in last year’s past. Many of us have a big appetite for gossip, and while it’s part of human nature, indulging in negative gossip can drain your energy, fuel negativity, and distract you from more important things, like acing that exam. The more we criticise others, the more likely we are to apply that same harsh lens on ourselves. This year, let’s leave the gossip behind and focus on building positive, meaningful connections with others. Your productivity (and mindset) will thank you.
Funny New Year resolutions
Forget the same old resolutions that you try each year and inevitably forget about (or purposefully ignore) once January has passed and kick off the new year with a bit of sass by embracing these funny New Year resolutions instead.
Start a flash mob
Got a hidden talent for dance? This year, forget the usual resolutions and commit to starting spontaneous flash mobs! Gather friends, family, or even strangers, and show off your moves in unexpected places. It’s a resolution that guarantees laughs, spontaneity, and that feel-good factor. Who knows, you might even go viral!
Order every drink on your favourite coffee shop’s menu
Pick your favourite coffee shop and make it your mission to try every drink they offer in the new year. From iced lattes to whipped frappes, it’s the perfect excuse to sample everything. Just don’t try to order too many at once otherwise you might end up with a caffeine overdose (and an empty bank account).
Before you head off, make sure to check out our other new year blogs, where you’ll find all sorts of tips, including, what to write in a New Year card, New Year gift ideas and alternative things to do on New Year’s Eve. Alternatively, if you’re throwing a New Year’s Eve bash, our New Year’s Eve party ideas offers some excellent suggestions.
