20 New Year Resolutions for Millennials

 
New Year rolls around and we start writing down major life changes and goals that really just aren't realistic. January 1st should be a time that we realize we have another opportunity to become the best version of ourselves. It shouldn't be an agonizing year of resolution let-down. I have learned that you have the most growth when you decide to yes, create an end goal, but also make daily little changes to reach that end goal, instead of just running full force on January 1st to exercise for 2 hrs/5 days a week. I want 2017 to be your best year yet, so here are some realistic resolutions to create a year of success and healthy change.

1 | Learn something new
There are so many possibilities you can choose from. Maybe learn a new language, or try your hand at a new recipe. Maybe join a sports team or attend the opera. You'll feel so accomplished!

2 | Seek out a mentor
Find that person in your life that you admire and one day hope to either be as successful as they are or emulate them as a person. Who in your life do you trust, respect and look up to? A mentor should create courage in you and help draw out your unique gifts and talents.

3 | Travel somewhere you've never been
This can be whatever you want. If you want to hop on a plan to Australia, go for it! But travel could also mean visiting a neighbor state or a town in your own state that you've never been before. Adventure is all around, just look for it.

4 | Create an active LinkedIn account
Make this your year to get connected with professionals in your intending field. Start creating your brand and online image and NETWORK. Send a message to that professional who is working at your dream job and ask them for some tips.

5 | Join an exercise class
Do this with friends or better yet sign up solo and make friends in the class. Try anything, there's so many workout classes that are actually fun. I'd recommend Zumba!

6 | Frequent coffee dates with close friends
Taking some time for real life, heart to heart, soulful chats over coffee are just necessities in life. Commit to weekly coffee chats with one friend or group of them.

7 | Dedicate more time for yourself 
Learn to create time for self-care. Schedule it in whether it's for 15 minutes or 60 minutes, you need to take time to relax and re-energize yourself. It's easy to just go, go, go and never give our minds and bodies a break. Self-care is part of having a well balanced life.

8 | Read more non-fiction
Start filling your brain with more substance and actually learn when you pick up a book. Reading more could entail reading blogs or columns or even getting into the habit of reading a newspaper (if you can still find one). Check out this post for some inspiring reads to kick start your year of reading more.

9 | Be more present 
In today's media saturated world, it's easy to just distract ourselves with our phone at whatever opportunity we have. Waiting in line for coffee, we start scrolling Twitter. At dinner with friends and everyone is checking Instagram. I fall prey to this all the time but recently have seen the good that can come out of just being fully present where you're at, whether that be in the coffee line or dinner with friends. Instead of meaningless scrolling, start up a conversation with the person waiting for coffee next to you. You never know the blessing that could come out of that conversation from just saying "hi".

10 | Grow your professional wardrobe 
This is a non-negotiable if you are a budding young professional. Summer internships are coming up and networking events. And don't forget your LinkedIn professional head-shot. So yes, you see you do need some professional wear.

11 | Create a morning routine
This.Is.So.Important in creating a productive, crossing off to-do list, one cup of coffee kind of days. What will your mornings look like...devotions, exercise, maybe getting in a podcast while getting ready.

12 | Give back
Mentor some kids in an after school program. Volunteer at Ronald McDonald House. Spend some time holding babies in the NICU. Donate clothes. Lead a bible study at your church.

13 | Start a blog 
Do you have a strong opinion about something?  Or maybe just have a strong desire to share your unique story. This year try your hand at the blogging world. You will find such an inspiring welcoming community. Blogging could be one of the greatest blessings in your 2017 story. Any questions about this, let me know.

14 | Drink more water
Everyone could get into the habit of drinking more water. Even though we are in the winter season, it's even more important to stay hydrated. Water doesn't have to be boring; spice it up with some citrus slices, or mint leaves, or these SweetLeaf water enhancers. Get into a habit of drinking a class of water when you wake up and before every meal. You'll feel so refreshed.

15 | Become an informed citizen
Even though election season is over, news is still happening all over the world. Exciting things are coming up in 2017, so make it a priority to check headlines daily to stay educated.

16 | Keep a journal 
This is something I'm not to consistent with, but is such a great habit to get into. Journaling can be done in whatever fashion you want, and is a great way to reflect on your year through written memories & accomplishments. Make it a point to journal 5-10 before bed, which is a great way to distress from the day, reflect, and save memories from your day to day life. What a gift to be able to look back on! Here's a link to some of my favorite journals.

17 | Appreciate the time you have with your family 
This is an important one as well as one of the most challenging. We can easily take family time for granted because they'll always be there. Be intentional with family time and give unique attention to each individual. It's the little things. 

18 | Find role models
This is one of the most important NY resolutions you cold make. Searching for strong authentic role models take time but is worth it when you do, because often role models become the fire that gets you going. Learn to follow in their footsteps but in your own shoes. Being successful means you never stop challenging yourself. So, who challenges you to be a role model for others?

19 | Learn to create an attitude & environment of positivity
It's easy to get caught up in life and just go through the motions. Resolve this year to step out of yourself and simply smile or compliment someone. It might not be that big of a deal to you, but you never know what that smile or couple seconds of attention could do for that person.

20 |  Keep and grow relationships
Life will take you many places and introduce you to many people. The greatest gift you can give your future self is growing those connections now. Whether they be from your internship, or the family you babysat for or maybe a professor. Staying connected once you leave that position can be a healthy habit to adopt.