10 alternative New Year resolutions that'll make your life better

Most of us will kick off the new year with resolutions we secretly know we can’t keep. Stop drinking, join the gym. Standard. We start with good intentions and buckle under the misery of FOMO and feelings of depravation.

So this year, why not try an alternative resolution – something pleasant you can do for yourself that’ll make a positive impact on your health and well-being without plunging you deeper into the January blues.

1. Experiences not things

This year why not treat yourself to experiences rather than things? Whether it’s a mini break, a visit to a gallery or a fun day out; ten years from now what’s more likely to stick with you? That expensive candle or a treasured memory of a happy time? Dr. Thomas Gilovich, a psychology professor at Cornell University says: “You can really like your material stuff. You can even think that part of your identity is connected to those things, but nonetheless they remain separate from you. In contrast, your experiences really are part of you. We are the sum total of our experiences.” Research by San Fransisco State University revealed people who splurged on experiences rather than things reported feeling happier and that their money was better spent.

2. Invest in your friendships

Friendships are vital to our health and well-being, they help us develop a sense of meaning and direction in life, protect against stress and provide distraction from the more serious aspects of life. According to Dr Jonathan Leach, “Being part of a supportive social network can lead to better mental and physical health for many people.” If you don’t get out enough make 2017 the year you change that. Put time aside for yourself and your friends, whether it’s once a week or once a month, try to have something social in your dairy on a regular basis – it’s good for you!

3. Volunteer

Apart from the obvious benefits of helping others and improving communities, volunteering actually makes you happier and healthier; helping to reduce stress, combat depression, make new friends and even advance your career. A study by the London School of Economics revealed the odds of being “very happy” increased by 7% among those who volunteer monthly, 12% for people who volunteer every two to four weeks and 16% for those who gave up their time on a weekly basis. Your commitment can be as big or small as you want it to be. Find out about opportunities in your local area here.

4. Set goals

According to a study by Gail Matthews at Dominican University, people who wrote their goals down on paper accomplished significantly more than those who didn’t. So, what do you want to achieve this year? No matter how big or small your goals are, firm them up outside of your head and make them a reality. Use this Forbes article to help you.

5. Listen

Do you listen properly? Truly listen, not just hear the words. To listen effectively is to give another person the gift of time. It’s a simple act but one we all too often get wrong – we’re either too busy formulating a response, interrupting or trying to solve the other persons problems. Genuine listening helps deepen relationships, build friendships and even save marriages.

6. Learn to complain effectively

We’re a nation of confrontation avoiders; most of us won’t complain about a crap dining experience or substandard service we’ve received for fear we either won’t get the desired outcome or to avoid arguments. Same goes for gripes we may have with friends, family or our significant others. Instead of solving things constructively we become energy vampires, pointlessly complaining about our woes, achieving nothing but reliving the aggravation of the situation over and over. Too much moaning can be toxic for your mental health, so the next time you find yourself complaining about a situation, ask yourself: is this something I’d like to change? If so, empower yourself by taking positive action to complain effectively and get a result.

7. Meditate

Meditating is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and well-being. Regular practice has been proven to bring on myriad benefits including: reducing anxiety and depression, boosting the immune system, improving focus and memory and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It’s easier than you think, learn how here.

8. Practise gratitude

The act of practicing gratitude has been scientifically proven to open the door to more relationships and improves psychological and physical health. Grateful people also sleep better and report improved self-esteem and reduced aggression. Whether it’s taking a moment to silently appreciate the good things you have – however small – or to write them in a gratitude diary, this simple act is easy and good for you!

9. Learn a new skill

Ever had a hankering to learn a new language? Perhaps you’ve always wanted to make your own clothes? Whatever’s been piquing your curiosity, why not make 2017 the year to satisfy it? Take an evening class at your local college or check out one of the free online courses at Future Learn.

10. Live frugally

How much pointless junk will you have acquired by the end of the year? Why not make 2017 the year of living frugally? That doesn’t mean having a miserable year of depravation and skimping on essentials, just avoid the materialistic side of life – make do with the clothes you’ve got and read all those unread books! You can still eat well and do fun stuff (see point 1).

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