How to make 2020 yours

By Bianca Kasawdish

As we welcome a new decade, so many of us reflect on the past, and more importantly, set our goals, make our lists and mark our calendars, hoping for a new beginning and a positive change.

Overall, we can all hope for a better and brighter year. In the grand scheme of things, it’s all about perspective. Whether your goal is to get healthier, spend less money or travel more, this comes in different ways to everyone. So, when it comes down to reflecting on what you want for the year, it begs the question - what does this really mean to you?

As for how to achieve specific goals, it can be tough when routine sets in. First, visualize what you want for your life. Once you have that destination in mind, it comes down to making small decisions and even changes toward it. It’s important to remember during this step to mentally prepare yourself and accept that you will make some changes and its okay. There are millions of choices we make each year, ultimately leading us to the path we choose for ourselves.

Get Healthier

This is usually the most common every year. However, it’s usually the one most commonly broken as well. If your goal is weight loss, according to the American Psychological Association, the best way to make this resolution stick is to start small and change only one behavior at a time. Whether you’re into the latest trends like the keto diet, intermittent fasting or the Mediterranean diet, don’t try to do this all at once. If you’re looking to start working out more, be sure to clearly outline your fitness goals, stick to a schedule, and remember to treat yourself every once in a while. Getting healthier means something different to everyone, so whatever this means to you, make the appropriate changes and you’ll get there.

Save More, Spend Less

After all of the holiday spending, many of us are looking to get our finances in order in the New Year. For some, this means getting out of debt, for others this could mean building up a savings account. It’s important to set a budget – this can go as far as weekly, monthly and yearly. Be sure to keep track of your spending and cut spending habits that aren’t serving your ultimate goal. Maybe cut out an expense or two that you could do without. Sometimes a little bit goes a long way.

More Time for Yourself

Often times, we get so caught up in our routine and maybe doing things for others that we neglect ourselves a little. It’s time to change that. Putting yourself first makes you happy, which leads to making others happy as well. Set time for yourself to do what you love to do. Whether that’s taking a walk, disconnecting from your phone, trying a fitness class, reading or writing, make sure to actually do these things. Practice self-care to lead you to your best self.

Travel More

There’s no better time than now to see the places you want to see. Maybe there’s a destination you want to cross off your list. Set some time aside to determine where you want to go and when. Then, it’s time to do your research. Be proactive and on the lookout for flights and when the best time is to travel there. The fun part comes next – asking for recommendations and looking into the must-see places, attractions, restaurants and hotels. Take this a step further and create an itinerary for your trip for smooth sailing. This way, you can relax and enjoy every minute.

More Quality Time

Quality time spent with loved ones is priceless. You could never put a measure on those moments that you capture in your head for the rest of your life. Make this a priority by making a real effort to see the ones you love. Taking this a step further, when you do spend time together, be present. Don’t allow any distractions, don’t think about only what you’re going to say next in a conversation, be an active listener. Be fully in the now. This will allow your time spent to be meaningful, and genuinely, of quality.

The ultimate key to achieving any and all of these resolutions? Stay positive. Change your perspective. Approach everything with an optimistic point of view – it will make a world of difference. Happy 2020!