At the end of 2019, maybe you drew up a list of dreams and wishes for a better 2020, coming up with goals that you would like to achieve in the new year. But before long, Covid-19 descended on the world (and your plans) and consumed them into a black hole. This year, you're careful to not be overly optimistic.
While social isolation and cancelled flights have chipped away at our morale, we should all take a moment to appreciate the fact that we have made it through despite the tough times. And now that the year is almost over, It’s time to take life back into our own hands with these 5 New Year resolutions that no pandemic can touch.
This year, I will set aside time to disconnect
There seems to be an endless stream of bad news rolling out everyday on the media, yet we’re still glued to our phones. Ever heard of doom scrolling? The act of consuming a large amount of negative media can be detrimental to our mental health. This year, aim to set aside time disconnect from the internet. If you need some help, there are many great apps and websites that help you manage your social media consumption:
- Mindful Browsing: This Google Chrome plugin will alert you of mindless browsing and help you reconnect with nature. Simply key in the websites you’d want to stop spending so much time on, and when you try to access them, the plugin will prompt you with other ways to use your time.
- Flipd: Block yourself from using certain apps on your phone for a specified amount of time.
- Forest: Plant virtual trees and earn coins when you disconnect for your set amount of time. These coins can then be spent to help plant real trees around the world!
- WindowSwap: Take a fun peek out of windows from all around the globe and help ease the wanderlust in your heart.
This year, I will rest more mindfully
Before Covid-19, home was a place for rest, play, and relaxation. This year, our living spaces have taken on new roles – a perhaps unexpected effect of the new norm.
With WFH, the lines can blur between work and play. It’s easy to find yourself working into the night, or checking your emails while you're in bed. You may even find yourself worn out before the week is through.
In the coming year, make deliberate attempts to ensure that your mind and body get the rest they need by drawing clear boundaries between work, rest and play. Practice discipline by turning off your work laptop punctually. Similarly, don't give in to the temptations of Netflix when you're supposed to be working. Have a clear timetable on what you're supposed to be doing throughout the day.
This year, I will cultivate a new hobby at home
Given all the time we now spend at home, picking up a new hobby wouldn’t be the worst way to pass the time. Hobbies can be extremely fulfilling and can also give you something to look forward to, without having to leave the house.
The possibilities are endless – pick up a new instrument, gardening or baking, or perhaps learn a new skill like calligraphy, knitting or painting. While you cultivate your new hobby, you may even be inspired to merge work and play by starting a home-based business and generating a side income.
This year, I will tend to my family and friendships
It's only when we were forced to be hunkered down at home, away from our family and friends that we really started to treasure all the times we were able to do something simple like sitting and having a meal at a table together. Absence sure makes the heart grow fonder.
While large social gatherings of more than eight are still off limits for the moment, nothing stands in the way of a simple text message or call. If someone you know is going through a hard time, send coffee, dessert or a gift you know they’ll like. Likewise, don’t hesitate to reach out when you are in need of comfort, because the ones who love you want to be there for you.
This year, I will prioritize my fitness and health
Regardless of how many times you’ve tried (and failed), make this year the year that it sticks. No need for expensive gym memberships – if there's anything this year has taught us, it's that all we need is just a bit of determination. Start small – a walk around the block, or follow along a yoga video at home.
Wherever you are on your health and fitness journey, it’s never too late to start. Most importantly, don’t beat yourself up for the days when life gets in the way of your exercise routine. Take it as an opportunity to rest, and return to it the next day.
With so many things still beyond our control, setting simple resolutions that are much more achievable can make all the difference to our happiness and mental wellbeing. Let's make 2021 a truly Happy New Year.