(BPT) – It’s always a good idea to commit to improving your well-being or creating healthy habits in the new year, but if you approach your resolutions as something you want to do versus something you should do, you’re much more likely to follow through on your goals. So, why not rethink the whole new year’s resolution premise? What have you always wanted to do, but never given yourself permission to spend time pursuing? Here are a couple nontraditional resolutions that you might actually want to stick to.
1. Dance like nobody’s watching
In the comfort of your own living room, you don’t have to worry about what you look like – literally, no one will be watching – so it’s easy to learn how to dance.
Look for YouTube videos with tutorials on dancing and see what catches your interest! Whether it’s an old-fashioned Charleston or the Woah, you can enjoy the thrill of movement, alone or with your partner. You could even try a new dance each month to keep it fresh all year long – there are so many types, and there are guides all over the internet!
Not only is dancing a ton of fun, it’s also a great form of exercise.
2. Learn a new language
Exploring a new language is enriching and fun – and it also keeps your brain active while allowing you to explore other cultures. Already know a bit about a language, but haven’t put your skills to good use since high school or college? What better resolution than to brush up on learning a language?
Becoming fluent is a great way to boost your confidence, and it’s easy to get started with apps like Rosetta Stone. Rosetta Stone helps you get ready for real-world conversations by using a ‘Dynamic Immersion’ approach with exercises that take advantage of the brain’s natural language processing ability. In short, that means it helps you learn fast.
Rosetta Stone offers 25 different languages for you to choose from. Their program is mobile-friendly, so keeping up with your learning will be a breeze.
3. Boost your career
Looking to advance your career? These days, classes, training courses and certifications are right at your fingertips. Where to start, though?
First, figure out what skills would help you develop an edge in the job market, allowing you to move ahead or even change careers. Second, seek out experts and companies in that field who can point you toward learning resources.
Better yet, consider combining two resolutions into one. Learning a new language is one sure way to boost your resume. What countries does your company do business with? Who are your company’s business partners and customers? Learning their language can be a great way to stand out from the crowd when it comes to the next round of promotions.
4. Plan future adventures
Yes, most travel plans are on hold right now – especially international travel. But there’s no reason you can’t make a resolution to plan your next overseas adventure.
Where have you always wanted to go? Research the area and make a plan to learn more about the geography, cuisine and history of that region. Prepare yourself for your future trip by learning how to speak like a local, understand the signage, and find your way around easily! Having time to plan and practice means you’ll be that much more prepared when you get there.
5. Create culinary masterpieces
You can start with a modest goal – like making more plant-based dishes or using healthier cooking methods. But why not expand your skills? Thanks to cable channels devoted to cooking, plus countless how-to’s on Instagram and YouTube, you can find classes and tutorials on making just about anything that sounds tasty – right in your own kitchen. Even better, if you’re planning a trip (see #4) in the future, why not match up your culinary ambitions with your plans, and try making one of the signature dishes native to your next destination?
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be all about putting yourself through grueling new regimens. Find resolutions that bring real enjoyment and meaning to your life, and they’ll stick with you for even longer.
