10 Things to Do Before 2018 Ends That Will Help You Kick Off 2019

With 2019 rapidly approaching, it’s almost time to make those annual resolutions we try so hard to keep. But why wait until January 1? There’s still plenty of time this year to make some changes in your life. 

No, not a total overhaul — just some little fixes can go a long way in improving your overall well-being. Here are some things you should do before 2018 ends that will help you kick off 2019 as your best self.


Unsubscribe and Unplug

Everyone is always talking about unplugging — and for good reason. Our brains need a break from the never-ending flood of information that comes from our gadgets. 

Even if you can’t live without your phone, take a few smaller steps. Start with your e-mail: It’s time to unsubscribe from all those lists you’ve gotten yourself on over the years. Especially for people looking to cut back on their spending, it’s a lot easier to resist the temptation to buy when you’re not even aware of the sales.

If you're feeling antsy about being away from your beloved phone, try journaling, which has been proven to ease anxiety and help people sleep better.

Reconnect with Someone

It seems like everyone is too busy to catch up these days. How many times have you told someone “We need to get together!” and never followed through? No judgment. 

We’ve all done it. Luckily there’s still some time left in the year to make good on your promise. There’s a reason the New Year’s anthem starts with “Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never thought upon."

Get on the Instant Pot Bandwagon

The set it and forget it method means even the most inexperienced cooks can create delicious meals and healthy meals. You can feed the whole family or just yourself and get some meal prep done for the week.

Discover a New Podcast

If video killed the radio star, streaming services revived them. Audio programming has been having a resurgence and podcasts offer something for everyone. It's the ideal entertainment for your daily commute or long journey to your holiday destinations. Pop on your headphones and find one that fits your mood.

Get Centered

December is a time for giving, but as the year winds down it's important to take some time for yourself. Find a way to let out some stress. Spending some time at the gym can kill two birds with one stone ... improving your physical and mental health. 

Maybe even just dedicate a quiet corner in your house to finding your zen when you have a free moment. Nobody wants to start off a new year with the baggage they carried around in the previous one. Find that peace of mind that'll give you a clean slate.

Volunteer 18 hours of your time

Time is one of the most valuable things in the world, why not give a little to a good cause? Do you know someone looking for someone to walk their dog? Is there a local shelter you can get in touch with to see what they need? Maybe a community garden that needs weeding? People are always looking for help from folks who will give it.

Read 8 books

Dust off that old library card, log into that kindle account, visit your local bookstore and pick up something new.

Attend a local event in your community.

Does your town have the coolest art fair around, but you've never been? Is there a local farmers market that you've never seen? Check your community calendar or event pages often, you never know what you might find.

Visit 18 new restaurants and coffee shops

Do you feel like you and your family or friends are constantly eating at the same restaurant, drinking the same cup of coffee, shopping in the same stores? Branch out, find something new.

Say "thank you" more than "sorry"

Thank you for existing. Thank you for sticking around. Thank you for making me a better human.  Thank you for reading this article.

 

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