21 Ways to Make 2021 Your Year

Ring in the New Year with realistic resolutions! If you’re hoping to make 2021 your year, Project MORE has some suggestions to start you off on the right foot.

1. 1. 1. 1. Establish a (new) routine.

            Start with small things, like going to bed on time. Establish a routine where these new habits make sense.

         2. Eat with the environment in mind.

            Our food choices impact the environment. This year, be mindful when you shop. Eating local when possible, buying food with less packaging, choosing sustainable and antibiotic-free products, and trying to limit consumption of beef are all ways that you can make positive changes this year.

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      1. Journal daily.

         Try keeping a daily journal! Write down your goals and the things that you’re thankful for. When you look back at the end of the year, you can see all that you’ve accomplished and the things that have had meaning for you in 2021.

      2. Be more adventurous.

         Do something new! Challenge yourself to go outside your comfort zone by doing something new each month. You may fall in love with a new hobby or discover your next favorite dinner recipe.

      3. Love yourself.

         Make it a goal to show yourself more kindness. Make a designated “self love” jar and leave notes in it about why you’re great. If you accomplished something at work, write it down! If you’re wearing a cute outfit and it makes you feel strong, beautiful, and altogether awesome, make a note and add it to the jar! When you’re struggling, look back on all the amazing things you’ve done or amazing ways you’ve felt!

      4. Read more.

         Read more and support queer and local authors when possible. Use reading as a way to learn more about the stuff you already know or dig deeper into a subject you’re dying to know more about. Check out this list of books.

      5. Be an advocate.

         Be an advocate and get involved in supporting a cause you care about. Be more vocal on social media. Post links to useful information and educate those around you on the subjects that matter most.

      6. Reach out to loved ones.

         It’s hard to see people face-to-face these days, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t remain close. Try mailing hand written letters to friends and family or set up a time to hang out virtually! Sometimes all it takes is a simple text or a phone call to make somebody’s day.

      7. Be generous.

         While giving money is a great way to be generous, giving of your time, talents, or skills can be even more rewarding. Click here to see how you can give of your time with Project MORE.

      8. Get more organized.

         If you need a bit more order in your life, make it a New Year’s resolution to get and stay organized. Find a system that will work for you! If you have to change it 2, 3, or 4 times, that’s okay! Try asking others what has worked for them in the past and see how you can adapt it to fit your lifestyle.

      9. Set up an exercise routine.

         Get into a workout grove by setting attainable fitness goals for yourself. Make weekly or monthly check-ins to make sure they’re working for where you are at. If it’s more than you bargained for, dial it back. If you’re crushing it, re-evaluate and aim higher.

      10. Take time for mindfulness.

          Life is full of craziness. In 2021, make time to clear your schedule and sit with no distractions. Look inwardly and practice mindfulness.

      11. Be more creative.

          Create a productive space for yourself and let your imagination run wild. Try rearranging your furniture and adding decorations to get your creative juices flowing.

      12. Take care of your health.

          Set up your dentist and doctors appointments. Don’t let in-person doctor visits feel limiting, scary, or risky. Many doctors are doing virtual appointments now!

      13. Drink more water.

          Drinking water means better skin and better digestion. If you need to drink more water, get a water bottle that marks how much you drink throughout the day. If the bottle doesn’t help, there are apps that can remind you when to take a few sips. So, much should you drink? Everyone’s needs will vary based on their age, weight, activity level, and other factors.

      14. Be more mindful of your energy use.

          Make it a habit to turn off the lights when you leave the room. You’ll save energy and cut down on your electricity bill.

      15. Bring out your inner child.

          Looking at the world through the eyes of a child can help with positivity and empathy. Let go of your worries and fears by bringing out your inner child more frequently this year. Ask inquisitive questions, be bold, and show compassion to those around you.

      16. Listen better.

          Be patient and open to other people’s perspectives.

      17. Stay informed.

          Pay attention to local, national, and international news. Broaden your sources and remember to stay informed about issues that don’t directly affect you.

      18. Declutter your life.

          Get rid of the things you don’t need. Go through your closet and figure out what you no longer wear. If you have lightly used items, you can sell them online (yes, there are apps for that) or donate them to a local charity or donation center!

      19. Balance structure and spontaneity.

          While it is good to have order, make sure you have balance between order and spontaneous fun. Work hard, but when it’s time to let loose and go with the flow, make sure you stay open to the wondrous possibilities impromptu moments can offer.

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