Check out these five tactics to spice up your New Year and break up the monotony.
1. Change your work life or change your job.
Work consumes a lot of your time and can be a huge source of stress. If you find yourself dreading to go to work, or you are overcome with stress, it might be time for a career change or to simply take a look at what else is out there. This could be changing the ways that you interact with your co-workers and taking more time to enjoy conversation with them. It can be especially important if you work at your desk for most of the day, or are on the road often, and feel isolated from others. If you find that the issue goes beyond just your daily work habits and it's the job itself that has you stuck in a rut then it might be time to explore your options. In some cases, adding a side gig or new outlet you enjoy is all it takes to fulfill the missing piece.
2. Bring more positive people into your life.
Meeting new people is a good way to keep you on your toes, as well as force you out of your comfort zone. It will open the door to new experiences and the possibility of adding more positive influences in your life. It can be very hard to start a conversation with a stranger and can even feel forced and awkward, but the more you do it the better you will be at it and will soon become a natural occurrence in your life.
3. Start a new habit.
Finding a new outlet or developing a new habit is a great way to freshen up your schedule and add a new aspect to you day-to-day. It doesn't necessarily have to be a health-oriented habit either. It can be a change in your routine or an addition to your weekends.
This can be any change that makes you feel fulfilled. Here are a few to consider:
- Start a weekly or monthly group outing to a favorite restaurant or activity.
- Go on an evening run.
- Read a chapter of a book every night before bed or joining a local book club.
- Do yoga in the morning.
- Create your own side business.
- Get out and volunteer.
4. Plan a trip.
Planning a trip within the upcoming New Year is a great way to add a little excitement to your life, while giving you something to look forward to, and even a reason to save your monies! Space out your vacation planning so it doesn't overwhelm you, and the novelty of adding new activities and destinations will fuel you with anticipation up until the trip.
5. Do something to face a fear.
There's nothing like a little adrenaline rush to make things interesting. Try doing something that makes you scared or nervous on a monthly basis. Not only will this help lessen your fear, but it will give you confidence to branch out and try new things. This could be simple as hosting a party at your home, rock climbing, going skiing, or maybe just going to the movies alone.
No one wants to be stuck in a post-holiday rut, so start your New Year off on the right foot by refreshing your schedule and adding a little spice to your life.