Ten Things to Do This Month to Start the New Year.

Here we are starting a New Year. This is the time when everyone sits down and makes their New Years resolutions and vows to change things that didn’t work in 2014. Sometimes New Year Resolutions can be hard to keep and so instead of posting my resolutions I’ve decided to just go with ten things that I plan to do this month. 

 

1. Clean off your computer.

Start the new year off with a clean hard drive. As a blogger, my desktop is often cluttered with pictures I’ve saved or files that I’m editing. It often gets so bad that I can never see my actual desktop picture. Take an hour out of your day to either get organized or reorganize files and folders in such a way that will help your work flow a bit easier.

2. Create a Holiday budget.

Yes, I said a holiday budget. Christmas is usually a time of year where we realize how broke we really are. It’s also a time of year when we tend to spend more than we actually have. Even if you don’t have a lot of extra money to spare, setting aside as little as $10 a week will allow you to have a little over $500 to spend for the holidays. You can also start a Pinterest board where you preplan gifts that you can make on your own.

3. Clean out your closet.

Alright, it’s time to let go of that sweater that you haven’t worn for the past three years. Cleaning out your closet will help you to reevaluate what you own and also help you identify your style. I plan to donate at least five pair of shoes this month. A clean closet will also help you get dressed faster in the morning. Since your options are limited you don’t have time to rethink an outfit continually.

4. Pay off that Credit Card.

Stop paying the minimum and finally pay off that credit card you really don’t need. Each year Americans vow to get their financial houses in order yet they continue to hold on to the things that cause them trouble in the first place. If you can’t pay it off think of ways, you can throw more money at the balance. You can make your coffee at home instead of buying every morning, or you can skip dinner out with friends once a month. Every little bit helps.

5. Do Karaoke.

Hey, you may even make tips that you can put towards paying off your credit card! Karaoke is a great way to go out and have fun while not spending tons of money. You never know you may just get a record deal.

6. Volunteer.

This year I’ve already vowed to spend two weekends a month volunteering at my local animal shelter. Volunteering is a great way to give back if you can’t afford to donate monetarily. There are several organizations that could use your help. Besides, you never know when you may be that person in need one day.

7. Create a vision board!

Vision boards are a great way to lay out all your goals for the year in front of you. By creating a vision board, you are constantly reminded of the things you want to see happen in your life. This in turn should motivate you to go out and make those things a reality.

8. Take a Class.

Head down to your local community college and sign up to take a class to learn a new skill. I’m not saying get a new degree, but hey it might be fun. Take a cooking class or sign up for sewing lessons. These classes are a great way for you to meet new people and learn a new skill.

9. Plan an at home Spa Day.

Most of the time the shower is more convenient than taking a relaxing bath. Now days people don’t have the time just to sit and relax in a tub full of warm water. This month take the time out to plan your personal spa day at home. Light candles pour a glass of wine and grab the stack of magazines you’ve meant to read or that book you’ve been planning to finish. After your bath give yourself a mani/pedi and facial. Take this time to

10. Smile.