12 Resolutions for 2021

Let's face it: 2020 was a tough year for everyone. The pandemic hit hard and tested even the most resilient individuals, families and communities. Because of this, you probably just aren't feeling the typical weight loss or self-improvement resolutions—and that's OK.

We're in unprecedented times, which means the same old resolutions may not fit. Consider one of these ideas instead to make 2021 your rebound year and even better than your 2020 self could ever imagine.

Maintain Your Health

We're not talking about not catching COVID (although that's a good goal to have—wear a mask!), but rather maintaining your current health. Staying home and isolated has been tough, and it's natural to have put on a few pounds over the last 10 months. As long as you're happy and healthy, you're doing just fine in our book. If you want to lose weight, that's great! But it's also great if you're doing fine just the way you are.

Do one Thing Each Day That Makes You Happy

It seems simple, but creating little sparks of joy each day can be the difference in making it through the pandemic. Whether it's watching an episode of your favorite TV show, listening to your go-to pump-up song or buying flowers for your bedside table, finding little things to spark joy each and every day will make more of a positive impact on your day-to-day than you might realize.

Stay in Touch With Friends and Family

There's a good chance you haven't seen your family or spent quality time with friends since at least March. Set a goal for 2021 to make an effort to stay connected. Set up a weekly virtual game night with your cousins or watch the latest episode of the Bachelor with your college roommate over FaceTime. Simply find ways to connect and stay connected with the people you love and know you'll be able to see them again in no time.

Try Something New

If you're working from home, you likely have more time to try new things than ever before. Sure, you baked that...unsuccessful loaf of bread back in April, and the scarf you attempted to knit it still sitting half-finished in your living room chair, but new years are a time for new things. Whether you give your 2020 projects a second try or come up with a new current obsession, make a vow to try something completely new in 2021. Who knows? You may just come to love it.

Support Your Local Community

A lot of people struggled through 2020 and are likely going to struggle through 2021 as well. If you have the means, make an effort to support your local businesses, neighbors and community members so we can all make it through the hard times together. Whether that means getting take out from your favorite neighborhood diner once every couple weeks (and tipping well if able!) or offering to pick up groceries for the older couple down the street, think of ways you can help your community get through the pandemic together and stronger than ever.

Leave Your Comfort Zone

Similar to trying new things, vow to do things that make you uncomfortable in 2021. This could be continuing to have tough conversations about race or maybe deciding to train for and run a marathon. The sky's the limit, and only you know what will force you out and help you grow.

Eliminate the Monotony

In 2020, a lot of us did a whole lot of nothing, which for a lot of people was much needed and felt great. However, the days can get monotonous. In 2021, even if you're still stuck at home, think of ways to spice up your day-to-day. Maybe you treat yourself to an online fitness class or order donuts. Maybe you take a road trip to a not-too-far state park to enjoy the great outdoors. Maybe you connect with a neighbor to take socially distanced walks around the block. Whatever you come up with, don't just let the days go by and drag on until life gets back to normal. Because what even is normal anymore anyway?

Focus on the Environment

If you're looking for ways beyond simply recycling or not using plastic water bottles to help the environment, 2021 is the perfect opportunity to make some simple swaps that will have a big impact. You may think environmentally friendly products are expensive and not worth the hassle, but it only takes a little research and a few key changes to make a difference. Switch to reusable grocery bags, implement no meat Mondays or even switch to bamboo toothbrushes and bar soap. The changes are up to you, and you can feel good knowing you're doing your part.

Make a Routine

It may seem counterintuitive to eliminating the monotony, but if you're struggling with being productive while working from home, finding a routine is key. Even if you simply block off time for different tasks or keep an up-to-the minute rundown for your entire to-do list, you'll find yourself staying on track more easily than before.

Volunteer

Thanks to stay-at-home orders, many places that often utilize volunteers are struggling with reduced staff. If you feel comfortable helping out, there are plenty of options to do so. Some volunteer options are even active, such as being a dog walker/runner for your local shelter.

Practice Mindfulness

You may have tried and written off meditation in the past, but that's not exactly what we're talking about here. Mindfulness can be as easy as thinking more positively and more intentionally. Rather than saying you're stuck at home, why not rephrase it to you get to stay home and think of all the benefits of doing so. Be intentional with your actions, only choosing to do things that progress your goals forward rather than set you back.

Get or Stay Active

It's a wonder what exercise can do for our mental health. Simply working out for just 30 minutes a day can make all the difference. Whether you're feeling in a rut thanks to staying home all day every day or are looking for a way to get your mind off of life's stressors, find an active activity that works for you and get after it! You'll be amazed at how fulfilled and energized you feel afterward.

SOURCE: Active.com

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The Summer Go Bag: A Tiny Kit That Saves the Day

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The Summer Go Bag: A Tiny Kit That Saves the Day Summer has a way of making “quick little outings” turn into full-blown adventures. A trip to the pool becomes dinner on the way home. A Saturday errand turns into a stop at the park. A lake day somehow requires 47 items, three snacks, and at least one person asking, “Did anyone bring sunscreen?” Enter: The Summer Go Bag . It doesn’t have to be fancy. It doesn’t have to be perfectly organized. It’s just a small tote, backpack, bin, or canvas bag you keep stocked with the little things that make summer life easier. Think of it as your warm-weather backup plan. What to put in your Summer Go Bag: Sunscreen + bug spray Because nothing ruins a good day faster than realizing you needed both about two hours ago. Reusable water bottles Keep one or two empty bottles in the bag, or toss in a couple of bottles of water before you leave. A small first-aid kit Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain reliever, allergy medicine, and any must-have family basics. Phone charger or power bank Especially helpful for road trips, long days out, or those “I swear my phone was at 42% five minutes ago” moments. Wet wipes + tissues For sticky hands, spilled drinks, mystery car messes, and every parent/grandparent/aunt/uncle who has learned the hard way. A lightweight towel or blanket Great for parks, wet seats, surprise splash pads, outdoor concerts, or impromptu picnics. A few snacks Granola bars, crackers, trail mix, fruit snacks — anything that can survive a little heat and prevent a hunger-related family incident. Plastic bags or a small trash bag For wet swimsuits, muddy shoes, snack wrappers, or anything you don’t want touching the rest of your car. Spare sunglasses or a hat Simple, useful, and always appreciated when someone forgets theirs. Pet basics, if applicable A leash, collapsible water bowl, waste bags, and a small towel can make pet-friendly outings much easier. Where to keep it: Your car is usually the easiest spot, especially if you’re often on the go. If your vehicle gets too hot, keep heat-sensitive items like sunscreen, medicine, and snacks inside the house and toss them in before you leave. You can also make a smaller version for: Pool bags Lake bags Sports practices Road trips Grandkid days Dog park visits The real trick: Restock when you get home The Go Bag only works if it’s ready when you need it. After a busy weekend, take two minutes to replace what you used: snacks, wipes, sunscreen, bandages, water bottles, or plastic bags. That tiny reset makes the next outing so much easier. Summer should feel a little more spontaneous — and a little less like you’re packing for an expedition every time you leave the house. A simple Go Bag won’t solve everything, but it might just save the day.