5 Things You Can Do to Kickstart 2021

After an especially eventful year of uncertainties, many are keen to hit the reset button. The New Year brings about a wave of motivation and is the perfect opportunity to start afresh.  

Whether you are looking to instil a new hobby or try out a new activity, here are 5 things you can do to kickstart your 2021.

Having a list of resolutions have become a tradition to welcome the New Year but it is common for them to be forgotten within a couple of months. To increase your chances of fulfilling them, create a list of realistic and achievable goals. Set specific targets which can be easily tracked, such as read one new book a month or jog at least twice a week instead of just "reading and exercising more".

One tip is to start with easier goals and slowly build on them with more challenging ones. Setting the momentum in the beginning will help keep you moving forward, such that the eventual goal would not seem as unattainable. You can also set check points along the way to your final target to keep track of your progress throughout the year.

What better way to start afresh than with a cleaner and more organised space? After all, the environment directly impacts our mood and productivity. Take a weekend to declutter and sort the things that take up space but not utilised in the past year. If you find throwing things out difficult, enlist the help of a relative or good friend to accompany you on this Marie Kondo journey.

You can also take this opportunity to redecorate your workspace by rearranging your items or even investing in a desk organiser. With a refreshed environment, this can help reset your thinking and provide a fresh perspective of what 2021 has in store for you.

Embark on a more active lifestyle in the new year by incorporating some exercises into your daily routine. Kick things off by simply sitting less and moving more, especially for those who are working from home. Set alarms that will remind yourself to take a quick stroll and choose to take the stairs instead of using the lift from time to time.

When you are up for something more, you can increase the intensity with other workouts such as a 20-minute brisk walk or a quick 7-minute abs workout. Get a friend to come onboard as an exercise buddy – that way you can motivate each other to maintain the habit of exercising.

Your diet is equally important. To complement your exercise regime, ensure your diet is well-balanced and make a conscious effort to go for healthier options in each meal – whether it is choosing leaner cuts of meat, reducing sugar intake in your drinks or ensuring your meals have some greens.

You can also try cooking your own meals at home to have control over what is going in your food. Not only will you be eating healthier, you may also end up saving money as well. With your health in check, you will look and feel better in no time.

Spending time doing an enjoyable activity that is not attached to work commitments allows you to take your mind of the demands of daily life. With a refreshed mindset, the new year is an opportune time to rediscover a hobby that you may have neglected.  

Another great way to kick off the year is to pick up something new that has always interest you – it could be trying out a new recipe, enrolling in a dance class or even sewing and knitting. You may even surprise yourself by discovering a hidden talent!

For those looking to broaden their knowledge, consider learning a new language, listening to a podcast series or even watch a few Ted Talks videos in your free time.

Apart from engaging in all these activities, you should also cater time for self-care. Whether it’s the occasional indulgence in a wellness treatment or practising meditation, discover what works best for you to allow your mind, body and soul to rest and rejuvenate.

Consider creating a soothing end-of-day ritual you can look forward to. Try lighting scented candles or use aroma diffuser to create a soothing environment at home or pamper yourself with a face mask, body scrub or a long bath to relax your mind and body. It also helps to set aside your devices an hour before bedtime, to ensure you get a better rest at night.