2021 is well underway and many people have big expectations for the new
year. Normally, New Year’s resolutions revolve around self-improvement and
enhancing our own abilities; so, this year, challenge yourself to learn a new
skill, explore a new pastime, or ingest some knowledge that will expand your
mind and your understanding of the world. Here are some great suggestions for
yourself, your home, and your business endeavours.
Learn
a New Language
Unsurprisingly, learning a new language is something that many people say
they aspire to. Traveling to a new country or experiencing different cultures
at home is enjoyable, and learning a new language really helps to take it to
the next level. When you become proficient in a foreign language, you have
countless opportunities open up for you, like expanding your career or enjoying
different films or novels.
If learning a new language sounds interesting to you, luckily there are more
ways than ever to get started. Aside from multiple websites that are
specifically centered around learning a language, you’ll also find many support
groups online in places like Reddit or Facebook. Apps are also becoming a
popular method, with options like Duolingo free to use and returning great
results.
Try
Your Hand at Table Games
As we get older, it becomes more and more important to test ourselves by
learning new skills.
For anyone interested in a truly brain-expanding challenge, look no further
than the mentally stimulating game of blackjack. There are many different variants which make
blackjack so popular, but they all revolve around quick math skills and
probabilities. While some people may turn to simpler games when they want
a fun activity to enjoy, blackjack has proven mental benefits. These include
expanding your memory, and building your mental processing powers.
Enhance
Your Cooking
Cooking is one of those crucial life skills that you should never stop
building. Admittedly with the constraints of everyday life many people neglect
this skill over time, but rest assured, with a little effort it can be an
immensely rewarding skill and hobby. It’s also a great way to become more
health focused as you can accurately measure your calories and cut out fatty
oils. Learning new recipes and cooking methods is the first step. You can then
explore your tastes and discover that you enjoy a lot more things than you
originally thought.
Designing
Websites
With programs like Wordpress and alternatives like Wix, it’s now easier than
ever to make your own website. This is great if you want
to pick up blogging as a hobby, have a website for your business, or even
create your own portfolio. As a photographer, or a journalist, having your own
online portfolio that exists outside of social media is an essential part of
looking professional. Building websites can be just a fun activity to
enjoy in your spare time, or even a full fledged side business.
Get
in Touch With Your Artistic Side
There is nothing more gratifying than enjoying your artistic side and
learning a new skill as a hobby. We all have some artistic capabilities, so
don’t be afraid to try something new or come back to an old skill. Maybe you
have a passion for music and would benefit from learning the piano or guitar.
Or perhaps painting and drawing is more your style. There are also great
activities like crocheting and knitting that are not only a great way to relax
after a hard day, but also provide you with some excellent winter wear to
enjoy after you finish a project.
Public
Speaking
Public speaking is often cited as a valuable
yet overlooked skill for business. To most people, the idea of it is
terrifying but if you can overcome your fears and challenge yourself to master
the art of public speaking, you may find some new avenues open for you.
Stress
Management
Stress has more of an effect on health than most people realize. If you are
constantly plagued by stress, it can be detrimental to you both physically and
mentally in the long run. Learning some stress management techniques can be one
of the most important things you master this year. Common methods include deep
breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and many more. Find something that works
for you and practice it to conquer stress in your life.
