Do these five activities to start the new year right:

1. Get a physical check-up

   Schedule a physical check-up with your doctor. They can review your health history. They will also check your blood pressure, cholesterol level, and your bone and heart health. Get a check-up even if you don’t feel sick. The doctor will give you tips on how to be healthy throughout the year.

2. Think of your successes then make new goals

   Write down what you’ve achieved in the past year. Seeing your strengths will boost your self-confidence. Set new goals to build on your successes. Continue to improve your English, build your finances, and strengthen your health, career, and relationships.

3. Get things in order

   Clean your house. Tidy up your closet. Throw away things you don’t need (or donate to charity). You increase efficiency when everything is organized at your home and office. Clean your office desk and computer. Group the files on your computer desktop and keep them in folders. This will make you computer run faster. Remove files you don’t need. Name each folder to help you find files quickly. You can even move all your folders to My Documents.

4. Pay your debts

   Pay your credit card balance. Pay higher than the minimum if you can’t afford to pay the entire amount. Stick to a budget and save money. Read 8 habits that will help you avoid getting into debt for more tips.

5. Keep your mind healthy

   • Forgive yourself and others – Forgiving is like cleaning your mind. It allows you to let go of all the bad feelings. Forgive people who have hurt you. Forgive yourself too, for your faults. Tell yourself that you will do better next year.
   • Get rid of negativity – Talk to someone about your worries. Speak to your priest, counsellor, or close friend.
   • Make time for self-care – Go to a spa, meditate, or pray. Relax your mind. Get enough sleep. Treat yourself with kindness and respect. Avoid self-criticism.
   • Be creative – Get a hobby that you enjoy. Paint, knit or write. Volunteer and share your talents. Train your brain to be positive and active.
   • Take walks outside – Take short walks outside even in winter. This will reduce your stress. Sunlight can also boost your mood.

Have a fantastic year ahead!
 
Article updated December 15, 2023.
 
Sources: 4 ways to get into a positive mindset for the new year, Lisa Evans, Entrepreneur; It’s ‘Clean out your computer’ day. Here’s how to declutter your computer in 4 steps, Chris Ambrose, Monster; Mental Health: Coping with stress, Health Canada; and 9 ways you can improve your mental health today, Patricia Harteneck, PhD. MBA, Psychology Today. Accessed November 27, 2018.