We’re all familiar with the usual New Year Resolutions that people make in January: exercise more, eat healthy food, keep your home clean, be more productive. While there’s nothing wrong with these resolutions, we shouldn’t forget to have fun! Doing things that bring us joy is good for the soul – and as a bonus, research shows happiness leads to better health, improved relationships, and less stress.
Here are 12 fun New Year resolutions to try in 2023 for a more joyful and happy life.
- Learn something new this year
Henry Ford once said, ‘anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young’. Is there a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, or a new skill you’d like to learn? Take the leap this year and give it a go! If you need support, chat to your support coordinator or support worker. They can help you learn new skills, or start a hobby that improves your wellbeing.
- Get the support you need
A little support can go a long way towards improving your quality of life. If you are struggling with everyday tasks, take the step of applying for an aged care assessment, so you can access in home care services in your local area. Home Caring provides individualised Home Care Packages to help older people enjoy independence at home, as well as NDIS services for people living with disability
- Enjoy a hobby you’ve forgotten
Is there a hobby you used to enjoy, but haven’t picked up in a long while? This year, make time to do your favourite things, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, drawing, doing puzzles or playing a sport you used to enjoy. If you need support, chat to your support coordinator, carer or family member and ask for help to get started.
- Get out in nature more
Studies show that being in nature improves your wellbeing, encourages exercise and reduces stress. Immerse yourself in nature more regularly this year with activities that get you out in the sunshine. If you’re an adventurous type, try bushwalking, geo-caching or kayaking. Prefer something closer to home? Spending time in the garden or trips to the local park are an excellent way of getting your daily dose of nature.
- Laugh more
A life filled with joy and laughter is one that is well lived. Find ways to laugh more this year, whether through watching your favourite comedy, reading a funny book, or spending time with friends. One way to inject more joy in your life is to spend time with animals, as nothing brings on warm feelings like playing with a favourite pet.
- Take a break when you need it
Taking time out to recharge is so important, especially if you’re caring for a loved one who is elderly or living with a disability. Home Caring offers respite care for older people and NDIS participants, so their carers have time for other activities. We provide individualised care in your own home or out in the community, giving you peace of mind knowing your loved one is in safe hands.
- Learn how to cook a new cuisine
Cooking can be lots of fun and an opportunity to tap into your creative side. This year, learn how to cook a new dish, whether it’s a fancy dessert, cultural cuisine, easy dinner option, or food that holds strong memories for you. Your family and friends – and your taste buds – will thank you!
- Get creative
Exercise the creative part of your brain with fun activities like painting, ceramics, photography or craft projects. If you need ideas or support to get started, chat to a family member or carer and ask for assistance. There may also be classes in your local area which you can try.
- Go on a trip
This year, plan a trip you can look forward to! Whether it’s a longer holiday, day trip, or excursion somewhere new, make time to have an adventure you’ll never forget. If you are a NDIS participant receiving disability care, you may be able to access support for travelling, so you can stay safe and have a good time.
- Start doing exercise you enjoy
Doing exercise doesn’t always have to mean slogging it out on the treadmill. This year, explore different types of exercise and find something you really enjoy. Fun activities like dance classes, yoga, sailing lessons, aqua aerobics sessions or bushwalking with friends are a great way to get exercise and improve your health while having lots of fun.
- Join a new class or group
The start of a new year is a great time to join a new social group or class in your local area. There are many community groups where you can enjoy your favourite hobbies with other people, whether it’s running, craft, or a team sport. You might even make new friends as you meet people who share the same interest as you.
- Personalise your space
Does the home you live in need sprucing up? It doesn’t take much to brighten your space – try displaying some of your favourite photos, getting a couple of indoor plants, or re-painting a small piece of furniture in your favourite colour. If you are living in NDIS housing, chat to your support coordinator about ways you can personalise your space so that it feels like home.
Home Caring provides quality person-centred care for seniors and people living with disability. Our experienced teams provide support services in their local area, helping people in the community access the support they need to live independently at home. For more information, please get in touch with our friendly team.
