HANGZHOU FAMILY
Ditch Boring Resolutions: Bringing In 2019 The Unconventional Way How many times have you made a boring New Year’s Resolution that peters out halfway through January? It’s time to throw out the mundane ‘I’ll try to go to the gym more!’ Lisa Delanty brings you a few challenges that you don’t have to stick to all year, and that may actually change the way you think.
1. Be Vain.
Time required: 30 seconds in the morning. Criticising and disliking your body is psychologically harmful to you and those around you. So instead of picking out your worst features, snap a quick shot of your gorgeous or handsome self in the morning, and pick out the things you like about the way you look. Optional extension: channel your inner Beyoncé while singing the hit song, “I woke up like this!”
2. Go Basic.
Time required: Zero extra. Every time you think of ordering a fancy latte or cappuccino, grab an Americano or fresh brew of the day! It’s much better for your wallet, not to mention your waistline. Simplifying your life is actually incredibly satisfying. Try eating plain foods; drinking only water; wearing no accessories; clearing the things you don’t use out
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of your house. Realising what you don’t need is incredibly liberating!
3. Share your talents.
Time required: Up to you! Get out on social media! Film a ‘how to’ video tutorial of something you really enjoy such as cooking, dancing, or makeup tips to post on Youtube, or start an Instagram account logging a fitness journey, or your travels. Having a platform to update really encourages you to experience more.
4. The Poverty Line Challenge. Time required: 1 week of eating differently. In a life of easy access to almost everything we want, it’s easy to forget that a saddening percentage of the world’s population live on less than $2 per day. Challenge yourself to buy food for one week with $14 (96RMB). It will really open your eyes.
5. Ditch the Mall.
Time required: Zero extra. Today’s world of shopping is dominated by a few chains, and isn’t it boring to know you’re wearing the same thing as everyone else? Ditch the big shops, and limit yourself to secondhand clothes shops or boutiques. Your look will be a lot more interesting, and shopping will be a cooler experience than just running to H&M.
6. Put the Phone Down.
Time required: 5 minutes per message. Instead of sending a quick text, take out a pen and paper and handwrite a thoughtful message to a friend, relative, or loved one. Put it in an envelope and seal it with a kiss! It will make somebody’s day, and make a real change from the instant-messaging culture of the modern world.
