Tick tock … tick tock … The clock is counting down to the new year, which means you don’t have much time to decide how your 2025 will be better than your 2024.
Thanks to the Babylonians — who during a feast honoring their gods “pledged to repay debts and return borrowed items” — we are still making New Year’s resolutions 4,000 years later.
Not everyone pledges to lose weight or become tidier, however. Some people think outside the box and make vows many might find a bit strange. If you’re looking for something new to add to your resolution list, here are some ideas.
Collect airsick bags: Bringing home souvenirs is a common practice when traveling, whether it’s a refrigerator magnet from Philadelphia or a small statue of Michelangelo’s David from Florence. Why be so predictable, though? Imagine the conversations you can have explaining your collection of airsick bags from each plane you flew on during your journeys.
Alphabet eating: This one could be fun with your kids. Start with the letter A. That day, you can eat only foods that begin with that letter. Applesauce for breakfast, Ahi tuna and avocado for dinner. You get the idea. Work your way through the alphabet (or until the kids get bored with the idea).
Add some sparkle: Mashable once suggested you sew one sequin to every piece of clothing you own. Let people wonder why. Were there once more shiny discs on your sweater or is it a reminder of a wild evening out?
Extreme ironing: If you’re one of those people who still irons but hates it more than changing a baby’s messy diaper, this might be for you. Extreme ironing is ridding your clothing of wrinkles just about anywhere but your house. Rappelling down a mountain? Sure. Paddle boarding? Why not. If you get good enough, you might try out for the world championships.
Become multilingual: Sounds harmless enough, right? Not if you learn only swear words. We’re not recommending you start an international incident, but knowing how to express your frustration or anger in a language others don’t speak could come in handy. And if you’re ever stuck in one of those meetings where everyone has to share something unusual about themselves, you’ll have the best answer in the room.
Whatever you decide, don’t get upset if by February you’ve forgotten all about your resolutions. According to Drive Research, only 9% of Americans keep theirs.
About the Author
