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This post on how to finish the year strong is brought to you by Jason Goetz.
The weather is getting cooler and the days are getting darker, but that doesn’t mean you need to go into full hibernation mode. Now is the perfect time to get a jump start on goals for 2020, take some much-needed vacation or just catch up with loved ones. There are only a few months left of 2019, so keep reading below for tips on how to finish the year strong.
Set a New Fitness Goal
Working out is hard at any time of the year, but it’s especially a struggle when it’s cold and dark outside. But studies have shown that breaking a sweat not only boosts your mood, but it also helps your immune system fight back against the winter bugs.
Use this time of the year to set a new fitness goal. Options include improving your running pace, breaking a personal record or committing to a fitness schedule. You can also use this time to explore a new activity such as rock climbing or tai chi. Just keep moving, and the benefits will start piling up.
Use That Vacation Time
A study released in August found Americans left 768 million unused vacation days last year. If you were one of those people, then now is the time to make sure that time gets put to good use.
Travel experts all agree that late fall and winter are some of the best times to travel. Hotel rates and flights drop to nearly half of their summer prices. And places that are usually packed with tourists tend to clear out. Consider taking a weekend road trip to go hiking and camping, or explore what a nearby city has to offer. Just one night away from home can lead to unforgettable adventures.
Dust Off the Bookshelf
Winter is the perfect time to curl up with a good book. Use this season to finish an older read or start something brand new. For recommendations on what to read, try checking out the staff favorites at the local library. Another option is making a book list through the website “What Should I Read Next.”
If podcasts are more your thing, then take the time to finish saved items in the library. Once those are done then start a new podcast. There are about 700,000 active podcasts with millions of shows on everything from ghost stories to sports team discussions and cooking tips. If you have an interest in something, chances are a podcast exists.
Spend Time with Loved Ones
Life can get busy in an instant, making it hard to keep in touch with family and friends. Use the time left this year to reconnect with people you are closest to.
You can host a Friendsgiving or a white elephant party for some holiday fun. Or you can try making a family recipe with grandparents. Simple activities such as taking a walk outdoors or sitting around the dinner table can go a long way toward strengthening family bonds.
Get the House Winter Ready
If getting cold-weather gear involves setting off dust clouds, then it’s time to do some winter cleaning. Use this time to change out air filters, switch the direction of ceiling fans and clean out the fridge.
This is also a great time to winterize your vehicle before the temperatures drop. These could mean switching to winter tires for people in colder climates. If this is not necessary, then you should check tire pressure and change to winter windshield wipers. It is also important to pack a winter safety kit, so you can stay safe if the car experiences any trouble.
Refresh 2019 Resolutions
Don’t beat yourself up if there are still items left on the list of 2019 resolutions. Instead, think of how you can revamp the resolution for 2020.
Sometimes the best way to complete a resolution is by making it part of the routine. So if the resolution was to eat healthier, then try meal-prepping or cooking at the same time every week. If the goal was to save money, then try downloading an app to help you get used to budgeting. To learn a new language, set a time every day to practice.
The hardest part of a routine is the beginning. By getting started this year, you can ensure that everything will be in full swing once the ball drops in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
About The Author: Jayson Goetz
Jayson is a recent graduate from Arizona State University who lives in Phoenix. Being a lover of entrepreneurship and travel, he’s always ready to bust out his laptop and visit new places. He started writing in hope of sharing his experiences with fellow entrepreneurs and travel enthusiasts. Follow Jayson on Instagram: @jaysongoetzz
