Unique New Year’s resolutions you might not have considered

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While “losing weight” and “saving money” are very popular New Year’s resolutions, there is an absolute ton of ideas that are a little more outside the box when it comes to making quality goals as this year turns to next. Here are some resolutions that you might find are more unique and may be better suited to you.

Start a journal

Journaling is something that many of us did in our younger years, but as we’ve gotten busy with adult responsibilities, it may not be something we do anymore. Whether you grab a journal and a pen or set up your own personal blog, getting your thoughts down on paper (or online) may help you sort through feelings or record your memories and goals.

MORE: 6 most popular New Year’s resolutions if you are feeling a little stuck

Take a course

Learning a new skill, whether it’s for “fun” or not, is a fantastic resolution. Whether you’re interested in certain types of cooking or tackling a new spreadsheet program, there is probably a course out there just right for you. If you can find one in your local area, you’ll have the bonus of meeting new people with similar interests. If you can’t, and resort to an online course, you’ll be able to do it on your own time in the comfort of your own home.

Use gadgets less often

Gadgets are everywhere, and it’s super easy to whip out your phone wherever you are. Maybe you’d like to do this a little less often this upcoming year. Maybe you’d like to resolve to start putting your phone away and out of reach when you’re with friends and family in order to be a little more present and in the “now.”

Volunteer

Another resolution that is a little bit different is deciding to donate your time in the form of volunteering. There are oodles of different organizations that would love to have your help, from animal shelters, to schools, to hospitals, to community centers.

Hang with your neighbors

If you’re already good pals with your neighbors, you probably don’t need to resolve to spend more time with them, but if you’re not, this is a terrific resolution to make. You can even branch out and organize neighborhood gatherings, such as block parties, when the weather is nicer.

MORE: New Year‘s Eve and New Year‘s Day traditions you will love to follow

Organize donations

Giving back to your community may sound like an ambitious goal, but with some resolution-style planning, you can totally pull it off. It may be something as simple as setting up a donation box at a local business for a local organization or shelter, but you can also set up a social media campaign and put up flyers to help get the word out. You can also go so far as to set up a new foundation for your local community. This resolution is a selfless one that can positively reach many lives.

Popular New Year’s resolutions are perfectly fine, and it’s always a good idea to take a few moments to reflect on your life to see what little ways you can make changes for the better, such as eating healthier and taking more time for self-care. But the resolutions above are a little more unique than those tried-and-true standbys and may be a welcome change as the new year arrives.