23 Awesome ideas for the New Year!

Hey friends,

I’m so excited to share this list with you.

Firstly,  this is a list of ideas and activities that will help you grow physically, mentally, spiritually, relationally, and financially.

Many of these are simple ideas you can implement in a day or even just an afternoon, while a few will require more time and resource investment such as travel, learning something new, and volunteering.

Without further ado, here’s a list of 23 things you should try this year.

1. Travel to a new place

2023 is a great time to explore new places and cultures. Take some time to think about the one place you would like to visit this year and how to make it happen.

2. Do a 24-hour prayer fast

Okay, this seems quite hardcore, but I imagine it will be an unforgettable experience. The idea is really to spend uninterrupted time with God. Your prayer sessions can be interspersed with worship, reading the word, and listening to Bible teachings.

3. Attend an art show

Attending an art show has some obvious benefits; it broadens your tastes, hopefully, gets your creative juices flowing, and is an opportunity to network and socialize.

4. Start a blog or YouTube channel

Find a way to document shareable moments or things you’ve learned. It can be about your area of interest or just life’s moments (vlogs).

5. Read the book of Proverbs and make notes of each day’s learnings

The book of Proverbs is a treasure trove of life tips and life lessons. I know that reading and meditating on this book will have a profound effect on your character and your work ethic. A win-win.

6. Learn to play an instrument

Learn something. And why not start with a musical instrument? You get to improve your skills and also gladden your soul.

7. Volunteer within your city

It’s said that a ‘life of service is a life well lived.’ Find opportunities to serve in your community. It could be a one-off or more structured service. You decide.

8. Start a pet project

We all have goals and dreams, and for some of us, there is often that big, scary goal we have been meaning to do.

What is yours? Perhaps, 2023 is the year to finally give it your all.

9. Go offline for 48hours

Ah! You’re probably shaking your head at this one, but I promise the world will not come to an end when you turn off your electronic devices. It will give you a chance to reflect, strategize and rejuvenate.

10. Write a thank you note and share it with 5 people who have impacted your life.

I always say gratitude makes room for growth. Our ability to remember and express our thanks deepens our humility and our graciousness. Write that note and you will be surprised what it will do for you and for the people who receive them.

11. Buy an unexpected gift for a family member

Show some love. Don’t just say it but do it!

12. Offer to babysit for a friend or a loved one with kids.

Be available to those who may need your help. You can choose to do this occasionally or have a standard arrangement with them.

13. Read an autobiography of someone in your area of interest.

Reading is one of the most important practices for our generation. These days, we have audio options in addition to the books. So, find something by an author in your area of interest. It will shed new light on how they got to where they are.

14. Go hiking

Hiking may seem like a weird option, but it gives you a chance to explore and see things from an elevated angle (this can affect your appreciation and perception of the world). For those in Nigeria, there are quite a few hiking spots in Southern and Northern Nigeria.

15. Try out a new sport

Do something different. Trying out a new sport is a good way to socialize and get your body in shape. Who knows, you may enjoy it so much that it becomes a part of your routine.

16. Go on a solo movie and dinner date.

Take time to enjoy your own company.

17. Buy yourself a special and memorable gift.

Terms: it should be within budget, pretty, and something you can have for more than a year.

18. Start a journal

Document your life and experiences. I have been journaling since 2019, and it is still one of my best decisions to date. It is a game changer. I share more here.

19. Pay for someone’s meal

This is a simple act of kindness that can go a long way, especially if it’s for a stranger. You will certainly make their day, and they are more likely to pay it forward. Be kind always.

20. Visit an orphanage and or senior home

Spend some time with people who may not always have someone. You would be surprised what a difference it will make to your life and theirs.

21. Offer to run errands for someone who is swamped.

Be that friend in deed.

22. Learn to cook a signature dish.

It doesn’t have to be anything complicated, find a dish you like and learn how to make it – or all the different ways to make it.

23. Host a sleepover

Be intentional about your friendships this year. A sleepover gives you a chance to spend an extended amount of time with those who matter to you. Eat, talk, dance, play…do all the things that make your soul happy.

Start today

That’s it!

23 awesome things that will add some spice, context, and meaning to your year. Hope you enjoyed the list. Are there other things you are looking to do? Please share in the comments.

I also hope to create these annual lists going forward.