New Year, New Goals: Ways to Grow + Give This Year
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, we collectively turn the page to a new year, brimming with possibilities and opportunities. This is the time to think about how we want to grow, what we want to achieve, and how we can bring more joy and connection into our lives. While traditional resolutions like "eating healthier" or "exercising more" are common, why not try something a little more creative, community-oriented, and fun this year? From discovering new ways to connect with others to pursuing music-related goals and improving yourself with tools like the Original Breath Builder®, here are some unique New Year’s resolution ideas to make 2024 your most inspiring year yet!
1. Volunteer and Give Back to Your Community
The start of a new year is the perfect time to think about how you can make a difference in your community. Volunteering can be as simple as signing up for a local event or joining an organization that matches your interests. Whether it’s serving meals at a soup kitchen, organizing community clean-ups, or mentoring kids in your neighborhood, your time and effort can create a ripple effect of positivity.
Looking for a fun and musical way to give back? Volunteer at a local school band program or community music group. Offer to help organize concerts, fundraisers, or workshops, and you'll not only contribute but also connect with like-minded people who share your passion for music.
2. Set a Musical Resolution
Music is the universal language of connection, and the new year is the perfect opportunity to let music enrich your life in a new way. Here are some fun music-related resolutions to try:
Learn a New Instrument: Always wanted to learn guitar, piano, or even ukulele? Make 2024 the year you finally pick up that instrument!
Join a Choir or Band: Find a local community choir, band, or orchestra to join. It’s a great way to make friends and be part of something bigger than yourself.
Commit to Daily Practice: If you’re already a musician, use the new year to challenge yourself to a consistent practice routine. Even 15 minutes a day can lead to significant progress!
Support Local Music: Make it your mission to attend more live performances. Local bands, school concerts, and open mic nights are incredible ways to support musicians in your community.
For wind and brass players, consider using the Original Breath Builder® to enhance your breathing technique. You’ll find that the consistent use of this tool not only improves your lung capacity but also helps you sustain notes longer and play more confidently—perfect for leveling up your musical skills in the new year.
3. Take Care of Your Health—Body and Mind
The new year is often when we focus on improving our health, but this resolution doesn’t have to be boring! Think about ways to integrate healthy habits that are fun, engaging, and support both your body and mind.
Practice Breath Training: Whether you’re a musician or simply want to improve your overall lung health, breath control exercises using the Original Breath Builder® can be transformative. By strengthening your respiratory system, you’ll not only play music better but also experience benefits in relaxation and mindfulness.
Try a New Activity: Sign up for a yoga, dance, or fitness class in your community. These activities not only get you moving but also provide a way to meet new people and build connections.
Prioritize Mental Wellness: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation into your daily routine. Set aside time each morning or evening to focus on your breathing, reflect on your day, and practice gratitude.
4. Explore Local Events and Get More Involved
One of the best resolutions you can make is to connect more with your local community. Often, we get so caught up in our routines that we miss out on the amazing events happening right around us. Make it your mission to explore and enjoy local happenings this year.
Attend Community Events: From farmers’ markets to art shows and theater performances, your community is full of exciting events. Keep an eye on local calendars and make a point to try something new each month.
Support School Performances: Local schools often host band concerts, theater productions, and other performances that showcase young talent. Attending these events not only supports students but also brings a sense of togetherness and pride to your community.
Organize Your Own Event: Love music? Why not organize a community open mic night or jam session? This can be a fun way to bring people together and celebrate creativity in your area.
5. Start a Family or Friend Tradition
Resolutions don’t have to be about just you—they can be about creating meaningful traditions with your loved ones. Shared experiences build stronger bonds and make life more memorable.
Game Night or Movie Marathon: Dedicate one night a month to a family or friend gathering filled with board games, movie nights, or potluck dinners.
Music Appreciation Nights: Share your favorite songs, albums, or playlists with each other. You might discover new music and deepen your connection through shared taste.
Holiday Giving Projects: Plan to adopt a family during the holidays, organize a toy drive, or bake cookies to deliver to neighbors or first responders.
By focusing on giving, sharing, and spending quality time together, you’ll create lasting memories that enrich your relationships year after year.
6. Cultivate Creativity
Make 2024 the year of exploring your creative side. Whether through music, writing, art, or crafting, creative activities are a wonderful way to express yourself and reduce stress.
Pick Up a New Hobby: Ever wanted to try photography, knitting, or painting? Start small and let yourself enjoy the process.
Host Creative Workshops: Gather friends or community members for a DIY night where you make art, build crafts, or play music together.
Create Personal Challenges: Challenge yourself to write a song, learn a new piece of music, or compose poetry throughout the year.
7. Give Back Through Music
If music has been a big part of your life, why not use it as a tool to give back to your community?
Offer Lessons: Volunteer to teach kids or beginners the basics of your instrument or vocal technique.
Play for a Cause: Organize a benefit concert where the proceeds go to a local charity or cause you care about.
Visit Nursing Homes: Brighten someone’s day by performing holiday carols or other music at nursing homes, hospitals, or shelters.
8. Focus on Gratitude and Connection
At its core, the new year is a time for gratitude and connection. Commit to building stronger relationships with the people who matter most in your life.
Write Thank-You Notes: Take the time to write heartfelt notes to those who’ve made a difference in your life.
Reconnect with Old Friends: Make it a goal to reach out to one person each month whom you’ve lost touch with.
Spend Unplugged Time with Loved Ones: Turn off your devices and be fully present during family meals, walks, or conversations.
9. Embrace the Joy of Giving
A fulfilling resolution for 2024 is to embrace generosity in all its forms. Give your time, talents, or resources to help others while finding joy in the act of giving itself.
Start Your Year with Purpose
This New Year’s, let’s think beyond just personal growth and focus on how we can connect, give back, and find joy in our communities. Whether you’re volunteering, exploring local events, or working on breath training with the Original Breath Builder®, these resolutions can make 2024 your most meaningful year yet.
Let’s make this a year of music, love, and community! Happy New Year! 🎉✨
