Who doesn't want to have a successful year? In the end, that's everyone's ultimate goal, right? So, as 2015 rings to a close and as you make your plans for 2016, here are some suggestions on how to have a successful year ahead:
1. Restructure your finances.
The New Year is always a good time to lay out your financial plans, expenses, savings, credits and investments. Have an accurate overview of your finances so that you can motivate yourself to work harder, spend wisely, protect your family's needs and venture into other productive endeavors.
"It's very important for people to understand where their money is going," said financial planner Howard Pressman via Forbes. "The problem is that many people don't like what the results are, as they realize how much money they're wasting on odd things." You might need to consolidate your debts or hire a new accountant, per Entrepreneur.
2. Invest in your health; evaluate your diet, fitness and lifestyle plans.
It's good to start the year with your health and fitness on track. To do this, you have to see a doctor. Running various tests and screenings might not be necessary, but engaging with your doctor is a more proactive approach to preventive care, per Harvard Health Publications.
It might also be a good idea to invest in wearable technology for fitness. "Tech devices are now central to our daily lives and have changed the way we plan and manage our workouts," said American College of Sports Medicine study author Walter R. Thompson via Medical Daily. "Wearable devices also provide immediate feedback that can make the wearer more aware of their level of activity and can motivate the user to achieve their fitness goals."
3. Indulge in a hobby and make travel plans.
Working hard in 2016 could pay off, but it could also suck the life out of you. You could easily lose your motivation to succeed when you're drained and tired from all the work. Detach from time to time and get into hobbies to feed your interests. This might be the right year to try dancing lessons, or learn photography, or finally make that travel plan you've been putting off for some time.
"Making my alternative passions a priority...allows me to clear my head and decompress," said DocuSign executive Catherine Courage, via Teen Vogue. "I often solve some of my toughest problems when I am out for a run, bike, or a swim."
4) Clean and reorganize your home and work area.
Sorting things out and junking useless stuff you've gathered in the last year is cathartic exercise. If you want to be focused for 2016, then get decluttering. Studies have proven that a cluttered area can result in "decreased performance and increased stress," per Life Hacker.
