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So long, 2015. Bring on 2016 — and a batch of New Year’s resolutions that you can actually stick to. No matter the planning or pep talking, we all know that’s easier said than done, even when you set the smallest of goals. Something just inevitably gets in the way of waking up five minutes earlier, biking to work or hitting up that kickboxing class every Tuesday — you slam the snooze button, give in to the comfort of your car and pass up that sweat sesh for catch-up at the new hot cocktail bar. That’s why we’ve come up with the simplest new year’s resolutions ever, ones that would be difficult to break even for the lazy girls among us. Follow these eight near-effortless life hacks to totally streamline your day and, fingers crossed, your year.
Eat More Greens
If the sound of kale smoothies and salads — dressing on the side! — makes healthier eating sound like a drag, then aim for greener intake in your everyday meals with fresh herbs. With a countertop kitchen gadget like the Click & Grow Smart Herb Garden Starter Kit ($60) that uses LEDs to grow your favorite herbs within arm’s reach, you can add a sprinkling of freshness to any meal — even that takeout. Not only will it be easier to execute herb-heavy dishes like Caprese salads and tabouleh, but it can brighten up your food in unexpected ways too, like in fruit salads or flavored water.
Sleep Sounder
Getting the right amount of sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health, but when you’re constantly surrounded by updates and buzz (thanks Twitter), it can be difficult to shut off and sink into a deep sleep. Up your chances of a experiencing a blissful sleep by basically turning your bed into a spa with a Malouf Zoned Dough Pillow ($73), a lavender-scented memory foam pillow. Its aromatherapy and sound support is designed to help you keep calm and snooze on. With this on your bed, just close your eyes, shut off the lights and you’ll be well on your way.
Do the Dishes
2016 *will* be the year you stop leaving dishes in the sink or in the dishwasher ’til you run out of clean plates when you have a dish rack this equipped on your side. This Black+Blum High & Dry Dish Drainer ($40) might be the most helpful work of art ever with its sturdy green spikes adding drama to your countertop while being a safe space for your grown-up glassware to dry. Equip your sink with a sweet-smelling dish soap and fresh sponge and we’re seeing a Roommate of the Year award in your near future.
Be More Creative
You’re game for learning a new skill — online classes are so up your alley — but with your busy schedule, you’re not able to dedicate the follow-up time to perfect your endeavor. That doesn’t mean you don’t have time to be creative — just stick to something you know, like coloring. Spend your free hour coloring instead of watching TV in a book made for adults, like Johanna Basford’s Secret Garden Artist’s Edition ($23) to tap into your artistic side without any hassle.
Eat Less Takeout
There’s no point in nailing your make-ahead meals schedule if you’re not gonna follow through and bring them to work for lunch. Brown bags and reused takeaway containers are so uninspiring, so stay on track with this Cool, Calm and Connected Bento Box ($18) that gives you all kind of compartments for you to store your snacks.
Organize Your Desk
If the one thing you dreaded more than heading back to work was heading back to your desk — baby steps. Save the deep clean for spring and instead, sort your on-the-go office supplies with a slick organizer. This Poketo Minimalist Folio ($48) has space for all of your essentials, so you can get to work stress free and stay organized as you hop from meeting to meeting. Not to mention it makes for a chic addition to any outfit, on or off duty.
Minimize Waste
Kick off the year in an eco-friendly mindset with subtle changes to your routine that over time will make a HUGE difference. Invest in a water bottle, turn off the lights when you leave a room and dedicate a tote bag as your grocery store PIC. With arm candy as cute as this Honey and Bloom Locals Tote ($30), skipping the paper and the plastic will be easier than ever. Pro tip: The more lightweight the bag, the better! Roll it up and stash it in your everyday tote in case you end up going on a surprise grocery or Target run.
