Let’s be realistic: most New Year diets end on January 5^th. This year, instead of the usual “lose 10 pounds” resolutions, why not make a list of long-lasting decisions that will impact your health, routine, your relation to others and to the world? Commit to a few of them and tell friends about your goals so you will really stick with your choices and turn them into good habits. Are you ready?

1) Be present. Put your phone away.

Spend more time with people you love. Instead of chatting online, or texting for hours, go grab a coffee with your friends or have them over for dinner or wine. Start building memories offline. Also, don't check Instagram while your parents, siblings, husband, boyfriend, wife or kids are talking to you. They're more important than anything posted on social media. You spend so much time on social that you know an unknown celebrity better than your own family – Isn’t that right?  

2) Buy less.

Invest in experiences, not things. If you can, travel. Find a place that pulls you out of your comfort zone, where you can try new foods, new languages, different climates, and stunning landscapes. Get inspired by our niche fragrance collection Collages, a journey that takes you to the sands and dense forests of Brazil.

3) Eat better.

Better for you and better for the planet. Cook more at home -  it's a way to know where your food comes from, and connect with farmers, bakers, grocers. Quoting the guru, journalist and author Michael Pollan: "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants." And by food, Pollan means real food.

4) Volunteer.

Get involved in a local organization. You will discover how powerful your time and devotion are to others. Read books to the blind, visit the elderly, help with your community garden, mentor humble kids who face obstacles. It will be equally rewarding to you.

5) Be selective.

Don't schedule more events than you can commit. Chose the few where you can be really present - mind and body - and discard what's irrelevant.

6) Read books.

Make a list of books you want to read this year and follow it. Browse a library, on-line reading groups or even better, create or join a book club.

7) Find a cause that touches your heart.

Crowdfund for it. Fundraise by running a marathon or selling cookies. Children, seniors, refugees, clinical trials, animals, environmental issues. Everyone needs your help and dedication - and you'll be fulfilled by being part of the solution.

8) Challenge yourself.

Try a new activity that will refresh and recharge your brain and maybe introduce you to new people. Chess? Knitting? Guitar? Fencing? Yoga? French? Wall climbing? Ballet? Have fun! 

We all have choices in the way we live. Think about yours.

Here’s to a New Year filled with adventure, connection, purpose and joy!

Illustrations by Sonja Bajic

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