Every year, we have new opportunities and challenges to tackle. As I did my personal year in review for 2018, there were seven things I learned that will launch me into 2019 and might be able to help you as well! Take a look:
1.) If you want to learn about business, start one
I started a business in 2018. You can read about business or take classes on the subject, but actually going through the process is where the real learning happens. I learned how to start an LLC and how to operate the finances for a business. I learned how to create something that people want to buy and how to design a website. 
I learned that when you first start a new business, you work extremely hard, profit very little, and wish you would have made a few different decisions early on.
If you truly want to learn about business in 2019, start one.
2.) Intermittent fasting is a game-changer
Three months ago, my roommate said, “hey, let’s try something different with our eating, let’s try intermittent fasting (IF).” I was hesitant at first, but then agreed to try it. Overall, It’s been the best change in how I approach nutrition that I’ve ever experienced. I have been doing IF for the past three months and have never felt better. My energy levels are the highest they’ve been and I am building muscle faster than I ever have. There is something else too- I have eradicated the daily feeling that I need an afternoon nap. Now, I eat within an eight hour window which is typically between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. and fast for sixteen hours from 6:00 p.m. through- 10:00 a.m.
I use an app called “Zero” to track my fasting times. The app also contains a bunch of resources that enable you to learn more about intermittent fasting.
If you want to live a healthier lifestyle in 2019, exercise more and try intermittent fasting. But if that doesn’t work for you, try something else.
3.) Reading books is good, but taking action on what you learn is more important
A lot of us have heard the phrase, knowledge is power. Earlier this year, I heard someone reframe this to: applied knowledge is power. That stuck with me. Now when I read books, I intentionally look for ways to apply the things I am learning. For example, I recently read the book, Atomic Habits by James Clear which is a phenomenal book on the process of habit formation. After finishing the book, I added one new habit to my life.
I wanted to increase my flexibility, so I began stretching two minutes a day. After making this decision, I’ve seen my flexibility improve dramatically over a long period of time.
I also use an app called “Habitbull” to track my daily habits. It is a great way to add an additional form of accountability. After all, the greatest distance in the world is the distance between knowing and doing.
If you want to change the world in 2019, apply the knowledge you learn.
4.) Having a consistent morning routine makes the day more effective
My roommate and I developed a consistent approach to our mornings in which we include several core things. We do some form of exercise, a short meditation, cook breakfast, do some light reading or work along with some good music to get our mindset right for the day.
If you want to change the course of your day in 2019, modify your morning to include something that will propel you forward into the day.
5.) When you walk past a stranger, smile and say hello
There are a lot of people in the world who are seeking a glimmer of hope from someone, anyone, that can turn their day around. I’ve worked in a hospital for the last three years, an environment where people are under high stress, little sleep, and looking for anything to make their day better.
If you want to change the world in 2019, start with little decisions like smiling and saying hello when you walk by strangers. You never know the impact that action might have on an individual.
6.) Go on short walks
A short walk has great power to let your mind wander. It is so easy to get caught up sitting at a desk for extended periods of time. Our mind needs a rest and this is a great way to give it one.
There is an added benefit to letting your mind wander, great ideas will come to you!
If you want to have better ideas and a calm mind in 2019, go on more walks.
7.) Find people with a similar mindset to join your circle of influence
This year, I had a new roommate move in with me. Having him there brought immediate accountability. It became easier to wake up in the morning for a workout. It became easier to eat healthy. It became more fun because of the various conversations I now get to have on a daily basis.
If you want to change the world in 2019, surround yourself with people who are on the same path as you and will push you to be better.
The start of a new year is always an exciting time. It feels like you have a fresh slate to make changes in your life or enhance things that are already thriving. Here is to making 2019 the most impactful year of our lives!