In this new year, it's time to set fresh resolutions, tackle new challenges, and achieve new goals. The past couple of years have posed many difficulties for everyone, but I firmly believe in the strength found in overcoming obstacles. The fulfillment that comes from achieving a goal is truly invaluable.

Recently, I participated in an online Airbnb Experience called “A Roadmap to Plentitude,” led by my friend Elena. She has been engaging in monthly challenges, using a color-coded sheet to track her accomplishments. Inspired by her approach, I plan to adopt a similar method to visualize my own progress. A crucial takeaway for me was to practice self-compassion and not be too hard on myself if I occasionally miss a day. After all, making an effort is far better than doing nothing at all.

I've compiled a list of 14 challenges that I aim to tackle at least once a month. Once I complete these challenges, I'll write a follow-up article to share my experiences. My objective is to practice habit stacking, gradually incorporating new habits into my routine. Reviewing my planners from the last two years revealed that many of my aspirations have gone unfulfilled. I often overwhelm myself by trying to accomplish too many things simultaneously, which leads to burnout. Moreover, I tend not to create a structured plan for achieving my goals. By introducing new habits each month, I hope to make progress, even if I don’t manage to do all 12 every day by year’s end.

So, shall we get started?

30 Day Reading Challenge

This challenge inspired the creation of this article. I learned about an individual who committed to reading 30 pages daily for 30 days. If anyone knows who this is, please let me know so I can credit them appropriately.

What I appreciate about this challenge is its flexibility; it doesn’t specify a required number of books. My previous goal of reading 52 books in a year fell short, but focusing on pages feels much more manageable. I’ve decided to start this challenge in January, alternating between fiction and nonfiction, and I’m curious to see how many books I can finish by the end of the month.

30 Day Declutter Challenge

This idea came from an Instagram health coach, likely inspired by a minimalist podcast. The premise is simple: on Day 1, you discard one item; on Day 2, two items, and so forth. This challenge encourages participants to see who can last the longest. I find it a fun way to motivate ourselves while clearing out unnecessary possessions. A tidy space always leaves me feeling more organized and at ease!

I plan to embark on this challenge in January as well.

[Instagram Post](https://www.instagram.com/p/CYM8wK6vvX5/?utm_medium=copy_link)

30 Day Workout Challenge

This challenge offers numerous possibilities. I’m considering daily ten-minute workout videos that focus on different muscle groups: abs, lower body, and upper body.

Here’s a suggestion from Refinery29 UK about committing to a 30-day workout regimen.

I Worked Out Every Day For 30 Days — & This Was The Biggest Thing I Learned

By Jessica Chou

[Read more](medium.com)

One of my fitness goals has been to achieve defined abs. Although I haven’t succeeded yet, I’m optimistic that this could be the year.

30 Day Running Challenge

Five years ago, I embarked on a 30-day running challenge, and I’ve continued ever since, maintaining a five-year streak (with the exception of one day due to food poisoning). I plan to write an article detailing my journey in the future. For anyone looking to join me, trust me, running for 30 consecutive days will leave you feeling fantastic and accomplished—maybe you’ll even keep it up for five years!

30 Day Water Challenge

This challenge is popular, yet many of us don’t partake enough. I should definitely attempt this and see how I feel afterward. Drinking a gallon daily for 30 days—what are your thoughts?

For more insights, check out this article by Checkmate11.

30 Day Writing Challenge

I attempted this challenge last November but didn’t succeed. At that time, I also aimed to post daily, which was overwhelming. I believe setting a timer for 30 minutes of writing each day for 30 days will be more manageable, alleviating some of the pressure. I’ve come across articles suggesting themed writing, and I’m intrigued by the idea.

30 Day Meditation Challenge

Meditation is equally important, yet we often neglect it. Many health and fitness coaches emphasize its value, and there are various apps available to assist with tracking and guidance. I’m considering a brief, ten-minute daily meditation practice, as I’ve realized I enjoy short activities.

30 Day Gratitude Challenge

I recently received a gratitude journal for Christmas and am eager to start this challenge. November is often a popular month for these, and I’ve noticed Instagram challenges that I’d like to explore as well.

30 Days to Learn a New Language

Having spent six months each in South America and Italy, I still don’t speak Spanish or Italian—just a few words here and there. I have a habit of practicing and then stopping, moving to a new country and attempting to learn a different language, but never retaining much. Perhaps dedicating 30 days to consistent practice is what I need to finally make progress.

For some motivation, check out Matt Lillywhite's article on learning a language in 30 days.

30 Days without Sugar

This challenge may be the toughest of all. I might tackle this in February, taking advantage of the shorter month. Many foods contain sugar, but I’ll allow fruit while cutting out added sugars in juices.

Anyone interested in joining me?

30 Day Stretching Challenge

As a former gymnast, I miss being able to do the splits. While I run every day, I hardly stretch. Improving my flexibility is a must; I often feel too stiff for my age. I’m uncertain if I’ll achieve the splits by the end of the 30 days, but I’m confident I’ll feel and sleep better.

I’m excited to attempt this challenge, and I think meditating for ten minutes afterward would complement it well.

30 Day Sober Challenge

Although I don’t typically drink much, I enjoy having a drink while traveling. I wouldn’t pass up a glass of wine during dinner in Italy or a beer with friends in Colombia. Nonetheless, taking breaks from alcohol is beneficial. While I’m not entirely committed to this challenge, it’s worth considering.

30 Day Money Saving Challenge

As I work through the declutter challenge while writing this article, I’ve realized how much unnecessary stuff I buy. The pandemic led to a surge in my online shopping habits, and I’ve accumulated many items, some still with tags. I often find myself purchasing inexpensive things I don’t need simply because they’re cheap. I’d like to spend a month focusing solely on necessary purchases. While I’m generally good at saving money, there’s always room for improvement.

For inspiration, check out Fahri Karakas's article on saving money.

30 Day No Complaining Challenge

I might have saved the toughest challenge for last. Has anyone successfully completed this? With the right mindset, it’s certainly achievable. While we may stumble along the way, I believe we’ll feel much better overall.

For further insights, check out Charlene Fate’s article on the importance of refraining from complaints.

As mentioned, I plan to tackle a different 30-day challenge each month. Feel free to follow my journey and subscribe for updates on how they unfold. I’d also love to hear any suggestions you might have! Special thanks to Jeff Rineer for his assistance with this article.

Safe travels and happy growth—Emily

Twitter-@drinkwithlocals Instagram-@emilyreneeweiss