20 Things to Do in 2020

New Year’s resolutions can be a little overrated, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use the new year as inspiration to try some new fun things! The start of a new decade is also a perfect time to try new things, form good habits, and have a little fun. To inspire you with some ideas for 2020 goals, we’ve put together a list of 20 things to do in 2020.

1. Read 20 books.
This is a great idea to do as a family! Twenty books in 12 months is a perfect homeschool challenge.

2. Have a freaky Friday.
Swap places with your kids for a day and let them experience being a homeschool parent.

3. Take a class.
As a homeschool parent, you are often in the teacher’s seat, but we’re never too old to keep learning! Find a class, academic or activity-related, for yourself in 2020.

4. Make a new friend.
Meeting new people can help you continue to grow as a person. We know with the rhythms of parenthood, this charge can be more difficult than it seems, but challenge yourself and your spouse to get out of your regular circles and make a new friend this year.

5. Break a bad habit.
Breaking a bad habit requires an intentional choice to do something new. This diversion from old habits creates new neural pathways in the brain which strengthens the brain like exercise.

6. Enjoy a technology fast.
Whether for a week, weekend, or even just a day, turn off the screens and breathe deep.

7. Do something for 20 days straight.
Sound easy? You’d be surprised. Pick something you’d like to make a habit like a reading plan, an exercise, or quiet time and do it every day for 20 days straight. No excuses.

8. Work on your listening skills.
Most of us have room for improvement when it comes to being a good listener. Be intentional about honing your listening skills this year. Not sure where to start? Pay attention to how many questions you ask in a conversation.

9. Reconnect with a friend.
Reconnecting doesn’t require a commitment to being besties. You can brighten someone’s day with just a quick phone call or note saying the person was on your mind.

10. Try meatless Mondays.
Cutting back on meat intake is good for our health, the environment, and your checkbook. Try the challenge of meatless Mondays and discover some delicious new healthy dishes.

11. Pay attention to your boundaries.
No one is going to fight for your boundaries if you don’t. Pay attention to your boundaries and don’t budge on them. For example, say no to the third social gathering of the week. Stand your ground when your child is begging you to change your mind on a decision. Let yourself off the hook from volunteering for everything at church.

12. Do something that scares you.
Getting out of your comfort zone is a great way to grow. If you’re unsure where the end of your comfort zone is, just look for the things that scare you.

13. Make something. Anything.
You don’t have to be an artist to get the creative juices flowing and make some art. Whether you go painting or find a coloring book for grown-ups, dare to make something.

14. Get into nature.
Even if you’re not an outdoorsy type, fresh air is good for all of us. Bring the kids or find a little escape for yourself and your spouse.

15. Be intentional about documentation.
In the age of selfies, choose to get a little artsy with your documentation. Make a home video or take only one photo each day for a great photo album! In addition, learn to elevate the photos you do take.

16. Make time for music.
Learn an instrument (the penny whistle is an easy one to pick up), go to a live concert, or listen to an entire album from beginning to end!

17. Send a handwritten card or letter.
Everyone loves the personal touch of a handwritten note.

18. Drive without a destination.
Find a free afternoon and get the crew in the car to go for a drive without a set destination or time constraint. It’s amazing the things you can discover when the road is your only guide. For an extra element of fun, let your kids decide which turns you make. No maps or GPS allowed either!

19. Indulge your nostalgia.
What do you think of when you remember the “good, old days”? Bring them back by sharing something from your memories with your kids. Dig out the old photos and tell stories. You may even be able to stream your favorite movie or sitcom from your own childhood.

20. Rest.
In a home full of kids and to-do lists, sometimes the most radical, new thing you can do is rest. Don’t be afraid to stay home, take a nap, and breathe.