After a season of festivities January is the perfect time for new beginnings. New Year’s resolutions usually involve some form of self improvement, such as losing weight or saving money, but resolutions can come in all shapes and sizes. If you are in need of inspiration, take a look at these out-of-the-ordinary examples.

Get adventurous in the kitchen

While many people start January with strict dieting, try adding a touch of excitement to your kitchen. Instead of calorie counting, set aside a night each week to cook something new. You might write the names of countries on pieces of paper and draw one each week out of a hat, before cooking their national dish. This can rekindle your appreciation of food and make meal times a group activity. Dieticians promote variety, so expanding your culinary tastes could benefit your health.

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Fundraise for charity

 Consider starting the new year with a good deed. You may already have a charity in mind, but be creative when thinking of fundraising opportunities. People are much more likely to donate to your cause if you are being sponsored to confront a fear or challenge. Sign up to a charity skydiving event, or get sponsored to hitchhike overseas. As well as friends, colleagues and family members, target companies for corporate sponsorship. This resolution will allow you to experience something new whilst giving to a worthy cause.

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Be a recorder-breaker

On the eHarmony UK Facebook page they have ditched the New Years Resolution in favour of a more positive Life 100 list. Subscribers to the dating site have contributed 100 ambitions - common or outlandish - that can easily be forgotten in the hurry of day to day life.

Writing a life list as part of your resolution will give you the perfect excuse to chase that goal, whatever it is. If you have a talent or dream that could break a world record, resolve to make your mark in history next year.

See your name in print

 Get creative next year and put pen to paper. Today anyone with internet access can create a blog and establish an online audience. Blogs are a useful medium for recording your impressions of day to day events and current affairs. If blogging isn’t your thing, write to a local or regional newspaper with an opinion piece or editorial.

 A novel-writing project is a resolution that can last throughout the year. Whilst it may seem daunting, this project is perfect for those with creative flair. Each year November is dubbed National Novel-Writing Month by an online community of writers. Starting in January and allocating the entire year will allow you to fit your writing around other responsibilities. It might be for your eyes only, or could make the next best seller list.

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