INSTEAD of the same old list of what not to do, here are ways of filling up your soul and caring for you! These are some suggestions for being a better and more-fulfilled you in the new year.

1. Volunteer

What is your passion: Animals, kids, the earth, the elderly? Can you be a foster parent? Can you visit a nursing home at a holiday? Do you have more time than money? Nonprofits still need you! They need help doing events, running social media and helping in the back office. What are your strengths and talents and how can they carry over to help a nonprofit?

2. Join a book club

What subjects interest you: Science, the stars, fiction, history? What subject would you want to know more about? Expanding your mind and your knowledge may lead to feeling smarter, stronger and finding new people that have a similar interest as you. Or, take a reading challenge.

3. Have lunch with a friend, face to face

Texting often doesn’t convey full emotions and feelings, which are often more complex than a statement or emoji can show. Texting isn’t always enough, so meet those special people in your life in person. Resolve to meet once a month, or as often as your time and health allow. Hug them tight — humans need physical touch!

4. Recycle — the earth needs you

Is your recycling bin fuller than your garbage? Have you read your city recycling policy? What else can you recycle that you’ve forgotten about? What about your city’s water policy? Is your water clean? Are there things you put down your sink that you shouldn’t?

5. Be inclusive — make new friends

Is there someone in your life that you have met several times now but still don’t know? Invite them to coffee. They are in your life for a reason — reach out! Can you do little things (including smiling and greetings) to make them feel more welcome and included? A smile and a friend can change your world!

6. Find yourself, care for yourself

Fill up your own cup so you have something to give to others. Make space for small moments of quiet. Though you may need to get up and make breakfast, you could back to your bed and drink your coffee in bed or perhaps you can sleep 10 extra minutes. Or get up 15 minutes early and have a quiet moment before the chaos begins. Can you order food to be delivered twice a month, giving you a planned night off? Can you plan for a date night — even in your own backyard — to reconnect with your loved one? Have you had a pedicure or massage lately? Be kind to yourself; when you look in the mirror, smile back at that beautiful person!

Take some small moments to care for yourself so you can give back to others. Make this year about connecting and letting others in, letting them help you find yourself and your passions. (SD-Agencies)