You’ve had a few days to ease into the New Year. How does 2019 feel so far? Many of us take this time to take stock of things and resolve to make some changes. While aiming to exercise more or read more books top the resolutions charts, check out our list of resolutions that are a bit off the beaten path.

Change Your Commute

Have you thought about reducing your impact on Mother Earth? Consider making some changes to your commuting habits. If your office is in a C-pass eligible building, you can nab unlimited COTA rides for nada. But, even if you can’t get a C-pass, options abound. COTA is still a great deal, with a great variety of routes, the free CBUS circulator service, and the bonus of avoiding the stress of traffic and parking. Or, MORPC offers ridesharing options like carpools and vanpools. Finally, consider biking, walking or running to work. While this might seem a chilly choice in January, it has the benefit of knocking off two resolutions at once, letting you get into shape and off to work. Bonus.

Resolve to Learn

Therapists agree that one of the best resolutions you can make is to learn new things. As we grown older, this can become more difficult. The challenge of learning something new stimulates your mind and improves your mood. Bingo. The Cultural Arts Center, CCAD and Thurber House offer great classes in the arts and writing. Or, check out the offerings at Columbus State, Franklin University or The Great Courses video series available at Columbus Metropolitan Library. There’s sure to be a topic that you always wanted to learn more about.

Down Size and Do Good

If removing your holiday decorations makes you yearn for a cleaner living space, you may just want to join the tidying up craze. (Many have begun the New Year by binge watching Tidying Up with Marie Kondo on Netflix). Consider donating your excess items to those in need. Faith Mission, The Open Shelter and the St. Vincent de Paul Society are just a few downtown-area charities that would appreciate your help.

Keep it Together

The holidays often mean lots of togetherness, but resolve to keep some of that closeness into the New Year. Check in with It’s Happening Downtown each week for fantastic events happening right here in the urban core. Fun with the kids? Check out COSI, Columbus Museum of Art, Thurber House and more for outstanding children’s programming. Date night magic? Skip the typical movie night and opt for live music or theatre. Check out Broadway in Columbus (Hamilton tickets are selling out fast!), Columbus Symphony (don’t miss the Beethoven Marathon later this month), ProMusica, CAPA (John Cusack Live intrigues) and much more. Girls or boys night out? Get active with PINS Mechanical, Columbus Brewery Tours and 16-Bit Bar + Arcade, plus when the weather warms, live music and entertainment at Columbus Commons and Bicentennial Park. The city’s your oyster; find a pearl.