Spicing up the New Year—Five Ways to Bring the Heat in 2021.

After the challenges of 2020, we could all use a renewed zest for life and a chance to change the status quo.

The turn of the year offers a mental fresh start where we can set goals and take a step towards becoming that better version of ourselves.

As we set our focus on achieving goals, here are five ideas to shake things up to continue to learn, try new things, and grow through adventures

1. Take a Solo Trip—whether you are a seasoned veteran or you have never traveled alone, solo trips are a great opportunity to expand your comfort zone, boost your confidence, and meet new people.

One of my most memorable trips was immediately after graduating from college when I decided to catch a one-way flight to Australia while I was waiting to find out if I had been accepted into the Marine Corps.

I bought the ticket, packed my bag and one week later I was off to the famous land down under! It wasnot until the plane was getting ready to touch down in Brisbane that the doubts (and mild panic) set inthat I did not have a job or place to live lined up.

Thankfully, after a few days of searching, both fell into place and so began one of the best summers andbiggest adventures of my life. While traveling with friends remains my preferred choice, I decided thatregardless of who could or could not join, I would never cancel a trip simply because I would be solo.

That was a decision I have never regretted. So whether it is a quick day trip to a nearby town or aninternational destination, take on an adventure by yourself!

2. Try a bucket list activity—there is no time like the present to try an activity you have always considered trying. I am absolutely a list person. I love the feeling of accomplishment every time I put pen to paper and place a satisfying check next to an item. Of all the lists, my bucket list is by far my favorite.

After all, it is essentially a written summary of all my biggest goals, dreams, and places to visit. Some items take time, like my goal to visit every country in the world, but writing it down makes it more real and slowly I can check off country by country ( so far up to 108 and the rest-here I come)!

Every list is different, but pick just one activity you have always dreamed of trying; perhaps breaking out leggings for hot yoga or going to salsa dance class, trying ice climbing or skydiving. Make a plan and go for it.

You may find something new that you become passionate about, but at the very least you will have made new memories and overcome the challenge of putting yourself out there.

3. Take a free class online—challenge yourself to learn a new skill or expand your knowledge. During COVID-19, some of the most prestigious universities in the world including Harvard, Berkley, MIT, and so many more, have started offering hundreds of free classes online through edX.

I tried my hand at quantum mechanics which turned out not to be my cup of tea, but I definitely learned a lot about a field that was completely foreign to me. Next, I signed up for a course on emerging economies that closely aligns with my actual job and has provided a fresh perspective to consider problem sets.

The thousands of classes offered range from art history to writing and provide a constructive creative outlet to spend time and gain knowledge from experts without spending a dime.

4. Throw on the Hiking Boots— the sense of accomplishment from completing a climb and being rewarded with a panoramic view is always a good reason to hit the trail. Fill your lungs with fresh air while burning a lot of calories through physical exertion.

This is one of my favorite ways to stick with weight loss or fitness goals by knocking out some cardio outside the gym as hiking burns 440 calories on average per hour. If you want to up the ante, make it a dedicated day for a digital detox and give social media and your phone a break to clear your head and regain focus.

5. Sample International Cuisine- while restaurants and travel options may be limited, there is plenty of inspiration to be found in the kitchen! Feeling fancy? Perhaps try a wine and cheese pairing or maketiramisu.

Missing travel? Maybe try building sushi rolls with your favorite combo or making some spicy Pho.

Are you a carb fanatic? Try your hand at Italian Carbonara or make fresh rolls. Trying to eat healthier? Whip up some vegan tacos or build a Buddha Bowl.

New recipes can provide creative outlets to make delicious foods and prevent the mundane from creeping into your meal plan.

Invite a friend to join you (except for the first adventure- that one is all you!) to share the fun and maybe you will become the inspiration to help a friend finally give something a try!

Brie Burgett

U S M C Reserves

Hey I am Brie! I am a globe trotter, US Marine and full time adventure seeker. The last decade I have been extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to travel around the world exploring and trying new things. So far I've been to 6 Continents and 108 Countries. I am a firm believer that the keys to success are in taking action today to work towards dreams and constantly failing forwards! IG @thebrieadventure