Yes, it’s 2024 and, yes, that means it’s the time of year you might expect to see this kind of list – and you are! But think of this as some New Year’s resolutions with a twist.
Fresh year, fresh minds! There’s so much to accomplish.
Without further ado, would you like to...
1. Get into a new sport?
Play pickleball : from the local court to the pro circuit, an insider's guide to everyone's favorite sport by Sydney Steinaker
Seems like everyone is playing – or knows someone who is playing – pickleball at the moment. According to the subtitle, it is everyone’s favourite sport, but just what is it exactly? If you don’t know yet, don’t worry, here’s your chance to find out!
2. Impress at your next party?
Art : explained : 100 masterpieces and what they mean by Susie Hodge
Christmas might be over, but the summer party season is still with us. Who would like to casually name drop one of the world’s greatest artists? Well, heed the words of author Susie Hodge and you can, for example, mention Edward Hopper and his interest in the themes of isolation and loneliness. There’s so much more to find in this book, so get reading!
Incidentally, we have a great recommendation for combating loneliness – visit a library!
3. Start with some energetic motivation....
Are you one of those sorts of people who only needs a few days of downtime before being ready to tackle the bigger issues of the world? If so, lucky you! This book can show you how to do just that, with input from some famous names like Colin Kaepernick, Emma Watson and Sir Bob Geldof among others.
4…. or lean into relaxation, just for a little longer
I didn't do the thing today : on letting go of productivity guilt by Madeleine Dore
Or perhaps you’re someone who wakes up in January and can’t remember what day it is because you’re enjoying holidays so much. Want to sustain that anti-productive mood and take it with you once hecticness returns once again? This book will help.
5. Get to know your neighbourhood better
Melbourne's best river, bay & lakeside walks by Julie Mundy
Flicking through this full-colour guide, even life-long locals could be forgiven for thinking “I didn’t realise so many walks were so close to me”. Do these places ring a bell – Edwardes Lake Park? Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary? Spiritual Creek Walk? Check them out – and more! Your step count for the day will thank you too. Also, on a similar theme, with further coverage, you can try Day Walks Melbourne by John Chapman
Do you have any New Year’s Resolutions planned for 2024?
Let us know on social media, we’d love to hear them.