✅ 15 Things I Did This Year Checklist

Alright, you made it. Another year in the books, probably a few too many scrolls through TikTok, and definitely not enough actual adulting, right? Jokes aside, it’s easy to feel like the days just blur into one big ‘what did I even do?’ montage. But trust me, you rocked more than you think. This isn’t about grand, life-altering achievements, but those small, sneaky wins that actually make life feel a little richer. Let’s ditch the “new year, new me” pressure for a sec and actually celebrate the “this year, I did that” vibe.

1. Learned a new skill (even if it’s niche)

Remember that thing you swore you’d finally master? Maybe you picked up basic HTML coding, started fermenting your own veggies, or even just perfected the art of making an oat milk latte at home. It doesn’t need a certificate; just the act of trying something new counts big time.

Pro tip: Don’t aim for mastery on day one. Dedicate just 15 minutes a few times a week. You’d be surprised how quickly those tiny efforts compound.

It keeps your brain buzzing and proves you’re still a curious human, which is pretty cool.

2. Actually used my fancy kitchen gadget

That air fryer you bought during a late-night shopping spree? The stand mixer that’s been gathering dust? You finally pulled it out and, dare I say, made something edible. Maybe even something delicious. You gave it a shot, and that’s a win in itself.

Pro tip: Find one killer recipe that justifies its existence. For the air fryer, it’s crispy brussels sprouts. Trust me on this.

Less takeout, more bragging rights about your newfound culinary prowess.

3. Explored a new neighborhood or city part

Admit it, your usual haunts are a bit… boring. This year, you ventured beyond your usual stomping grounds. You discovered that cute coffee shop three blocks over or that indie bookstore you never knew existed. Being a tourist in your own town is seriously underrated.

Pro tip: Ditch Google Maps for an hour. Just pick a direction and wander. You’ll stumble upon hidden gems.

Fresh perspectives and maybe even a new favorite spot to impress your friends.

4. Digitally decluttered my life

My phone storage was basically a museum of blurry screenshots and apps I downloaded in 2017. You finally took a deep breath, unsubscribed from those annoying email lists, deleted old photos, and organized your digital files. Your brain (and your device) can breathe a sigh of relief.

Pro tip: Tackle one app or folder at a time when you have a spare 10 minutes. It feels less overwhelming.

Mental clarity and a much faster phone. What’s not to love?

5. Mastered a new coffee or cocktail recipe

Because paying $7 for a fancy latte every day adds up, right? You experimented with frothing milk, perfected your cold brew, or shook up a killer espresso martini. Your home bar (or coffee station) leveled up significantly, and your wallet probably thanked you.

Pro tip: Invest in quality ingredients. A good coffee bean or a decent spirit makes all the difference.

Impress your guests and save some cash for, well, more coffee or cocktail ingredients.

6. Read a book (or three) for pleasure

Remember actual paper pages? Wild, right? You carved out time to dive into a story, a memoir, or even a graphic novel, purely for the joy of it. No required reading, no self-help pressure, just good old-fashioned escapism.

Pro tip: Keep a book by your bed and pick it up instead of your phone before sleep. Game changer.

A little brain vacation and a nice break from endless scrolling.

7. Tried a completely new workout class or routine

Your muscles needed a new challenge, or at least a good laugh. You ventured into barre, rock climbing, hot yoga, or a dance cardio class that made you feel like Beyoncé (or at least like you were trying). You moved your body in a new way, and that’s a win.

Pro tip: Go with a friend. Shared awkwardness makes everything more fun, and you’ll motivate each other.

A fun way to stay active and maybe even find a new fitness obsession.

8. Cooked a meal entirely from scratch

Channeling your inner chef, without the actual chef skills, you whipped up a meal where every component was made by you. No pre-made sauces, no frozen shortcuts. It might have taken forever, but the satisfaction was real.

Pro tip: Pick a cuisine you love and find a reputable recipe site. Don’t be afraid to make a mess.

Delicious satisfaction and major bragging rights at your next dinner party.

9. Reconnected with an old friend

My phone call log was looking a little one-sided. You reached out to that person you always mean to call or text. A quick coffee, a video chat, or even just a funny meme exchange rekindled a connection. It’s the little things that keep bonds strong.

Pro tip: Don’t overthink it. A simple “thinking of you, how are things?” text is often all it takes.

Warm fuzzies and a reminder of the good people in your life.

10. Tackled a DIY home project

My Pinterest board finally came to life, kinda. You painted that accent wall, hung that gallery art, or finally assembled that flat-pack furniture without crying. Even small changes make your space feel more “you,” and that’s powerful.

Pro tip: Watch all the YouTube tutorials before you start. Seriously, every single one.

A personalized space and a sweet sense of accomplishment.

11. Spent a day totally screen-free

My phone and I needed a break, frankly. You put your phone on silent, tucked it away, and embraced the real world for a full 24 hours. You went for a hike, played board games, or just actually talked to people without interruption. It felt weird, then wonderful.

Pro tip: Tell people you’ll be offline so they don’t panic. Set expectations.

A much-needed mental reset and a reminder of life beyond the pixels.

12. Donated time or resources to a cause

Felt good to give back, and not just to my landlord. You volunteered at a local shelter, participated in a charity run, or simply made a thoughtful donation to a cause you care about. Making a positive impact, however small, feels incredibly rewarding.

Pro tip: Find something aligned with your passions. It makes giving back feel less like a chore and more like a joy.

Positive impact on the world and some serious good karma points for you.

13. Planted something and kept it alive

My track record with plants was… spotty, to say the least. But this year, you embraced your inner botanist. You bought a houseplant, started an herb garden, or even just nursed a sad-looking succulent back to health. And it’s still thriving! Mostly.

Pro tip: Start with something forgiving like a snake plant or a pothos. They practically thrive on neglect.

Green thumb achievement unlocked (maybe) and a little bit of living beauty in your space.

14. Learned a few phrases in a new language

Duolingo finally got some love, for a bit. You picked up a few greetings, learned how to order coffee, or asked for directions in another language. Even if it was just “Bonjour” and “Merci,” you expanded your linguistic horizons.

Pro tip: Focus on conversational phrases you’d actually use, rather than complex grammar rules. Small wins.

Brain exercise and a little extra confidence for future travels.

15. Wrote down my thoughts, goals, or gratitude

My brain needed an offload, like a crowded hard drive. You started journaling, made a list of things you’re grateful for, or even just jotted down your goals for the next month. Getting thoughts out of your head and onto paper (or screen) is surprisingly therapeutic.

Pro tip: Don’t edit yourself. Just write whatever comes to mind, no matter how silly it seems.

Clarity, self-awareness, and a positive outlook for whatever comes next.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. You didn’t just survive the year; you actually did things. Big things, small things, silly things, meaningful things. Give yourself a pat on the back, because honestly, just showing up and trying is half the battle. Now go forth and conquer the next one, but maybe take a moment to savor these wins first. You earned it.