Creating a happy home environment is vital, but ensuring that you’re taking steps to make you happier is even more important. The suggestions below can help you get there.

• January
  Try something new, such as taking up an instrument you’ve never played. Read a book from an unfamiliar author. Have a conversation with someone you might not normally speak with.

• February
  Jot down ten simple things that make you happy, and then figure out how you can make them a regular part of your life.

  

• March
  Plan for fun. Consider where and when you want to go on vacation this year, and plan your excursions, whether they are long getaways or simple day trips.

• April
  Expand your world by limiting or getting off social media. Use that time to go outside for at least fifteen minutes per day, even if it’s just sitting in the open air.

  

• May
  Focus on a positive self-image. Brainstorm for five to ten minutes about your own awesomeness. Make a collage using great photos of you and others.

• June
  Revel in the joy of music and what it brings to your life. Make a playlist of entirely new songs, including ones from genres you’ve never listened to.

  

• July
  Declare your independence from something. What, you ask? You decide! Examples could include a bad habit or negative thoughts.

• August
  Embrace thoroughness, and reject procrastination. Dedicate yourself to doing something completely every day, even a task as simple as brushing and flossing or cleaning up your bedroom (including making your bed to start the day).

  

• September
  Emphasize positivity. Follow the adage that if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all (which may be tougher than you think). Use social media for good, too—find old friends so you can tell them how much they mean to your life.

• October
  Eat better. Do what experts say: limit sugars and processed foods, and add more fruits, veggies, healthy carbs, and proteins to your diet. And drink plenty of water!

  

• November
  Try to live in another person’s shoes. Volunteer time at a food pantry or consignment shop. Eat gluten-free or go without TV, the internet, or your phone for a week. It will make you think.

• December
  In perhaps the busiest month of the year, make sure to carve out extra “you” time and space. Reflect on how you did this year, and give yourself credit for both big and small victories.

Take control of your year by putting together your own personal month-by-month action plan. Download this sheet, and fill in each month based on how you want to improve your home and your life this year.