Guide 2 the Good Life

With the new year quickly approaching, consider these unusual resolutions to improve yourself and your lifestyle.

Photo by aloalosabine @ Flickr

Sharpen & hone your kitchen knives on a regular basis.

Photo by Jeremey @ Flickr

This is probably not something most people resolve to do when the new year comes, but it is really important for your safety. The number one knife injury is due to blunt edges. When the knife edge is too dull, it will tend to slip off food (especially tricky things like onions) and slice your fingers instead. So, be weary of dull knives! If you have a good kitchen knife and don’t take care of it properly, you should be a ashamed of yourself. If you don’t have a quality kitchen knife, buy one ASAP and learn proper maintenance. Eastern and Western knives requires entirely different care and angle maintenance so make sure you (or the professional sharpening your knives) are aware of these differences. Regular sharpening and honing (edge straightening) will prolong the lifespan of your cutlery and keep your fingers intact.

Create a Cosmetic Relationship

Photo by Lorenzo Herrera @ Flickr

This one is for women (or a small population of men that enjoy makeup). You have built a qualified maintenance team with a hairdresser, manicurist, and personal trainer. But most women overlook the area of cosmetics and simply trust any salesperson’s advice. I never understood this, I mean…it’s your face. Go to the makeup counters and pick someone whose makeup application you admire, and then ask them to create a look for you (daytime, evening, special occasion). You have no obligation to buy anything, don’t get suckered. This is try before you buy, and it will be a hit or miss process. Potential benefits include tons of freebies and airkisses from your trusty lady at the counter.

Expand your Food Comfort Zone

Photo by Only Alice @ Flickr

Try a new restaurant or order a new dish at your usual dining establishments least once a month. Aim to try something you normally wouldn’t order, even if you have to start small and order a different combo at your local drive through. Or pick up an unfamiliar ingredient at the grocery store and learn to use it. You might find a new favorite, or your might hate it. But either way, you will have expanded your culinary knowledge which makes you a more well-rounded person overall!
Do your Christmas Shopping all Year Long

Photo by Davidyuweb @ Flickr

Instead of waiting for the mad rush of Black Friday sales, buy holiday gifts for loved ones slowly throughout the year. But don’t go out shopping with the intention of buying presents. Keep the needs and interests of your loves ones on your mind, and if something catches your eye, buy it–even if it’s only March. Your presents will be much more thoughtful and appreciated. By the time holiday season rolls around, you can be at home warm and toasty while everyone else must brave the horror of a December parking lot.
Cheers to a great 2008!