Looking Inward

5 Things for a Better 2023

Over the past several years I have used the month of December to be something of a launching pad for good habits instead of a time of excess. Sure there are indulgences —like the Dresden Stollen which I dream about 11 months out of the year— but for the most part I do my best to focus at this time of year to get a running start into January. Holding back a little actually helps me to appreciate the good and rare things that happen during the holidays.

I don’t have all of the answers, but like everyone else I am always trying to be a better version of myself — trying to be happier, more effective, healthier and more present. These are some things I have been thinking about for myself leading into the new year. I’m not telling you how to live and what works for me might not work for you. These are just suggestions for things that have helped me and I hope they could be of some value to you.

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I. Organize Your Thoughts

Every December I buy a new notebook. Writing things by hand is the best way for me to commit things to memory. Paper notebooks also keep you on track and can help make us all more effective and efficient. Five favorites are:

• Makr Leather Covered Midori Notebook. Makr is a design favorite and everything that comes out of that studio is refined and considered. This Midori notebook with precision cut leather cover is the perfect expression both brands. Simple, tactile and beautiful. What else could you want?