2016 New Year’s Resolutions for Astorians

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be painful. If your goal for 2016 was to break a bad habit or cut back on something you love, like coffee or chocolate, why not reward yourself with a resolution that’s actually fun? In our neighborhood, there are so many exciting things to eat, drink, learn, and experience, so let’s talk about making goals to become a more well-rounded Astorian. Here are a few ideas!

 Explore a new cuisine

Sure, our neighborhood kills it with Greek food, burgers, pizza, and comfort food, but let’s make a point to try something totally new. Plan a night out sampling Russian at Bear, Egyptian at Mombar, Peruvian at El Ancla, or Brazilian at New York Pao de Quejo, and fall in love with a new country!

Venture to a New Avenue

Do you live off 30th Avenue, but never seem to make your way to Ditmars? Have you called Broadway home for years, but 36th Ave might as well be another borough? It’s time to get your walking shoes on and visit a section of our neighborhood you might be missing!

Shop Often, Shop Local

Think of all the things you buy over the course of a month: items like clothes, shoes, beer, music, books, coffee/tea, and personal care products. Where do you get everything from? Chances are, most of the items you’re buying online or from major retailers can be purchased from a small business here in Astoria. Here’s a few suggestions:

Apparel: Brass Owl and Lockwood Style

Beer: Astoria Bier and Cheese

Books: Astoria Bookshop

Coffee/Tea: Astoria Coffee

Personal Care Products: Little Soap Shop

Music: HiFi Records (for vinyl)

Local businesses are at the heart of what makes Astoria such a special place to live, so let’s do the best we can to support them!

Break a Sweat, And Have Fun Doing It!

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to get in shape, and for good reason. When your body feels its best, life just gets a little better: your energy skyrockets, you think clearer, and you have the confidence to rock a killer night out. If sweating more in 2016 is one of your goals, Astoria has a wide variety of gyms for every interest and budget. But, don’t be afraid to think outside the box for other workout opportunities (Pilates with drumsticks, anyone?)

Learn Something New

Okay, so we’ve been eating, drinking, and working our bodies, but how about our minds? Picking up some knowledge or a new skill keeps things fresh and exciting, and no one offers a more diverse class schedule than Q.E.D. In January alone, they’re offering classes on crocheting, swing dancing, stand up comedy, and “Beer Snobbery.” I thoroughly enjoyed an earring design class they offered earlier this year, and can’t wait to try even more new things in the new year!

What are your Astoria resolutions for 2016? Share with us on Facebook and in the comments below!