Have you ever heard the phrase, "new year, new you"? You probably have, and we all know it's easier said than done. By now, we're a little over 1/12 of the way into the year, which seems unfathomable to me. But as you get older, time goes by faster, and it's important to enjoy life as we progress to the point where we measure life in years instead of months.

But where do you start, you may ask? And how will you even find time to have fun amidst all the chaos of school and extracurricular commitments? Well, I find that the best way to get anything done is to make a list. That way, everything you want is on one piece of paper that you have easy access to, not to mention the motivation boosts you get when you cross something off that list.

Making a bucket list for the year is a great way to make a rough plan for what you envision for yourself. It's essentially setting yourself up for success this year and forcing you to make space in your schedule for personal time. So grab your pens (or your notes app) and see how you feel about these 12 ideas to make 2025 stand out.

1. Go to a School Performance (or Two)

I don't know about you, but when it comes to performances at school, the only things on my mind are my own. If you're one for the stage, then you know how it feels to see a full audience. This year, try being a part of that audience.

Whether it's a football game or a school play, there are countless opportunities to go to these events that you might not have even heard of before. You'll come to discover just how talented your classmates are, and who knows? Maybe some of these clubs will interest you.

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2. Join a Random Club

While a lot of people prioritize academic clubs over just-for-fun clubs, other types can be very useful too, allowing you the opportunity to meet new people and broaden your horizons. As the new semester starts and you're getting back into the flow of work, reserve just an hour or two a week to go to a club that you've never thought of joining before. While I recommend trying a relaxing one to give yourself a break, there's great value in leaving your comfort zone and joining a competition-based one. Just make sure to not spread yourself too thin.

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3. Eat a Fancy Dinner

Everyone deserves to feel fancy sometimes, and what better way to do that than splurge on a fine-dining experience? Whether you take some time each week to teach yourself to make your favorite foods or you save up for a restaurant reservation, eating a several-course meal can be a well-deserved celebration of all the things you've done. Don't forget to dress up - feeling classy is a big part of the experience!

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4. Grow a Plant

I won't lie - taking care of something is a lot of work. However, it can be so amazing to see something grow and flourish all because of your hard work. It can also be a peaceful part of your day - a built-in time to put your mind to nature and reflect.

There are so many different plants you can grow, so make sure to find one that adheres to your convenience. Maybe you don't have time to water it as much. Maybe you'd rather have one indoors than outside. Or maybe you want to grow decorative flowers instead of something you can eat. Whatever you want, there's probably a plant for it. So go out and buy some materials - it'll be worth it.

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5. Design a Room

Whether the paint doesn't sit right with you or the furniture is positioned a little awkwardly, you likely have that one room in your house that you just wish you could change. Well, I'm here to tell you that you should. Everyone deserves to have a house that feels like them, especially if it's your own bedroom you're thinking of. So if you're feeling artistic this year, talk to your parents about your plans and take a trip to your nearest Home Depot.

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6. Make Something and Sell It

The world of Etsy is a fascinating one. If you have some free time this year, consider exploring it. There are endless options when it comes to what to sell, and it gives you an excuse to learn a new type of craft.

Whether you're knitting a hat or meticulously making a custom sticker of your favorite fandom, the work you put into it will certainly pay off - and selling your products is a great way to make some money on the side. And who knows, if you enjoy it, this could become a fleshed-out business. If you're not a fan of online stores, try reaching out to friends and family to see if they can buy your products and/or give you some exposure.

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7. Have a Movie Marathon

The thing about movies - they're pretty long. You might not usually have time to commit a few hours to watching one, let alone a whole day. This is why days like these are a nice way to catch up on the backlog of movies (or even shows) that you haven't been able to see yet. Invite your friends over, microwave some popcorn, and watch a movie series!

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8. Have a Photoshoot

Photos are a window into that moment in time. They show your personal style and your passions at the time (and the haircuts that we all want to forget). Not to mention, staged photos can be great phone wallpapers or room decor.

If there's a place nearby that you've ever thought would make a great photo backdrop, take a trip there with your friends and try on some of the clothes you've been waiting for an excuse to wear. Make sure to be mindful of the weather and season, too, since some times of the year make for better photos.

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9. Find a Pen Pal

Have you ever desperately wanted to tell someone something, but couldn't think of the right friend to tell? With a pen pal, you'll never have to worry again! Talking to someone that goes to a different school, or even lives in a different country, can offer an amazing perspective on life.

You can tell them anything, without having to worry about the repercussions of telling secrets. Talking to someone who you normally never would have met can create strong and long-lasting friendships that can change your life.

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10. Change Your Look

As cliché as it sounds, a new year can mark a new beginning - in more ways than one. Creating a bucket list can give you the opportunity to try out new styles. Maybe you've seen clothes at the mall that you've been too afraid to buy.

Or maybe you just want to see if something new is right for you. Take a trip to the mall, and, even if it's just for a week, go all out when it comes to your clothes. It might even give you a boost in confidence! Studies have shown that when we look the way we want, we feel good. This year, try to broaden your horizons!

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11. Go to a School Dance

Every school does dances differently, but if there's one thing for certain, you'll find a lot of people there. Whether it's a smaller dance or Homecoming, you can certainly expect a ton of people in your grade to be there, having a great time. School dances are one of the things that truly make a high school experience, and even if you don't get your life-changing movie moment, it'll probably be a night you won't forget that easily.

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12. Donate Old Things

While you should definitely make time for yourself this year, it's important to also make time to give back to the community - and you can do both with this bucket list item! If you have a lot of clutter in your room or throughout your house, it's time to finally tackle those piles and put your things to good use. Face it - you probably don't need the old toys or clothes you've been "saving".

There are so many community centers that will give these items to people who actually do need them. If you don't know of any, try finding some online or contacting your school to see if they have any donation drives planned. You'll be able to clear your space - and consequently, your mind, all while helping out your community.

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Conclusion

If there's one thing for sure, it's that you'll never be the same as you are right now. And that might be a good thing - maybe you'll find new hobbies in the future that you like more, or maybe you'll make new friends. However, it's still important to make the most of our lives right now and treasure the things we do have.

That way, when you look back, you might regret some of the things you did, but you'll never regret not doing something. So, make a bucket list and live a year full of amazing memories!