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There is something about the beginning of a new year that inspires me to want to learn something new.  It’s too cold to spend a lot of time outdoors and one just wants to curl up by a cozy fire and read a good book.  Why not take that time to read about something new? Or take up a hobby you’ve always wanted to try? 

I think it should be a priority to pick at least one new thing each year to learn.  Our minds were meant to absorb and expand on knowledge. So, today, think of something you have always wanted to learn and do it.  It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.  There are plenty of videos on the internet and books that can teach you just about anything for free or a relatively small amount of money. 

Here are some great ideas of things to learn this year:

Cooking

If you are not already a decent cook but have thought about doing a little more cooking this year and a little less take out, than take a cooking class, look up some YouTube videos, or simply crack open a cookbook and practice.  A lot of people find immense enjoyment in creating fabulous meals.  Maybe you’ll be one! 

Photography

This is my pick for something to learn this year.  I have always enjoyed photography and have dabbled in it from time to time.  This year, though, I hope to kick it up a notch.  Perhaps take a few classes and practice far more frequently.  I have book I bought last year that is basically a 20-week course in photography.  I’m finally going to do it. 

Language

Everyone could benefit from learning a second language.  Especially one that may be used more frequently in your area.  For us in the U.S., that would be Spanish.  Sadly,I took 4 years of Spanish in high school and only remember some basic words and phrases.  I have always been interested in learning French because it is such a beautiful language.  Maybe you have a place you plan to travel one day?  Learn the language of that place before you visit to make your experience more real.  As a side note, I have had some decent success learning another language from Rosetta Stone.  I have only taken French 1, but I actually have retained a lot of what I have learned so it is worth looking into.

Dance

Dancing just sounds like a fun way to learn something new and also get your exercise in.  I would love to learn Salsa.  Perhaps you have always wanted to learn ballroom dancing or swing dancing?  Or maybe something a little less couple required like hip hop, ballet, or tap? Find a local class and join in! Check your local papers, meetup groups, etc.  You may be able to find free or low cost classes.

History

If you’re looking for something to learn that merely requires reading, think about learning some history.  I know we all took history in school but I doubt many us remember a lot from it. Pick up a good book like A People’s History of the United States byHoward Zinn.  This book is full details that we never learned in school with the sources to back them up.  It is a very interesting read but I must confess it takes a great deal of time to get through.  You can really only read it a little at a time because it has so much information but it is well worth it and very interesting.  It should really be a must-read for everyone. 

It doesn’t have cost a lot of money.  There are plenty of videos on the internet and books that can teach you just about anything for free or a relatively small amount of money.