The New Year is just around the corner! It’s the time of year when everyone starts saying things like "New Year, New Me". Let’s be real, though—sometimes it’s more “New Year, Same Me.” (No judgment—we’ve all been there!). But here’s a thought: what if, instead of repeating those same old resolutions that didn’t make it past February, we create something fresh, fun, and actually doable?

Enter the New Year Resolutions for a Better U: a curated collection of goals that are simple, exciting, and most importantly—achievable. Nothing like climbing Mount Everest and no overnight millionaire schemes—just real, meaningful experiences that make life a little brighter (and yes, a little more financially savvy).

1. Plan a Dream Vacation (and Actually Go!)

We all dream of that perfect getaway—a quick trip to Langkawi, a staycation in Cameron Highlands, or even ticking Port Dickson off your destinations list. However, these travel dreams do not come cheap.

Here’s the tip: Start saving now. Open a Nest on Be U by Bank Islam, name it “Vacation 2025,” and stash a little money every month. Before you know it, you will be sipping coconut water by the beach. Bonus tip: Automate your savings so you don’t even have to think about it. By the time vacation season rolls around, you’ll be jetting off guilt-free—and without having to dip into your emergency fund!

2. Pick Up a New Hobby

Let 2025 be the year you say “Why not?” to new experiences. Always wanted to try pottery? Pick up a DSLR and learn photography? Or maybe, just maybe, master the art of baking? Whatever your interest may be, local workshops and classes are everywhere if you know where to look for them. Regardless, you could always self-learn with the endless tutorials and resources available online.

Who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent. And hey, at the very least, it’ll make great content for Instagram.

3. Deposit for Your Future

If your savings game is good (go you!), it might be time to take things up a notch. Be U Term Deposit-i is an effortless way for you to grow your money. Set your deposit amount, choose the tenure for your deposit, and enjoy returns when your deposit matures. Think of it as planting a money tree—set it up, let it grow, and watch as your future self thanks you.

Pro tip: Use Be U Term Deposit-i as a foundation for bigger goals, like buying a car, planning a wedding, or saving for that dream getaway.

4. Go on a Foodie Adventure

What’s life without food, right? Lucky for us, Malaysia is a foodie’s wonderland. Create a “12 Months, 12 Dishes” list for 2025 and start your culinary adventure. From Penang’s legendary char kuey teow to Sabah’s hearty ngiu chap, there’s a dish waiting to blow your taste buds away. It’s a delicious way to travel without having to break the bank.

5. Give Your Home a Mini Makeover

You don’t need an interior designer to refresh your space. Sometimes, small tweaks can make a big difference. Rearrange your furniture, add a splash of colour with new curtains, or adopt a few cute plants to brighten things up. Got bigger dreams? Say, a Pinterest-inspired bedroom or a swanky dining table? Let Nest help you save up for those projects in a more systematic and achievable way.

6. Stay Inspired with Meaningful Goals

Beyond travel, hobbies, and food, make 2025 the year you focus on what truly matters to you and your values. Volunteer for a cause, spend more time with loved ones, or master your budgeting skills with Be U. Life is about balance, after all—as they say, a little hustle and a lot of heart.

7. Celebrate Small Wins

Last but not least, celebrate U for your achievements, regardless of their size! Tick off items from your new year resolutions, treat yourself to that ayam gepuk you have been craving all week, or take a day off to do absolutely nothing. Life’s too short not to celebrate the small stuff.

2025 doesn’t have to be about massive changes—it’s about the small, meaningful steps you take to create a life that you aspire to have. So, let’s make 2025 all about achievable goals, memorable experiences, and smart choices. Who’s ready to take on their new year resolutions?

P.S. Need a financial buddy to make saving, budgeting, or investing easier? Look no further than Be U by Bank Islam. Let’s make 2025 your best year yet—financially, personally, and everything in between.