Hygge has been popular in the UK for over a year. It means to create a relaxed and comfortable mood. It can be felt by relaxing activities like chatting with friends. Besides, hygge is also about learning to be happy with simple things. This really resonated (共鸣) with me. I feel stressed at home because my small flat is packed with much stuff. I decide to throw the things that don’t hold memories. Doing this would help me feel hygge.

Last year, lagom, a Swedish word meaning “just the right amount”, became popular. Lagom is about seeking a balance of work and life. It’s also about living more sustainably (可持续地) by saving more energy, creating less waste and recycling more.

Next year, I won’t have to replace things so often. Plus, I keep thinking about recycling and hoping to save as much money as possible. So, I can get on board with lagom.

Coming from Japan, wabi sabi is about finding beauty in imperfection. Wabi refers to the failings in the production process, which makes an object special. Sabi describes the beauty that comes with age. The tradition of wabi sabi can offer a new way to view our homes. I am a perfectionist and I keep my home tidy. But now, my girls put their toys everywhere. So, I have to see the mess and accept the imperfections.

In the Japanese concept, ikigai means “a reason for being”, which can bring satisfaction and meaning to life. Many people believe ikigai can be found at what you are good at and what you love doing. For me, it is blogging. This year I can do more writing tasks that interest me. And if I notice the things that bring me no joy, I can stay away from them in the future. Hopefully, this will help me to lead a more meaningful life.