“Revolutionize Your New Year’s Goals: The Game-Changing Tech Tools You Need to Succeed”

**Making the New Year Better with Tech Tools**

Regardless of how 2024 went for you, 2025 is another chance for all of us to make the new year better than the one that came before it. New Year’s resolutions are usually set with the best intentions, but it’s no secret many people fail after just a few weeks — old habits die hard. It’s essential to have a support group, people who can cheer you on during those particularly hard days. But it’s also crucial to have the right tools to make achieving your goals easier.

Whether you’re trying to get healthy, be more organized, read more, or anything in between, there are tech tools that can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some of the best tech tools to help you achieve your goals in the new year.

**Fitness Tracker**

If you’re attempting to turn over a new, healthier leaf, you’re not alone. Fitness trackers (and their companion apps) are highly sought after this time of year because they can help you stick to those new movement, hydration, and sleep habits you’re trying to build. The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 is a good option, not only because it’s affordable at $50, but because it does pretty much everything a beginner needs. It tracks daily steps, calories, sleep, and more, and it has a two-week battery life so you can keep it on all the time and rarely have to remember to charge it.

However, if you’re already a runner or a cyclist (or want to be one), we recommend upgrading to the Fitbit Charge 6 instead. You’ll get all of the basic fitness tracking features you’d expect like daily step, sleep, and activity tracking, along with onboard GPS for mapping outdoor workouts and Fitbit Pay for contactless payments. That way, you’ll be able to go for a run in the morning and stop to grab a coffee without bringing your phone or your wallet with you.

**Smartwatch**

If you’d rather invest in an all-purpose wearable that also has serious fitness chops, the Apple Watch SE is a good choice. While it doesn’t include all the bells and whistles that the pricier Series 10 does, it still offers the same core experience. It tracks all-day activity and heart rate, and watchOS finally offers basic sleep tracking, too. In addition to built-in GPS for outdoor workouts, it tracks dozens of exercises and supports fall detection, as well as high and low heart rate alerts. It’s also quite good at automatically recognizing when you’re working out and prompting you to start tracking your efforts. On top of all that, the Apple Watch excels when it comes to table-stakes smartwatch features: You’ll be able to send and receive text messages from the device, as well as control music playback, smart home devices, and more.

Alternatively, Android users should consider the Fitbit Versa series of smartwatches. The latest model, the Versa 4, has many of the same features as Apple’s most affordable wearable, including all-day activity tracking and heart rate monitoring, built-in GPS, and even more advanced sleep tracking capabilities. It also has a lot of features you won’t find on an Apple Watch, like Alexa voice control, Google Maps, and Wallet integration, and a days-long battery life (up to six days to be precise). There are smart alerts as well, so you’ll get notified when your phone receives calls and texts. At $200, the Versa 4 is decently priced on a regular day, but you can often find it on sale for close to $150 — that could make it a good option for anyone on a budget, not just those with Android phones.

**Workout Classes**

If you’re looking to shake up your fitness routine, consider taking an online workout class. There are plenty of platforms that offer live and recorded classes, taught by expert instructors, that can help you get started with new exercises and routines. Nike Training Club and Peloton Digital are two popular options that offer a wide range of classes and workouts, including strength training, cardio, and yoga. You can try out a free trial or subscription to see what works best for you.

**Other Tech Tools for a Better New Year**

In addition to fitness trackers and smartwatches, there are plenty of other tech tools that can help you achieve your goals in the new year. Collaboration tools like Trello and Asana can help you stay organized and on top of your tasks and projects. Apps like Forest and StayFocused can help you stay focused and avoid distractions. And, of course, there are plenty of apps and tools designed to help you read more, like Scribd and Hoopla.

**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**

* Q: What are some affordable fitness trackers that I can use to track my fitness goals?
A: The Xiaomi Mi Band 8 and Fitbit Inspire 4 are two affordable options that offer tracking features and workouts.

* Q: What are some benefits of using a smartwatch?
A: Smartwatches offer features like built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, and water resistance, making them a great choice for those who want to track their fitness goals and stay connected to their phone.

* Q: What are some online workout platforms that I can use to learn new exercises and routines?
A: Nike Training Club and Peloton Digital are two popular options that offer a wide range of live and recorded classes, taught by expert instructors.

**Conclusion**

The new year is a fresh start, and with the right tools, you can make it a successful one. Whether you’re trying to get healthy, be more organized, or read more, there are plenty of tech tools available to help you achieve your goals. From fitness trackers to smartwatches and online workout platforms, you’ll find something to help you get on the right track.**Finding Fitness Classes and Staying Organized**

Exercising can feel like a chore, especially when you’re stuck in a rut. One way to make it more enjoyable is by trying out different fitness classes. There are plenty of on-demand options available, allowing you to work out from the comfort of your own home. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options for finding exercise classes and staying organized.

**Fitness Classes**

Peloton is one of the most popular on-demand fitness platforms, offering a range of classes including HIIT, strength, yoga, and outdoor running. You don’t need any special equipment to participate, and the app-only version costs just $13 per month. Apple Fitness+ is another great option, especially for those with an iPhone or Apple Watch. Alo Moves is also worth considering, focusing on yoga and pilates workouts.

**Free Exercise Resources**

If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of free exercise resources available online. Fitness Blender is a great website with hundreds of workout videos, making it easy to set a schedule and track your progress. YouTube is also a great resource, with numerous fitness channels and instructors to choose from. Heather Robertson and Move with Nicole are two popular options.

**Habit Tracker**

Accountability is key when it comes to building new habits. Keeping track of your progress is crucial, and a habit-tracking app can be a huge help. Done and Strides are two iOS options that allow you to log your progress, set reminders, and review stats. You can also customize how often you want to complete a task or break a bad habit. Streaks is another great option, available for a one-time fee of $6. For Android users, Habitica turns habit tracking into an 8-bit RPG game, making it a fun and engaging way to stay motivated.

**To-Do List Apps**

Organizing your tasks and notes can be overwhelming, but finding the right tool can help. Todoist and Things are two popular options that offer a balance between detail and simplicity. Both have a Today view, showing you everything that needs attention immediately. Todoist has a free tier, while Things costs $80 for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Microsoft’s To Do is another great option, free and available on almost every platform. You can keep your to-do list simple or dive deeper into features like due dates and sub-tasks.

**Conclusion**

Staying organized and finding the right fitness classes can make a big difference in your daily routine. Whether you’re looking for a new way to exercise or just need a little motivation, there are plenty of options available. From habit trackers to to-do list apps, there’s a tool out there for everyone. By finding what works for you, you can stay on track and achieve your goals.

**FAQs**

Q: What is the best fitness class platform?
A: The best platform for you will depend on your interests and goals. Peloton, Apple Fitness+, and Alo Moves are all popular options.

Q: Are there free exercise resources available online?
A: Yes, there are many free exercise resources available online, including Fitness Blender and YouTube fitness channels.

Q: What is the best habit tracker app?
A: The best habit tracker app for you will depend on your preferences and goals. Done, Strides, and Habitica are all popular options.

Q: What is the best to-do list app?
A: The best to-do list app for you will depend on your preferences and goals. Todoist, Things, and Microsoft’s To Do are all popular options.**Essential Apps and Accessories for a Productive Home Office**

As we approach a new year, many of us are looking for ways to streamline our work-from-home setups and make the most of our time. In this article, we’ll explore some essential apps and accessories that can help you stay organized, secure, and productive while working from home.

**Reminders and Notes**

Before we dive into the rest of the apps and accessories, let’s start with the basics. Most likely, your phone or computer came preinstalled with a reminder app like Reminders on iOS or Google Keep on Android. These apps allow you to jot down quick notes, reminders, and to-do lists, making it easier to stay on top of your tasks.

**Password Manager**

One of the most important aspects of digital security is password management. While it can be tedious to keep track of multiple passwords, a password manager like 1Password can help you stay secure and organized. With a password manager, you only need to remember one password to access all of your other accounts. 1Password also has browser extensions and apps for iOS and Android, making it easy to access your passwords on any device.

**Cable and Accessory Organizer**

With the rise of the dual-office life, it’s easy to forget important accessories like mice, charging cables, and dongles. An organizer bag like BagSmart’s tech organizers can help prevent this by providing a designated space for all of your gadgets. If you’re looking for something a bit more elevated, Bellroy’s Desk Caddy is a great option that offers a more elegant design and higher-quality materials.

**Computer Docking Station**

Finally, a computer docking station can help keep your work-from-home setup organized and clutter-free. Satechi’s Dual Dock, for example, allows you to connect to two external displays and keep your laptop, monitors, and accessories in check. Whether you use a MacBook, Windows machine, or Chromebook, there are plenty of docking station options available to suit your needs.

**FAQ**

Q: What is a password manager and why do I need one?
A: A password manager is an app that helps you generate, store, and manage all of your passwords. You only need to remember one password to access all of your other accounts, making it easier to stay secure and organized.

Q: What is a computer docking station and what are its benefits?
A: A computer docking station is a device that allows you to connect your laptop to multiple monitors, accessories, and devices. It can help keep your work-from-home setup organized and clutter-free, making it easier to stay productive and focused.

Q: Can I use a password manager and docking station with my Chromebook?
A: Yes, there are plenty of password managers and docking stations available that are compatible with Chromebooks. Be sure to do your research and choose an option that meets your specific needs and device requirements.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, these essential apps and accessories can help you stay organized, secure, and productive while working from home. From password managers to docking stations, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and device requirements. By investing in these tools, you can streamline your work-from-home setup and make the most of your time. Happy organizing!**Kitchen Essentials for the Modern Cook**

Cooking can be a daunting task, especially when you’re just starting out. With the wide variety of tools and gadgets available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll cover four essential kitchen tools that every modern cook should have: a multicooker, air fryer, recipe organization app, and reading apps.

**Multicookers and Air Fryers**

Eating healthier and avoiding takeout can be challenging, which is why multicookers and air fryers are so important. A multicooker like the Instant Pot can help you cook complex meals quickly and easily, while an air fryer like the Instant Vortex Plus can help you cook healthier versions of your favorite fried foods.

The Instant Pot Duo is a great option for beginners, as it combines seven different cooking methods into one appliance. For a more space-friendly option, consider the Instant Pot Mini. If you’re cooking for a larger group, the Instant Pot Duo 6-quart model is a great choice.

Air fryers are a great way to cook healthier versions of your favorite fried foods. The Instant Vortex Plus is a top pick due to its six cooking modes, odor-removing filter, and window that lets you see into the machine during cooking.

**Recipe Organization**

Recipe organization is key to becoming a successful cook. Recipe cards are a great way to keep your favorite recipes handy, while a recipe book can help you store and organize recipes over time. But for the digital age, a recipe management app like Paprika is a great option. With Paprika, you can enter and save recipes, make grocery lists, and keep track of pantry staples.

**Reading Apps**

Finally, staying up-to-date with the latest cooking trends and techniques is important. Reading apps like Paprika, Cookpad, and Kitchen Stories can help you stay inspired and motivated in the kitchen. With these apps, you can access thousands of recipes, learn new cooking techniques, and even watch cooking videos.

**FAQs**

Q: What is a multicooker, and what can I use it for?

A: A multicooker is an electric cooking device that can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, and rice cooking. You can use it to cook complex meals quickly and easily.

Q: What is an air fryer, and what can I use it for?

A: An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses little to no oil to cook a variety of foods, including fries, chicken, and vegetables. You can use it to cook healthier versions of your favorite fried foods.

Q: What is Paprika, and how does it work?

A: Paprika is a recipe management app that allows you to enter and save recipes, make grocery lists, and keep track of pantry staples. You can also use it to access thousands of recipes and learn new cooking techniques.

Q: What are some other cooking apps I can use?

A: There are many other cooking apps available, including Cookpad, Kitchen Stories, and MasterClass. These apps can help you stay inspired and motivated in the kitchen, and can even guide you through complex cooking techniques.

**Conclusion**

Cooking can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and apps, you can become a successful cook in no time. The four essentials discussed in this article – multicookers, air fryers, recipe organization apps, and reading apps – can help you cook complex meals quickly and easily, and stay inspired and motivated in the kitchen. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your cooking to the next level, these essentials are a great place to start.**Breaking the Cycle of Doom-Scrolling: Finding Alternative Uses for the Internet and Exploring E-Reading Options**

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, many of us make resolutions to curb our habits, particularly those that involve excessive internet browsing. One common culprit is doom-scrolling, where we mindlessly browse social media, news, and other online content for hours on end. By adopting a few simple strategies, you can break this habit and discover new ways to engage with the internet.

**Discovering the Libby App**

One of the best tools to combat doom-scrolling is the Libby app, powered by Overdrive. This app connects you with your local library’s digital collection, enabling you to borrow and download a wide range of e-books, audiobooks, magazines, graphic novels, and more. The Libby app also features a tagging system, which allows you to “save” titles for later without putting a hold on them. This feature is particularly useful for audiobook enthusiasts, as you can easily find and borrow new titles when you’re ready.

**Exploring Alternative Subscription Services**

While Libby is an excellent resource, there may be instances where your local library lacks the title you’re seeking. In such cases, consider subscription services like Kindle Unlimited or Everand (formerly Scribd). Both services offer unlimited access to a vast library of e-books for a monthly fee of $10. For audiobook enthusiasts, Amazon’s Audible and Libro.fm are excellent alternatives, with Libro.fm allowing you to choose your local bookstore and support your community.

**The Benefits of Ereaders**

Ereaders remain a popular choice among book enthusiasts due to their high-contrast, e-paper displays and ability to focus your attention on reading. While you can read on smartphones and tablets, staring at these screens for extended periods can be tiring for your eyes. An ereader like the Kobo Clara Colour or Amazon Kindle offers a more comfortable reading experience, allowing you to’:

* Enjoy a high-contrast display
* Adjust brightness and temperature to reduce eye strain
* Read for extended periods without distractions
* Access your digital library and purchase e-books with ease

**The Best Ereader Options**

* The Kobo Clara Colour is our top pick in our best ereader guide, featuring a 6-inch color E Ink display, adjustable brightness, weeks-long battery life, and seamless Overdrive integration for digital library books.
* The latest Kindle is the best option for Amazon Prime members, offering the ability to listen to Audible audiobooks and connect wireless earbuds for a portable listening experience.

**FAQs**

1. **What is the Libby app?**

The Libby app is a digital borrowing platform that connects you with your local library’s digital collection, allowing you to borrow e-books, audiobooks, magazines, graphic novels, and more.

2. **How does the tagging system work in the Libby app?**

The tagging system in the Libby app enables you to “save” titles for later without putting a hold on them, making it easy to find and borrow audiobooks when you’re ready.

3. **What are the benefits of using an ereader?**

Ereaders offer a high-contrast display, adjustable brightness and temperature, and weeks-long battery life, making them a comfortable and distraction-free option for reading.

4. **Can I use my smartphone or tablet to read instead of an ereader?**

While you can read on your smartphone or tablet, staring at these screens for extended periods can be tiring for your eyes. Ereaders are a better choice for a more comfortable and focused reading experience.

**Conclusion**

Breaking the cycle of doom-scrolling and finding alternative uses for the internet can be a liberating experience. By exploring the Libby app and subscription services like Kindle Unlimited and Audible, you can discover new ways to engage with the internet and enjoy your favorite books without the distractions. Additionally, investing in an ereader can provide a comfortable and focused reading experience, allowing you to enjoy your favorite books for hours on end. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to a happier, more balanced relationship with the internet.