21 must-haves for your 2021

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Taylor Schmitz

Be sure to start the new year off right with these 21 must-haves.

Taylor Schmitz, Staff Writer

There is no doubt that 2020 was a difficult year, to say the least. Now the time has come to leave the stress behind and finally get a chance at that fresh start we have all been anxiously waiting for. These 21 items for your 2021 will help you achieve just that:

  1. Planner

An iconic staple that everyone needs, a planner always does the job of keeping you on track. You will have no problem finding the perfect one out of the many templates and cover graphics to choose from.

  1. Your favorite candle

It has been a stressful past year for many of us and you owe it to yourself to take some time to relax and go into 2021 with a zen mindset. So, put on some relaxing music, grab your best-smelling candle and let the sweet aroma whisk you away into the new year.

  1. Reusable products

As more attention is being brought to the harmful effects of climate change, consumers have been turning to more eco-friendly options and 2021 should be no different. Do your part in helping the environment by choosing to use metal straws, reusable grocery/tote bags and biodegradable water bottles. With many of these products coming in different colors, patterns and materials, who said helping the environment wasn’t fun?

  1. Good music

A good music selection is key for getting through a year like 2020. We all feel a sense of comfort listening to our own music, but this year, I challenge you to ask for recommendations from friends and family to step outside of your music comfort zone. So, go discover a new artist or even an entirely new genre of music, because who knows, it may become your 2021 favorite.

  1. Coffee maker

As one of the greatest investments you will be sure to ever make, a coffee maker is just the thing to energize you for the new year. Brewing coffee from the comfort of my own home while saving a fortune on Starbucks? Count me in. 

  1. Face masks

No, I’m not talking about the ones that protect you from COVID-19, I’m talking about the very essential, very therapeutic, very satisfying skin-care product to ease your stress. In fact, while you are at it, you might as well set aside an entire day for self-care, you deserve it. 

  1. Face masks

Ok, now I am talking about the kind to keep you and your loved ones safe. Although the end to COVID-19 is in sight as the country’s healthcare workers roll out vaccines, it is still very important to wear a mask in public. There are also so many different colors and patterns to choose from by now, so just have fun with it and consider it as a fun addition to your outfit.

  1. The vaccine

Speaking of COVID-19, the vaccine is definitely a must-have for 2021. It’s the light at the end of the tunnel, offering 95 percent immunity with only two doses. Let us leave 2020 behind along with COVID-19.

  1. Blue light glasses

It’s no surprise that a large part of the population has switched over to digital learning and working. However, staring at a computer screen all day can have harmful effects such as damaging your eyesight. Even if you have 20/20 vision, blue light glasses are still available to you and can help with the agonizing headaches you’ve been getting recently. Just take a trip over to Amazon.com and customize your frame and prescription lenses all for around $15.

  1. Organizers

Although organization may not be considered the most “fun” and “exciting” activity in the world, it is a key life skill you should definitely consider incorporating in your 2021. Any organizer; drawer, shelf or closet, can push you to be more productive this year.

  1. Disposable camera

We’ve all seen the apps and editing tricks to add that vintage touch to your photos but nothing beats the real thing. Disposable cameras are a great way to capture fun moments with your friends or spice up your Instagram feed.

  1. Entertaining shows and movies

Looking to forget the catastrophe that is the year 2020? I suggest diving into a new television or movie series and luckily for all of us, Netflix has promised at least one new movie every week in 2021. Happy binging!

  1. Lights for your room

Getting creative with the lighting in your room does wonders in giving it a new overall vibe. Find inspiration on Pinterest or TikTok with LED lights, neon signs, fairy lights and so many others.

  1. Car accessories

One of the biggest ways to enjoy what would normally be a boring car ride is by personalizing the inside of it. From funky steering wheel covers and LED floor lights to the air freshener you use, car accessories can make driving so much more fun.

  1. Journal

Writing in a journal has always been a popular pastime, but if you haven’t tried it out yet, 2021 is the time. Pick up a cheap journal from Target or use one you already have lying around to track your progress and growth, improve your writing, find inspiration and reduce stress and anxiety.

  1. A TikTok account

If you haven’t created a TikTok account by now, you’re missing out. The social media app offers something for everyone from comedy skits to art and dance tutorials. 

  1. Fuzzy everything

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, fluffy pair of socks or a blanket that will leave you feeling oh-so-cozy while you finish up that last homework assignment or watch movies. Especially for the cold months, consider splurging on a blanket that measures at a 10/10 on the comfy scale. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

  1. Recipe book

If learning how to cook is on your list of new year’s resolutions then picking up a recipe book might just do the trick in motivating you to follow through with it. With hundreds of pages jammed packed with delicious drink, appetizer and dessert recipes, you will always find something you will like and never run out of meal ideas.

  1. Essential oil diffuser

Breathe in the clean air of 2021 with a much-needed diffuser. Not only do they come in different shapes and colors to match your room aesthetic but more importantly, your area will be filled with natural fragrances such as lavender to ease stress levels and help you fall asleep.

  1. White sneakers

The infamous white sneaker will continue to be popular in the new year and no one is complaining. The versatility is the main aspect that continues to make this color of shoe a fashion staple. With hundreds of brands and styles, you are sure to find your perfect pair.

  1. A positive attitude

Finally perhaps the most important must-have for your 2021 is a positive attitude. With all of the past events in 2020 and even the early mishaps that have happened so far, we owe ourselves a great rest of 2021, one that will be made even better by staying positive.