Life-Changing Discoveries: My Top 12 Favorite Things from 2023 for a Better Life

A curated list of the things that significantly improved my life in 2023, encompassing everything from impactful purchases and enriching activities to transformative habits and lifestyle shifts.

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As another year draws to a close, it’s natural to reflect on the journey, the growth, and the moments that shaped us. For me, part of looking back on 2023 involved pondering the elements that truly resonated and made a tangible difference in my daily existence. I considered the items I used consistently, the experiences that altered my perspective, and the practices that enriched my memories.

This introspection led me to compile a comprehensive list of my absolute favorite things from the past year. I’m excited to share these with you, as I always enjoy discovering what others cherish in their lives, hoping to uncover new gems that might also enhance mine. These types of lists, often titled “what worked for me,” “life-saving essentials,” or “things I adore,” all converge on a common theme: spotlighting products, activities, and habits that genuinely uplift everyday living.

So, here it is: a curated collection of the things that profoundly impacted my life throughout 2023. Some of these may be familiar from my past “Good Things Lists,” while others are making their debut. Rest assured, each item has earned my unwavering endorsement – they are truly my favorites!

(For clarity, the following 12 items are presented in no specific order, simply as they came to mind during my reflections on the year and review of previous positive experiences.)

My 12 Most Loved Discoveries & Habits from 2023

1. Aquaphor Healing Ointment: My Lip Savior

Towards the end of 2022, I started experiencing severe dry lip issues, particularly as the weather turned colder. Initially, I suspected a vitamin B deficiency, having dealt with that before. However, a trip to Hawaii in November of 2022 saw my lips completely heal, only for the dryness to return a few weeks after I came home. It became undeniably clear that cold weather was the primary culprit.

I embarked on a quest for relief, trying an array of specialty lip balms and even pure Vaseline, applying them diligently throughout the day. While these products offered temporary reprieve, they merely kept the extreme dryness at bay; they never truly healed the underlying problem. That’s when Aquaphor Healing Ointment entered my life. This remarkable product worked wonders, completely restoring my lips to health at the beginning of 2023. I’ve since made it a cornerstone of my nightly routine, applying it almost every evening, and my lips have remained smooth and hydrated, regardless of the harsh weather conditions.

My application tip: I continue to use various lip balms during the day for maintenance and sun protection, but the Aquaphor ointment is reserved exclusively for nighttime application before bed. This concentrated overnight treatment seems to be the key to its effectiveness.

A crucial distinction: If you’re considering trying this, be sure to purchase the Aquaphor Healing Ointment, not the ‘lip repair’ version. While the lip repair is good, it functions more like a traditional lip balm. It’s the unique formulation of the ointment that provides superior healing and protection, creating a lasting barrier.

2. One Line A Day 5 Year Memory Book: A Portal to the Past

The year 2023 truly highlighted the immense value of the “one line a day, five year journal” I began in 2022. I cannot adequately express how many times this simple practice saved me from forgetting significant events from just the previous year. It has become an invaluable tool for recalling details, such as who hosted Thanksgiving or specific activities we enjoyed on a particular date. Moreover, it serves as a wonderful conversation starter, allowing me to easily remind friends and family of past shared experiences.

Since January 1st, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing two years’ worth of daily entries, encompassing everything from activities and fleeting thoughts to profound reflections. This ongoing chronicle has proven to be incredibly fun and profoundly life-affirming, so much so that I enthusiastically recommend it to everyone I meet!

A significant part of its appeal lies in its simplicity. It’s arguably the easiest form of journaling imaginable – you merely jot down a sentence or two capturing a highlight or thought from your day. It has seamlessly integrated into my evening routine, taking no more than five minutes, which means I never feel the need to postpone it. When I first introduced this journal on a Good Things List in 2022, I noted how excited I was not only to maintain consistency but also to anticipate the joy of looking back at those pages in the future. I can now confirm that this sentiment is profoundly true. The ability to revisit past days is so rewarding that I genuinely don’t want to miss a single entry, fearing I’ll miss out on future nostalgic moments.

The specific journal I cherish and keep on my bedside table is available here, though you can find various covers to suit your style. It comes with my highest recommendation!

3. Audiobooks: Expanding My Reading Horizons

Audiobooks have revolutionized my reading life over the past few years, and 2023 was a stellar year for them. Remarkably, almost all the books featured on my “2023 best books” list were experienced in audio format! I didn’t consciously realize this until after compiling the list, but the reasons quickly became apparent:

• Memoirs read by authors: Two of my top reads were memoirs, and for this genre, I consistently opt for audiobooks, especially when they’re narrated by the author. Hearing their own voice adds an unparalleled layer of intimacy and authenticity to their stories.
• Seamless integration into daily life: I find listening to a series particularly engaging because the pace feels more consistent. My days often afford more opportunities for passive listening than for dedicated, seated reading. I can effortlessly immerse myself in a story while performing routine tasks that don’t demand intense brain power, such as cleaning, cooking, or editing photos.
• Shared experiences with Brian: A couple of the books Brian and I enjoyed were audiobooks we listened to together. This habit, which we started a few years ago, not only makes long car trips fly by but also fosters a wonderful shared experience, providing us with rich topics for discussion and connection.

I recall a time, after realizing I had read zerobooks in 2015 and striving to read more, when I felt a tinge of guilt classifying audiobooks as “reading.” However, since then, I’ve encountered numerous articles and scientific studies that affirm audiobooks are just as beneficial and cognitively engaging as reading physical or digital books (which I still do, extensively!). They have undeniably opened the door to a vast library of wonderful stories I might never have experienced otherwise due to time constraints. Thus, I no longer hesitate to share my love for audiobooks. They are absolutely working wonders for me!

4. Paddling: A New Shared Adventure

I’ve always had a deep affection for kayaking. While Brian would join me, he never quite shared my enthusiasm. He often found the kayak seat cramped, leading to back discomfort. It’s simply harder to fully enjoy an activity when you’re aware that your companion isn’t having the best time, even if they never complain (Brian was always gracious and made an effort because he knew how much I loved it – I’m simply explaining the dynamic, not complaining about him!).

A few years ago, Brian had the opportunity to try a friend’s paddleboard and absolutely loved the experience. However, since we already owned kayaks, the idea of getting a paddleboard remained on the back burner. That changed dramatically this past year when I finally suggested selling his kayak and replacing it with a paddleboard. I realized we didn’t both have to do the exact same thing; as long as we were out on the water together, I was perfectly content!

And let me tell you, this decision has been the absolute BEST thing! He adores his paddleboard, I still love my kayak, and consequently, we spent more time on the water last year than ever before. This newfound shared enjoyment has truly revitalized our outdoor adventures. We also upgraded the racks on our car to accommodate both a kayak and a paddleboard (previously, they only held kayaks). This seemingly small change made loading and unloading both much easier, enabling us to embark on spontaneous, shorter paddles, like the one pictured above at a nearby lake for a romantic anniversary picnic dinner.

Now, I just need to remember to call our outings “paddling” instead of “kayaking”!

5. (Almost) Monthly Trips: Prioritizing New Experiences

In 2023, I made a conscious goal to embark on a trip or activity outside our usual routine at least once a month. I had noticed that if I didn’t deliberately schedule these excursions on my calendar or add them to my to-do list, months would slip by where we rarely ventured far from home (you know, away from the daily grind). This habit of neglecting planned outings often left me feeling restless and as if we weren’t fully embracing life’s possibilities.

These weren’t always elaborate or expensive journeys. Our adventures varied widely: we explored the breathtaking Oregon coast, hiked a local trail we’d always wanted to discover, enjoyed stays with family, and celebrated holidays in different locales. Some were multi-day excursions, while others were simple day trips. Yet, regardless of their scale, each trip served its essential purpose: to provide a much-needed break from our everyday routine, offer opportunities to connect with others, and give us something exciting to anticipate.

The act of setting this goal and diligently adding these trips to our calendar truly *worked*. It proved far more effective than the previous approach of last-minute scrambles for hotel rooms or the disheartening realization that a season had passed, along with the opportunities to enjoy certain activities. This proactive planning brought a wonderful rhythm of anticipation and novelty to our year, fostering cherished memories and a greater sense of fulfillment.

6. Essential Oil Roll-On for Pain: A Surprising Relief

This particular discovery was a complete and utter surprise to me! For the past couple of years, I’ve battled persistent hand pain, which I suspect is arthritis, particularly in my left hand after periods of intense knitting. If I indulge in a knitting spree, my hand can ache for days, making even simple tasks uncomfortable. I had tried various remedies with little lasting success.

So, when I stumbled upon the glowing testimonials for this specific essential oil blend for pain, I decided to give it a try. Given its reasonable price, I figured I had nothing to lose. I opted for the convenient roll-on format, and now, whenever I experience hand pain, I simply roll it liberally over the affected area before heading to bed. The ease of application is a huge plus, as it requires no messy measuring or mixing.

And it worked! Believe it or not, this blend genuinely decreased the intensity of the pain in my hand. Furthermore, since I began using it regularly at the first sign of even a slight ache, I no longer endure days of incapacitating pain after prolonged knitting sessions. While it hasn’t completely eradicated the pain, it significantly lessens it, making the discomfort far more manageable and allowing me to continue enjoying knitting for more than just a few minutes at a time. I’m truly delighted when natural remedies like this prove effective, though I always acknowledge that results can vary for individuals. If you’ve tried this product, I would be genuinely interested to hear about your experience!

You can explore the Restore Essential Oil Blend here.

7. Spice Cupboard Organization: A Daily Delight

Without a doubt, organizing my spice cupboard stands out as one of those tasks I genuinely wish I had tackled much, much sooner. After moving into our farmhouse, I procrastinated on this project for a full three years. Why? I still ask myself that! The disarray was a constant source of frustration, making cooking less enjoyable than it should be.

While the process itself did require a few dedicated hours – sorting through every spice, decanting them into new jars, meticulously labeling each one, and then arranging them in a logical system – the effort has been immeasurably worthwhile. This cupboard is a space I interact with almost daily, and the transformation has made finding specific ingredients so much faster and more efficient. No more rummaging or guessing!

Beyond the functional improvements, there’s also an aesthetic pleasure that brings a smile to my face. I absolutely adore opening the cupboard and seeing Brian’s aunt’s charming little vintage mason jars, now uniformly topped with matching zinc lids (I’ve since replaced the few white lids pictured with all zinc ones). This cohesive look adds a touch of vintage elegance to my kitchen.

The larger jars proved to be perfect for storing spices and herbs I purchase in bulk and use frequently, such as bay leaves or cinnamon sticks. This eliminated the clutter of numerous small bags and supplementary jars that wouldn’t fit into the smaller spice containers. The original smaller spice jars now house ingredients I use only occasionally (like marjoram) or in very small quantities (like cayenne pepper), ensuring everything has its proper, easily accessible place.

If you’re inspired to achieve a similar blend of vintage charm and practical function, here are some recommendations for jars that would work beautifully:

• A 12-pack of 1/2-pint mason jars with gently sloping sides, offering a classic aesthetic.
• A 30-pack of 8-oz sloped side jars with attractive gold lids, providing ample storage.
• Alternatively, you can achieve a similar vintage look by using reproduction zinc lids on standard 4-ounce mason jars you might already own.

8. Portland Leather Purse & Wallet: Quality and Value

I am incredibly pleased to have discovered Portland Leather Goods, a company that feels somewhat local to me and produces truly exceptional products. I have absolutely adored the purse I purchased a few months ago. It’s the ideal size for my needs, accommodating all my essentials without feeling bulky or cumbersome. The craftsmanship and quality of the leather are evident, giving it a luxurious feel.

A significant bonus was being able to order from their “Almost Perfect Sale,” which runs consistently and offers fantastic savings. Honestly, even after months of daily use, I cannot discern any difference between my “almost perfect” leather purse and a standard, full-priced one. It looks just as pristine as the day I bought it, showcasing the remarkable durability of their products.

The company also offers occasional sales, and during Black Friday, I took advantage of a deal to purchase a matching wallet (also from the almost perfect collection). It fits perfectly into my purse, completing a beautifully cohesive set. My daughter has also purchased a couple of their purses and loves them, noting that one came from their outlet store in Portland – so if you’re ever near their Gladstone store, it’s worth checking out for even more deals.

If you’re considering making a purchase, I have a coupon code for you! Click this link to receive 30% off your first order of $100 or more. It’s an excellent opportunity to invest in high-quality, long-lasting leather goods.

9. Window Cleaning Cloth Set: Effortless Shine

I admit, I was influenced by online recommendations to purchase this seemingly expensive cleaning cloth set specifically for windows. Initially, I was skeptical, thinking, “It’s just microfiber, how different can it be?” However, months later, I am still genuinely awestruck by its performance and efficacy. It goes far beyond the capabilities of basic microfiber cloths, transforming the dreaded chore of window and mirror cleaning into a surprisingly quick, efficient, and consistently streak-free experience (a feat my regular microfiber cloths never truly achieved).

Since acquiring the set, my window cleaning routine has been revolutionized. I simply wet the darker green cloth – which boasts a noticeably different fabric texture than standard microfiber – and use it to wipe down both the exterior and interior of my windows, as well as all my mirrors. After this initial wipe, I follow up with the dry, waffle-weave, microfiber-ish towel. This second step effortlessly dries and polishes the surfaces, leaving everything crystal clear with an astonishingly minimal amount of elbow grease. The satisfaction of seeing a perfectly clear, streak-free pane without endless buffing is truly unparalleled.

No longer do I dread the task of cleaning windows; in fact, I almost look forward to it now! You can find the highly effective Window Cleaning E-Cloth Set here.

10. Nuud Natural Deodorant: Game-Changer for Odor Control

Here’s another product I feel compelled to shout about from the rooftops: Nuud Natural Deodorant! This stuff is truly nothing short of amazing. The application is incredibly simple: you use a tiny, pea-sized amount (or even less!), rub it into your armpits, and then it works effectively for *days*. I am not exaggerating – it provides odor protection for up to three days, even with showering in between applications. This longevity is a massive advantage over conventional deodorants.

Brian and I are still working on our first tubes, which I purchased last summer! The incredible longevity means that, despite a slightly higher upfront cost compared to regular natural deodorants, it proves to be incredibly cost-effective in the long run. However, its economic benefit isn’t the sole reason for its inclusion on this list. Yes, it lasts longer, and yes, it’s made with natural ingredients – but for me, the most compelling selling point is its unparalleled effectiveness.

Nuud truly works to eliminate odor completely – you simply don’t smell at all! (And if Brian, who was initially quite skeptical when I first started using it, is now a firm believer, you know it really delivers on its promise.) The complete absence of body odor is a remarkable and freeing experience.

There is one minor drawback: Nuud is a European product, so shipping can take several weeks to arrive in other regions. They do offer a subscription option, which is a smart way to ensure you never run out, but otherwise, you need to plan ahead to order your next tubes. Despite this small logistical consideration, the benefits far outweigh it.

You can learn more about this incredible deodorant and its natural ingredients, along with helpful usage tips, and get yours here.

11. Strength Workouts: A Foundation for Health and Vitality

This entry represents arguably the most significant and transformative change in my life this past year. I shifted from a routine of three cardio and Barre3 workouts per week to an intensive schedule of five to six days a week dedicated to strength and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts. This new regimen, which I’ve consistently maintained every weekday morning since last February, has now firmly cemented itself as an indispensable habit.

The catalyst for this drastic change was a discouraging osteoporosis diagnosis at the end of 2022, despite years of engaging in bone-strengthening activities and consuming bone-friendly foods. After extensive research, I came to the crucial realization that cardio and the light weights typically used in Barre classes simply weren’t sufficient for optimal bone health. This prompted me to seek out a program that offered robust, dumbbell-based home workouts. I started with lighter dumbbells, gradually investing in heavier ones each month until my at-home gym is now quite adequately stocked.

While I thoroughly enjoyed the workouts offered by the 6-week program I initially joined (Faster Way), their eating program didn’t quite align with my needs (it felt like too much food). However, I did appreciate learning how to use macros to better balance my diet. Now, I utilize the Macros First app a few times a week to track my intake and ensure I’m meeting my nutritional goals. My current workout schedule includes one kettlebell HIIT session, one regular HIIT session, and three strength training sessions each week (focusing on upper body, lower body, and total body), which I largely discover through free resources on YouTube. (I’ve also heard excellent feedback about the workouts available at Sadie Active and Paragon Training.)

Why have I diligently maintained this rigorous training for almost an entire year? The answer is simple: I feel so much stronger and more capable! During the intense gardening season, I often spend 4-6 hours outdoors, which involves a tremendous amount of bending, hauling, digging, and other physically demanding tasks. In previous years, after such a “gardening marathon,” I would be almost immobilized the next day, struggling with stiffness and soreness. Last summer, however, that problem was virtually non-existent! My back pain was significantly reduced, and while I still experienced some muscle soreness, I could move freely and felt nowhere near as stiff. I love the newfound ease with which I can lift heavy objects, and I’ve noticed a marked improvement in my balance and core strength. Plus, I must admit, I quite enjoy how my arms look now!

12. Pure Protein Powders: Fueling My Strength Journey

Given my increased emphasis on strength training, my protein requirements have significantly risen. Previously, I estimate I was consuming around 60-75 grams of protein daily (though I wasn’t meticulously tracking it), but my current goal is to consistently achieve at least 100 grams per day. While my primary focus remains on obtaining protein from whole, real food sources such as lean meats, poultry, legumes, and whole grains, supplementing with protein powders has proven to be an invaluable and convenient way to reliably meet my daily target.

However, as soon as I began scrutinizing the labels of the countless protein powders on the market, I was genuinely shocked by the sheer volume of unnecessary additives and artificial ingredients they contained – wow! It was quite disheartening to realize that products marketed for health and fitness were often loaded with artificial sweeteners, flavors, preservatives, and other questionable components. You literally cannot find truly clean protein powders on store shelves; the purest options invariably require an online purchase.

After extensive research, I’ve identified a couple of whey-based pure protein powder brands that I now regularly purchase, along with a collagen supplement. These align with my commitment to minimizing additives:

• Naked Whey Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder: This product boasts an incredibly simple and transparent ingredient list: it contains only one ingredient – whey protein. Discovering this after my frustrating search through store offerings was a huge relief. It is completely unflavored and blends effortlessly into smoothies, hot beverages like coffee or tea, and even baked goods. The primary considerations with this brand are its higher price point and occasional availability challenges. I typically add half a scoop to each of the two cups of coffee I enjoy every morning (a full scoop made one cup a bit too milky), providing an easy 12.5 grams of protein to start my day.
• Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Concentrate Powder, Unflavored: When Naked Whey isn’t readily available, this brand serves as an excellent alternative. It’s almost as pure, containing sunflower lecithin in addition to whey protein, but crucially, it’s about half the price of Naked Whey. It dissolves just as easily and imparts no discernible flavor to my coffee, making it a seamless addition to my routine. Each scoop delivers 11.5 grams of protein.
• Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: There’s a considerable amount of conflicting information regarding whether collagen should be counted towards one’s daily macro protein intake. Some sources advise against it because it’s not a “complete protein” (lacking one or more essential amino acids), while many others suggest it can be included. For a while, I hesitated, but then I realized we routinely count protein from many incomplete sources like beans. So, I decided to include it, especially since it’s not my sole protein source, making its “incompleteness” less of an issue. I add a scoop to my tea twice a day, contributing an additional 12 grams of protein. However, the most compelling reason I take this daily is its truly remarkable impact on my nail strength – it’s been a huge, noticeable improvement. My hair also feels thicker, and I’m hopeful it’s exerting similar positive effects on my bone health!

For those seeking plant-based alternatives, prioritize finding options with the fewest additives, such as this Naked brand of pea protein. (I personally found that pea protein in many plant-based powders often has a distinct flavor, and many formulations tend to include a long list of ingredients, which is why I generally stick with whey-based options.)

I sincerely hope that something on this comprehensive list of my favorite things from 2023 resonates with you and makes a positive difference in your life in the coming year! If you’ve already tried something mentioned here after seeing it on a Good Things List, please share your experience in the comments below. Alternatively, if you have a product, activity, or habit that has genuinely improved your life, I’d love to hear about it – I’m always looking for new discoveries!

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