A list of things that improved life in 2023 — from purchases to habits and small changes that made a real difference.
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Looking back on 2023 made me think about the things that genuinely worked — the items I reached for often, the habits that shifted how I feel, and the experiences that left lasting memories.
I enjoy reading other people’s “favorites” lists, so I put together my own. These roundups typically include products, activities, and habits that improve everyday life — and that’s exactly what this list is: things that made a difference for me over the last year. Some entries are familiar from earlier “Good Things” posts and some are new, but I stand behind each one.
(Note: these 12 favorites are listed in the order they came to mind while reflecting on the year, not ranked by importance.)
12 Favorite Things
1. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
After battling extreme dry lips in cold weather, I discovered that nightly application of Aquaphor Healing Ointment healed my lips completely. Daytime lip balms still help during the day, but the ointment used at night stopped the cycle of cracking and irritation regardless of the weather.
How I use it: regular balm during the day, Aquaphor before bed. If you try it, choose the Healing Ointment rather than the lip-specific balm — the ointment is thicker and more restorative.
2. One Line A Day 5 Year Memory Book
My five-year “one line a day” journal, started in 2022, became especially valuable in 2023. It’s amazing how often I’d forget events from the previous year until I looked back in the journal. Writing a sentence or two each night has become a quick, five-minute ritual that makes future reflection rewarding.
It’s simple, easy to maintain, and now that I have two years recorded, it feels even more meaningful. Highly recommended if you want a low-effort journaling habit that builds a surprising amount of memory and context over time.
3. Audiobooks
Audiobooks transformed my reading life. Many of my favorite books from 2023 were audiobooks — memoirs especially benefit when narrated by the author, and listening while cooking, cleaning, or editing photos makes it easy to experience more books. Brian and I also enjoy listening together on car trips, which makes the time pass quickly and gives us something to discuss.
I used to feel guilty calling audiobooks “reading,” but research supports that listening can be as cognitively valuable as reading print. Audiobooks expanded how many great books I could enjoy in a year.
4. Paddling
Switching one kayak for a paddle board was a surprising improvement. Brian prefers paddling on a board, and once he made the swap we both enjoyed being on the water more often. Upgrading our roof racks to hold both crafts made outings easier, so short paddles and picnic evenings became regular treats. These days I usually call it paddling rather than kayaking.
5. (Almost) Monthly Trips
I set a goal in 2023 to go somewhere or do something once a month. These outings ranged from coastal day trips to exploring nearby trails, visiting family, or celebrating holidays. They didn’t have to be costly or long — the point was to break routine, create memories, and have things on the calendar to look forward to. Scheduling them in advance made a big difference.
6. Essential Oil Roll-On for Pain
After struggling with hand pain from knitting, I tried an essential oil roll-on for pain relief. Applied before bed over sore areas, it noticeably reduced pain and shortened recovery after long knitting sessions. It hasn’t eliminated discomfort completely, but it made knitting more manageable and reduced lingering soreness.
Results may vary, but this inexpensive experiment proved helpful for me.
7. Organized Spice Cupboard
Organizing the spice cupboard was a long-overdue project that took a few hours but has paid off daily. Decanting bulk spices into uniform jars, labeling, and arranging gave me visual pleasure and practical convenience. Bigger jars hold commonly used ingredients and eliminate clutter; smaller jars store occasional-use spices. Opening the cupboard now is both efficient and satisfying.
8. Portland Leather Purse & Wallet
Discovering a local leather maker delivered a purse that fits my needs — roomy enough for essentials without bulk, and durable after months of use. I purchased during a sale and found the quality indistinguishable from full-price leather. A matching wallet tucked neatly inside makes daily use simple and organized. Supporting a smaller maker was an added bonus.
9. Window Cleaning Cloth Set
Upgrading to a dedicated window cloth set changed the dread of cleaning windows into something quick and even enjoyable. These cloths go beyond basic microfiber, removing dirt and streaks with far less effort. That combination of a wet, specialized cloth followed by a dry waffle-weave towel leaves glass crystal clear with minimal elbow grease.
10. Nuud Natural Deodorant
Nuud became an unexpected favorite because a tiny amount goes a long way and it controls odor for days. Both Brian and I still use the original tubes purchased last summer. It’s more expensive up front but extremely long-lasting and effective, which makes it cost-efficient over time. Ordering can take longer due to shipping, so subscriptions help avoid running out.
11. Strength Workouts
Switching from mostly cardio and barre to consistent strength and HIIT workouts was the biggest lifestyle change. After learning that heavier resistance is better for bone health, I committed to weekday sessions using adjustable weights and kettlebells. I follow strength routines for upper body, lower body, and full body, with HIIT sprinkled in.
The results: noticeably more strength, better balance, and less soreness after long gardening or active days. The routine stuck because I feel stronger and more capable in daily tasks.
12. Pure Protein Powders
To support increased strength training, I aimed for a higher daily protein target and added clean protein powders as supplements. Reading labels revealed how many powders include additives and sweeteners, so I sought minimally processed options. A few unflavored whey powders and collagen peptides became regular staples for adding protein to coffee, smoothies, and hot drinks. Collagen also improved nail strength and hair texture for me, and I count it as part of my protein intake along with whole-food sources.
If you prefer plant-based options, look for pea protein or other powders with minimal additives and simple ingredient lists.
I hope something on this list is useful to you in the coming year. If you’ve tried a recommendation from a “Good Things” list or have a favorite to share, I’d love to hear about it.
Disclosure: the original article contained affiliate links that may earn commission if purchases are made, which does not change the buyer’s price.