This is definitely your favorite New Year's resolution

It is 2024 and that means shaking up the sheets, tightening the belt, and tackling all those other things you've been putting off nicely in December. I have a good resolution that you will definitely like. It's good for you, for the world, and for your wallet. Dealing sustainably with energy. Small effort, great pleasure. Because living more sustainably is a much nicer resolution than losing a kilo, right? I have some tips that will help you.

1. Can it be a degree cooler?
You can safely lower the thermostat a few hours before you go to bed. Your room won't cool down quickly, so you won't notice it, but your consumption will go down. When you go to sleep, you could set the thermostat to 15. Sleeping in a cold room is very healthy.

2. Shower for two songs
I find showering the best thing ever, but to be honest, stopping after ten minutes is just as hard as stopping after three minutes. Sometimes it's hard to estimate how long you've been in the shower. That's why I sometimes set my alarm or, and this is much more fun, I put on an active playlist on Spotify and I can’t shower for longer than two songs.

3. Play games together
Try to hold on to that cozy December feeling by playing games together or reading a book. And if you really have an uncontrollable urge to watch Netflix, you could watch on your iPad instead of on the TV. That makes a big difference.

4. Do you remember those nice knitted socks?
That you received for Christmas. How cozy to put those on. Feels homey and snug, and you’re nice and warm.

6. Unplug that plug
Phantom consumption, do you know that word? That's what happens when devices are on standby or plugs like your charger are in the socket. You could take your devices out of standby mode and unplug, for example, your phone charger from the socket.

7. Long live your laptop
Did you know that it consumes less power than a desktop computer? If you are working on a desktop computer, it helps to turn off your screen during breaks. That is the biggest power hog.

8. Close that door
Door closers (so springs that ensure your door closes immediately) help against open doors and closed doors prevent cold air from entering or warm air from escaping. And while you're at it with your doors, check if you can provide extra coverage at the bottom. You can order those handy ‘strips’ that curl around the bottom of your door so that no drafts come through.

We have much more inspiration for good resolutions and share tips that make it easier to stick to them. Check out essent.nl/good-resolutions.