35 Things That’ll Help You Start 2019 On A High Note

🎶I feel it in my fingers, I feel it in my toes... 2019 is going to be an awesome year🎶

1. A low-maintenance countertop garden so you can make your own pesto from scratch and have an endless supply of fresh herbs for all kinds of recipes. Delish!

Macy's

The kit includes the countertop garden, Genovese basil, curly parsley, dill, mint, thyme, Thai basil, and Miracle-Gro plant food. It'll alert you when the plants need more food or water, so you don't need a green thumb for it to work! Check out our full review on the Goodful Aerogarden.

Get it from BuzzFeed's Goodful line, exclusively at Macy's for $189.99 (available in two colors).

2. Care/Of — a personalized vitamins subscription you'll actually look forward to taking every day.

instagram.com

Check out our full review of Care/of!

Subscriptions start at $5/month.

3. A pretty planner for writing down important dates and daily to-do lists so you're always on top of everything.

Amazon

This planner runs from January to December 2019. In addition to monthly, weekly, and daily sections, it includes a personal mission statement prompt, yearly goal setting page, weekly scheduling templates, goal setting and tracking pages, 2019 vision board, major holidays list, notes pages, contacts/address book pages, inspirational quotes, monthly reflection questions, and more.

Get it from Amazon for $16.95.

4. A dryer + styling brush to give you smooth and volumious locks in no time. New hair, who dis?

Amazon, amazon.com

Promising review: "I have a lot of hair. A LOT. Like, wow, who-is-that-Wookiee-over-there LOTS. I have looked into having a third arm surgically implanted (Is this a thing? Who would do it? Vascular surgery? Orthopedic surgery? These are the questions that keep me up at night. 🤔) because my shoulders are so tired holding up a dryer and a round brush for eternity. I briefly considered making a workout video (Toned Arms: the Hairdryer Workout) but was informed by fitness people that there isn’t a market for a 75-minute focus on the anterior deltoids. I almost have to wake up BEFORE I GO TO SLEEP in order to have enough time to dry my hair before work.

This thing took me eight minutes. I naturally assumed, upon finishing, that I had entered some sort of Amazon-created beauty time warp. I checked with my husband, in the next room, and in fact, I did not go through a blowout wormhole. The silkier-than-silk style was accomplished by this miracle of a brush in eight minutes (several more minutes were lost to running my hands through my hair and flicking it over my shoulder while smiling coquettishly in the mirror).

If you struggle with an overabundance of hair like I do, seriously consider giving this amazing contraption a try." —Chris

Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (available in two colors).

5. A gratitude journal so you can reflect on all the wonderful people and moments in your life on a daily basis.

Amazon

Promising review: "Just started using this journal after being in a bit of a funk at the start of this year. I researched many different journals but this was the only one that I felt was simple, that didn't make too many 'demands' on my time, that was straightforward — in short, exactly what I was looking for. It's a simple concept, and I've only been doing it for a week, but I find myself looking for things to be thankful for and adding lines below the three provided and writing in the margins, all because I want to." —silkeymilkey

Get it from Amazon for $5.84.

6. A pack of acne-zapping pimple patches because zits have no right to ruin your day!

Soko Glam

Promising review: "It really does zap your pimples overnight so instead of it taking days to finally get rid of them, you’ll be able to see instant results with just one application! Get them now!" —Alison P.

Get one from Soko Glam for $5 or a three-pack from Amazon for $11.

7. An Echo Spot for catching up on the news before work or catching up with family via video chat — and that's just two of the many, many things this lil' gadget can do.

Amazon

You can use the Echo Spot to watch video flash briefings, see music lyrics, weather forecasts, to-do and shopping lists, browse and listen to Audible audiobooks, and more — all via voice command. You can also ask Alexa to turn on smart home devices, make calls, or order an Uber.

Promising review: "I just love this thing. Even if it were little more than an alarm clock, I'd love it — it just looks so good. But it's so much more. This was my first foray into a digital assistant that's not on my phone. The number of 'skills' you can enable for it is mind-boggling. I started with having it control our bedside lights. Of course, there's all the usual alarms, weather, general knowledge searches, even games (I particularly like True or False. It'll make a statement and ask if you think it's right. It also keeps score. Great way to pick up interesting facts). I've also connected it to my Arlo security camera. So I just need to say, 'Alexa, show me the front door,' and I can see it on the little screen. I use it to play music a lot. The Amazon music service is great, especially as it usually shows lyrics, too. But I often also use Pandora. So I say something like 'Alexa, play alternative '80s on Pandora,' and she does! You can control volume by the buttons, or by asking Alexa to increase or decrease, or by saying something like 'Alexa, volume five.' Next, I plan to get a smart Alexa-enabled thermostat for the house. I'm a fan." —P. Heald

Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in two colors).

8. An electric toothbrush that'll leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean. It's the perfect way to start and end your day.

Amazon

Promising review: "Like many, my dentist recommended I start using an electric toothbrush. After researching many brushes, I took a chance on this highly rated one. It is amazing. Gets my teeth squeaky clean, and they stay that way all day. It is also reducing decades of beverage stains on my front teeth. It takes about 12 hours to fully charge but a charge lasts me 60 days of cleaning two times daily. Excellent product." —A. Clark

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in three colors).

9. A shimmery sequin dress so you'll steal the spotlight on New Year's Eve.

amazon.com

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 21 colors). Or, check out a long-sleeve version.

10. Fluffy bath towels to make drying off after a shower a five-star experience.

Target

Promising review: "I first went to a Target store, bought three different brands of towels and tried them all out at home. I found these Spa by Fieldcrest to be the best by far and ordered a whole set online. So far I'm completely satisfied with them. They're luxuriously soft and way more absorbent than any towel I have ever owned." —Gary

Get it from Target for $12.99 (available in 15 colors). Or, check out our picks for the best bath towels on BuzzFeed Reviews!

11. An audio-based personal training app for taking your at-home workout routine to the next level. It's a lot cheaper than hiring an actual personal trainer.

You get access to thousands of audio-guided workouts and programs lead by certified trainers. You can customize the type of workout, difficulty level, length of workout, and the background music. Read our review of Aaptiv.

Get a monthly subscription for $14.99/month (30-day free trial).

12. A motivational bottle that'll get you pumped about drinking eight glasses of water a day.

Uncommongoods

Promising review: "I have this on my desk at work, and it's been a great reminder to drink more water throughout the day. I also love the simple design and that there's no plastic." —Maggie

Get it from Uncommongoods for $19.99.

13. An Instant Pot so you can stop asking yourself, "Is this the year I finally buy the Instant Pot?" The answer is yes — treat yourself!

Amazon

This handy kitchen gadget has seven functions: rice cooker, pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, sauté, yogurt maker, and warmer. Check out our review of the Instant Pot.

Promising review: "This is quite possibly the coolest, most versatile kitchen gadget I’ve ever owned. I love it so much that I’ve purchased two more for friends and relatives. What can it do? I think the real question is 'What can’t it do?' I truly believe you could replace every cooking appliance (including your oven and stove top) and do EVERYTHING in the Instant Pot. I purchased two sizes for my own use: the three-quart (which is my almost-every-day workhorse for two person dishes) and the eight-quart (which I bring out to handle my dinner party dishes). Everything I’ve tried has been fabulous. In the realm of kitchen appliances, there is no better investment than the Instant Pot. Highly recommended!!!" —Stereoman

Get it from Amazon for $67.99+ (available in three sizes).

14. A cozy teddy coat in a gorgeous shade of dusty blue to be the cherry on top of every winter outfit.

HM

Get it from H&M for $69.99 (available in sizes XS–L). Or, check out a plus-size option!

15. Vault — a budgeting app that'll track your income and expenses and give you an estimated balance forecast for any date in the future. This is perfect for saving up for a vacation, a big purchase, or retirement because you can see your progress.

iTunes Store

Promising review: "Tried a million budget apps but they all want me to set an allotted amount for everything instead of just letting me record how much things are. This calendar interface is my favorite since we get one paycheck weekly and one bi-weekly and one payment monthly. This lets me input all that and all my reoccurring bills and gives me an idea what my balance will be every week! This is exactly the budget app I needed." —Krystald14

Get it from the iTunes Store or the Google Play Store for free (in-app purchases available).

16. An origami-style cardboard standing desk that'll literally bring your productivity to new heights.

Amazon

Promising review: "I purchased this cardboard standing desk while waiting for my back-ordered VariDesk to arrive at the office. Oh my!! The traffic at my desk to view my 'temporary' stand-up desk has been overwhelming. The design, sturdiness, and functionality have made this cardboard desk the talk of the office. Some genius design engineer had a light bulb moment. I could use this for years... if only it was height-adjustable from standing to sitting height. Priceless!" —EyeLoveGlasses

Get it from Amazon for $25 (available in three sizes).

17. A multi-surface massage ball so old muscle knots won't haunt you in the new year.

The Grommet

Promising review: "I suffer from a recurring sore spot just below my shoulder blade caused by an old muscle injury. It is impossible to reach by hand but the Wallball allows me to hit the exact spot. It hurts so good and in less than a minute releases the knot. Perfect for those hard to reach places." —Kim

Get it from The Grommet for $19.95.

18. An informative book with practical tips on how to organize and declutter your home.

Amazon

Promising review: "I love this book. It is a fast read. The author is funny, and it has lots of pictures. I read it in three days. I don't usually finish reading books either. I could have read it in one day but I have three kids and a job. I was so inspired to declutter that I started decluttering after only reading half the book at work when I got home the same evening. It's changed my life. No exaggeration. I have several books on decluttering and organizing, including Marie Kondo and Peter Walsh, and this is the best one. I feel in control. The author gives detailed advice on where to start and what kind of 'clutterbug' you are. I wanted to suggest my favorite chapter but the whole book is great advice." —lanie

Get it from Amazon for $12.82.

19. Headspace — a meditation and mindfulness app that'll help you wind down when you're feeling stressed. There are cute animations to guide you through, too.

iTunes Store

The premium version includes hundreds of guided meditations on subjects like focus, exercise, and sleep.

Promising review: "Headspace surpassed my expectations; it's easy to use, easier to navigate, and very effective in teaching the inexperienced to meditate. I especially enjoy the variety in session times, so I can pick between meditating for around 10 minutes or taking a shorter time. Also worth noting is that the app is just as helpful even if you don't purchase the extended packages; the 10 free sessions can be repeated without losing their impact. I have recommended this to friends in need of relaxation in the past and would do so again. Definitely worth the download!" —Maura Gibson

Get the basic course from the iTunes Store or the Google Play Store for free or get full access for $12.99/month.

20. A cookbook that'll encourage you to branch out into delicious new territory. And don't worry, the recipes are designed to be manageable and not overly complicated.

Amazon

Promising review: "I've been cooking from this at least twice a week. So far all the recipes have been BIG hits with the whole family. I even got sworn cauliflower-haters to admit to enjoying the roasted cauliflower with whipped goat cheese. Nobu's asparagus recipe is a real winner. As is Suzanne Goin's pork burger. None of the recipes have been difficult or too time-consuming so far." —Kijang

Get it from Amazon for $22.91.

21. Lace undies as a luxurious treat just for you. New year, new underwear!

Aerie

Get it from Aerie for $12.50 (or get 10 For $35; available in sizes XXS–XXL and six colors).

22. A subscription to Craftsy for getting access to hundreds of video tutorials on sock knitting, watercolor painting, cookie decorating, and more. Yay for new hobbies!

Craftsy

Subscriptions start at $7.99/month.

23. A chic nightgown because nothing says "I've got my life together" like presentable loungewear.

Target, Kohl's

Get the black and white one from Target for $19.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL) or the navy one from Kohl's for $18.99 (available in sizes 1X–3X and three colors).

24. A gorgeous fiddle-leaf fig plant that'll grow with you this year (and many years after).

amazon.com

Promising review: "Joanna Gaines posted a pic of one of these on her Insta... so I had to get one myself! This price was great for the size plant (and I shopped around!). Arrived well-packed and healthy with new growth at the top. Ran right out to get a pretty pot for my new plant baby. I love it!" —Fashion Queen

Get it from Amazon for $29.99.

25. A helpful book on the art of small talk so meeting and bonding with new people won't feel daunting.

Amazon

Promising review: "What a helpful book. I check the lists of opening lines before I go out socially and try one or two each time. Like magic they work. Where was this help when I needed it in years past? Well, I got it now, and it is a keeper!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $17.47.

26. A pair of faux-suede Mary Jane pumps as comfy as they are cute, which happens to be the theme of your 2019 wardrobe.

Forever 21

Get them from Forever 21 for $34.90 (available in sizes 5.5–10).

27. A self-care subscription box filled with mood-boosting goodies you'll look forward to receiving every month.

Cratejoy

Each box contains five to seven full-size products up to $85 value.

Promising review: "Out of all the boxes I ever subscribed to, this one is by far my favorite. Love the attention to self-care and taking time for yourself. Especially love mindfulness activities, such as a mood tracker from the November box. Very nicely done!" —Chloe

Get it from Cratejoy for $28.17/month.

28. A set of breathable, temperature-regulating sheets that'll keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Better sleep = a less grumpy you.

Macy's

These 300 thread-count sheets are made of 100% Hygro cotton. (This kind of cotton features yarn with a hollow core, making it more breathable and softer wash after wash. It's also moisture-wicking and can keep you cool in summer and warm in winter). Each set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and one (twin) or two pillowcases.

Get it from BuzzFeed's Goodful line, exclusively at Macy's for $75+ (available in sizes twin–California King and four colors).

29. A teeth-whitening pen so your pearly whites will shine as bright as your future.

BuzzFeed

This vegan product is formulated without parabens or phthalates. It protects tooth enamel (instead of damaging it like a lot of whitening products) and breaks up dark spots and stains. A natural mint flavor makes it extra refreshing. It's our cheap pick for the best teeth whitener on BuzzFeed Reviews!

Promising review: "Literally two uses and I can see a difference in my teeth. They look so much whiter than what I'm used to looking at! I'm a heavy coffee drinker, and I have super sensitive teeth, and this doesn't bother my teeth, gums, or mouth after using it. It tastes like the fluoride from the dentist, so you feel super clean and shiny! Highly recommend, and I will be buying this product forever!" —TiaMichelle

Get it from Tarte or Sephora for $22.

30. A wall sign to remind you to let go of the all stuff weighing you down (toxic relationships, grudges, and bad memories) and embrace a fresh start.

Francesca's

Get it from Francesca's for $10.

31. An intention bracelet for a pretty way to keep your wishes and goals with you at all times.

Uncommongoods

Simply write your wish on a tiny bit of paper (a set of just-the-right-sized sheets is included), roll it up, and tuck it into the opening. Wear it as a daily reminder to keep at it and stay focused on your goal.

Promising review: "I believe in writing down my goals. I love the idea of writing my goals and keeping them on me at all times. This bracelet comes with several little sheets to put into your bracelet, so once you achieve your goal, you can put the next one in. I love that you can wear it all day/night; a constant reminder of your goal. There is also an app you can download that reminds you for 21 days little things you can do to help keep you motivated for your goal." —Danielle

Get it from Uncommongoods for $58 (available in five stones).

32. A table lamp that'll encourage you to power through difficult assignments.

Forever 21

Get it from Forever 21 for $14.90.

33. A cross-back tank top so pretty, you'll actually feel excited about going for a run.

Free People

Promising review: "I wear this to workout as well as a night out. It's so cute and so versatile! It's good quality and a great fit! I'd like to own it in multiple colors! I'd definitely recommend this top." —akunkel1

Get it from Free People for $38 (available in sizes XS–L and six colors).

34. Plane tickets to a dream destination so you'll have a trip to look forward to even after the holidays are over.

Manop1984 / Getty Images

Check out cheap flights and hotels from Airfarewatchdog.

35. An inspirational book that might even get a die-hard pessimist to think positively for a change.

Amazon

Promising review: "I began reading Cyndie's book at 5:30 a.m. one Saturday when I could not get myself to sleep in. I have a lot of anxiety, and sometimes that leaves me unable to really relax and sleep for more than a few hours a night. I decided to dive into Cyndie's book, and by the end of the intro, I was already misty-eyed. WOW. It was like Cyndie was speaking to me, identifying exactly what I needed to hear about positive psychology and serving it up with a realness that I couldn't plug my ears to. I know I'm supposed to read this book day by day, but I am pouring through March as I pause to write this review. There are a lot of journals and giftable books out there that promote positively thinking and daily wisdom, but Cyndie's book is SO. MUCH. BETTER. Even I, an anxiety-ridden pessimist who is skeptical of most advice, have been enthralled with 'A Year of Positive Thinking' since page one." —Taylor Lee

Get it from Amazon for $16.19.

2019 is going to be your year!

NBC

Reviews here have been edited for length and/or clarity.

And here are even more amazing products to help make 2019 your best year yet!

22 Kitchen Gadgets That'll Actually Make You Want To Cook In 2019

31 Things That'll Help You Get So Much More Done In 2019

28 Things That'll Help You Get More Sleep In 2019

39 Timeless Pieces To Add To Your Wardrobe In 2019

Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides!

Allison Krausman / BuzzFeed