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Top 5 New Year's Resolutions--And How to Keep Them
The tricky thing about New Year's resolutions is that there's no guarantee that they'll ever make it off the list. Most of us have a wish list that we bring out every year on January 1 in hopes that simply reviewing the items will lead us to magically drop 10 pounds and quit smoking--after all, it's still the holidays and magic is in the air. Below are some popular resolutions and some tried and true methods for taking your resolutions from reflection to reality.
1. Spend more time with the ones you love.
It's far too easy to get caught up working long hours and tending to non-family matters, but the results can be regrettable. Instead of neglecting family time, establish a weekly "family night" to play games, watch home movies, and tell stories. Memories will be made and shared and you will have created a wonderful opportunity to get closer to the ones you love the most. Also, creating a weekly ritual will help you keep your goal on track.
2. Take a deep breath.
Anxiety runs rampant these days and the sad truth of the matter is that stress is dangerous. Aside from causing real physical symptoms, stress and anxiety can wreck havoc on your peace of mind. Start the year off right by making your mental health a priority. This may be as simple as starting a journal or practicing some deep breathing exercises or it may entail a more comprehensive approach like signing up for yoga classes or speaking with a qualified mental health professional. Keeping a log of your thoughts from day-to-day can help you understand your progress and keep you motivated.
3. Keep tabs on your money--and get out of debt.
It is ridiculously easy to spend money you don't have on things you don't need. However, the consequences can be severe; high interest rates and low minimum payments can quickly land borrowers in the land of financial regret. Make it a priority to pay off debt this year. Meet with a financial planner who can help you set realistic goals for each month of the entire year. Keep a finance calendar and update it regularly with monthly budget items and long term financial goals.
4. Improve your physical health.
We've already touched on the importance of good mental health, and good physical health is equally important. Make it a point to go see your physician for regular checkups and ask what sort of exercise regimen he or she would recommend for someone your age and weight. A qualified physician will be able to take any existing health issues into consideration when recommending an exercise plan in turn minimizing any unnecessary complications or hazards. Then follow up as needed with your physician to discuss progress and any other options available to you to maximize your health.
5. Kick your bad habit(s) for good.
Smoking, shopping, overeating, drinking--there are many vices out there and most of us have at least one. Regardless of your individual weakness, you should make it your mission to own up and clean up. There are many options available to you based on your level and type of addiction. Counseling, support groups, and even medications can all help you in your quest to kick that habit for once and for all. Make sure to include any trusted friends or family for support. They can provide comfort when needed and also help you stay committed to your goal.
About the Author Laura Watkins is a contributing business writer for Goliath. Goliath is one of the Internet's largest collections of business research, news and information. Learn more about Goliath at http://goliath.ecnext.com.
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