by Alexis Cala, PICurrent Assistant Producer
Courtesy of husin.sani
Every year many of us make New Year’s resolutions to be better parents, employees, spouses, or simply better people. But every year, many of us give up or never actually get started (I’m guilty). Well, no more excuses! Resolutions are an opportunity to accomplish forgotten goals and make the changes you want or need.
Make a resolution and keep it this year.
Whether your looking for ways to not spend so much money, get healthier, or just finally clean out the garage, you can do it!
If you’ve been making the same resolution for the last five years and you still haven’t lost any weight, it may be time to shoot for a more attainable goal. Try exercising one day more a week or eating less fatty foods. Even small goals can lead to huge changes!
If your not sure where to start, USA.gov provides great resources and helpful suggestions:
Making a New Year’s resolution is the easy part. Sticking to it can be a little more difficult. This year when you make your midnight toast and think of the changes you’d like to make, consider these tips and stick to your resolution!
- Be specific about what you want to accomplish: such as “I will put $100 in savings on the 15th of every month”
- Set realistic goals and deadlines: don’t try to lose 20 lbs in 2 weeks, give yourself enough time to avoid frustration and giving up.
- Make it a group or family project for extra motivation! Get your kids involved and teach them things like the importance of saving money early on. Help them open a savings account or start a piggy bank!
- Stay positive: try making your resolutions fun rather than an obligation.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: support groups, friends, and family can help you stay on the right track
- Keep it up every day: routines can make it easier to stick to your resolution.
Gretchen at the Huffington Post offers this piece of advice:
Instead of starting your new exercise routine by training for the marathon, aim for a 20-minute walk each day. Instead of cleaning out the attic, tackle one bureau drawer. If you break your resolution today, try again tomorrow.”
Remember, keep it simple and realistic. Have fun with your resolution and look forward to change in 2009.
Don’t forget to help your kids set goals too! The American Academy of Pediatrics offers some great resolutions for kids!
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