Turn a Resolution into Reality

Welcome to late December—a time when the holiday eating marathon is winding down, we are looking ahead to a new year, and many people are coming up with resolutions. We compiled a short list of some common new year’s resolutions and tips to help make them come true. Your specific resolution may not be on our list, but many of the tips can be applied to other situations.

1. Lose weight/exercise more/be healthier. Find 20-30 minutes to exercise. If you are just starting out, try walking at least 3 times a week. If you are already on an exercise plan, look to bump up your routine by adding a workout day or by increasing the duration. 
2. Get organized. Start with one room. If you were entertaining for the holidays, it might be a good idea to get those things organized before diving into the rest. Cleaning up what is already there is just step one, so look to find a process that will help your family stay organized going forward, such as these 5 Tips to Declutter Your Home in One Weekend. 
3. Try something new. You could take a trip or even look for volunteer opportunities in your area. Because it can push you outside your comfort zone, this resolution can be difficult for some. Keep in mind, no one said you must stick with it if you don't like it. Make a list of things that interest you, and see if a friend or family member will join you! 
4. Spend more time with family and friends. Staying in touch with friends and family who live far away often gets set aside when our lives get busy. If possible, try to set aside a day every few weeks or months to either chat on the phone or meet in person for dinner. With all the technology we have today, this resolution is easier than ever to fulfill with a little effort.

Whether your resolution is big or small, don’t be quick to give up. Be specific in what you hope to accomplish, set realistic goals, and check in on your progress. Most things are more fun with friends and family, so see if someone has a similar resolution and support each other. Have a safe and happy new year!

Sources: 

https://www.tripsavvy.com/popular-new-years-resolutions-2708154

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20452233,00.html

http://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/50-new-years-resolution-ideas-and-how-achieve-each-them.html