If you are anything like me, or millions of other Americans out there, chances are that at the beginning of every new year you make yourself a promise. Or maybe even promises. Do you keep them? Probably not…most of us don’t. These resolutions are always made with the best intentions, but somehow we find a way to back out of actually accomplishing them!
But there are some New Year’s resolutions out there that you can actually make, and keep doing. Whether it’s exercising more or spending more time with the family, there’s a way to make sure that you can accomplish your goal. And that’s just the thing – you have to look at it as a goal and have an action plan in place to help you succeed. Baby steps are the way to go here!
Here are some doable resolutions for you to think about…
Change Your Attitude Before You Change Your Habits
Don’t see the changes you want to make as an all-or-nothing type decision. I’ve decided to lose the extra baby weight I’m still carrying around, and I’ve always said “I have to lose 15 lbs.” This year though, I’m telling myself that I’m going to get healthy and make positive changes in what I’m eating. The “d” word (diet) isn’t even passing my lips. If I eat something I shouldn’t, I’m going to start over again instead of using that as an excuse to fall off the d-word wagon. By making small, positive decisions, you give yourself permission to make mistakes, own up to them, and then self-correct.
Exercise
I know, I know…this is on everybody’s resolution list. But I’m not talking about a full-blown workout regimen, buying a membership to the gym, and running a marathon. Baby steps, remember? Integrate activity into your day. If you live close enough to walk to the kids’ school to pick them up, walk instead of drive. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Run around with the kids at the park…you can do it!
Skip Fast Food
Easier said then done, right? It’s so convenient (and cheap!) to drive thru your favorite fast food restaurant, and the kids love it. But why not go home and make burgers and baked fries? Prepare your own food using fresh ingredients – you’ll know exactly what you’re putting into your body and the kids will like putting whatever they want on their burger. By doing this, you will not only save calories because you’ll make smarter choices, you’ll also save money and you will become healthier, too.
Get Rid of The Clutter
Not just the clutter in your house, that can suck the energy right out of you, but also the clutter in your head. With smart phones, tablets, computers, and every other gadget you can think of, we are all “connected” all of the time. It can become addicting, and even stressful. Make a promise to yourself to turn off the electronics after a certain hour in the evening or during the day when you are with the kids, quit checking emails and text messages!
Less connecting means less stress, and more enjoyment for you!
What resolutions have you made and kept?
Photo Source: mt23
