New Year’s resolutions are a tradition; unfortunately, they often go the way of broken Christmas toys that are discarded soon after the holiday season is over. We may be well-intentioned, but as the New Year grows older, our good intentions fade.
What are the most common New Year’s resolutions to improve health?
5. Change Jobs- If you have spent the last year unhappy in your current job, this common resolution may top your list. Being unhappy in the workplace can lead to stress, depression, and a host of unhealthy coping behaviours. If getting a new job is on your list, make a to-do list of strategies to help you meet this goal in the coming year. For example, dust off your resume, make a list of your accomplishments, or seek professional help in securing a new position.
4. Spend More Time with Family and Friends- This is another “golden oldie”. When our lives become busy and stressful, our friends and family are often the unhappy victims. Resolve to make time for the people who love you and make you feel special and happy. This will rub off on other areas of your life.
3. Exercise More- Has the treadmill you got for Christmas last year become a convenient place to hang your clothes? It’s time to dust off your exercise equipment and reap the benefits of regular exercise. Walk (or run) to your nearest gym and get that membership you’ve been threatening to get for the past year. Enlist a friend, someone with like-minded aspirations and develop a plan together to get fit in 2009!
2. Quit Smoking- This particular monkey is still clinging to many people’s backs. It is never too late to quit. If you have tried and failed to quit, don’t beat yourself up. It takes most smokers many attempts before success is achieved. Talk to your doctor about the many smoking cessation products available to help you quit. Resolve to become a non-smoker this year, and plan for a holiday next year with the money you will save from not smoking.
1. Lose Weight- This resolution tops a lot of people’s lists after the New Year, especially after a month of Christmas indulgence. It may be that you simply want to start eating healthier. Whatever your goal, make a plan to help you meet your goal, and be sure that you set realistic goals. Setting unrealistic goals is a big reason that people become discouraged and give up on this particular resolution. HINT: Combining # 1 and # 3 may help!
Good luck, and remember, if you fall off the New Year’s Resolution horse, dust yourself off and get back on!
Related Links:
Video: Exercise in no time from illumistream
Popular New Year's Resolutions from USA.gov
Tips for Keeping 10 Common Health-Related New Year's Resolutions from Market Watch
