2008 Resolutions

There's something magical about starting a new year. It's like a clean slate, a fresh beginning, a second chance. The last year is only a memory, the good, the bad, and everything in between is all just in the past. A year that is empty and waiting for you to make memories and have sucess. It's a time to start new and make a mark in this world. Any problems you encountered in the previous year are pushed aside and you have high hopes for a better year. We are optimistic and excited to welcome in the new year.

We commit ourselves to certain goals we hope to achieve in the coming year. Things like spending more time with family, losing weight, quit smoking, learning something new, saving money, ect. All of which are achievable with a little effort and commitment. Sadly very few people will actually make their resolutions a habit or lifestyle.
Research shows that 25% of people will abandon their resolutions after the first week. Three months later over half have given up all together. Fewer than 10% of Resolution Makers will achieve them.

How can we beat the odds?

Most goals require lifestyle changes and overcoming bad habits to create new ones. We have to realize that it will be tough, we can't just wake up January 1st and expect everything to be a walk in the park.

Steps to achieve your goals:

1. Write them down. It gives you a higher chance of success if you write your goal and how you plan on reaching it, step-by-step, your "game plan". Be specific. If you want to save money for example distinguish between your needs (shelter, food, clothing, and transportation) and wants (things that enhance our lives, movies, excess clothing, video games, purses, shoes, jewelry etc). Having them on paper reminds you what you want to do and keeps them on your mind.

2. Commit. It takes it from a "good idea" to something you pour your heart and soul into. Something you strive for and desire.

3. Accountability. Get someone to ask you how it's going. When you know someone is watching you you're more likely to follow through


I have two goals this year.

1. Eat healthier, feel healthier, be healthier.
Game Plan:
-Eat a healthy Breakfast
-Eat less frozen meals (those are packed with salt and preservatives)
-To mentally feel healthy do things I enjoy such as scrapbooking, reading, writing, etc
-Pull myself off the couch and go for a walk even if it's only to go around the block for some fresh air.
-Get my allergy tests (Then I can avoid unhealthy situations)

2. Go on a trip.
Game Plan:
-save money (figure out my "wants" and "needs")
-renew my passport


Two attainable goals that I will strive towards! (Hopefully for longer than one week!)