A New Years Resolution

It's that time of year again: New Years. The Christmas festivities are over, parties are winding down and you have to to determine your New Years Resolution. Or do you?

New Years Resolutions are simply promises or vows people make to themselves, or perhaps their family, to do something or to not do something. Some of the most popular resolutions include to stop smoking, lose weight or save money. All of which are great things to do, however, up and deciding to do it one day is most likely not going to pan out for you. These resolutions are life-changing decisions.

The decision to stop smoking is a huge one. It takes time, commitment, self control and support. Same goes for weight loss and saving money. So why jump in and set yourself up for failure? Instead of making a resolution to completely stop smoking or lose X amount of weight, make a resolution to begin a healthier lifestyle by cutting back on cigarettes or the amount of calories consumed in a day.

Try to cut down a cigarette a day until you think you can go all the way. You can also seek professional help to stop smoking. It's going to take time, but it is possible.

If you want/need to lose weight, DO NOT go on some fad/crash diet and expect to keep the results. Instead, don't go back for seconds, drink water with your meal and eat a big salad (not with 1/2 a gallon of dressing on it) before your meal. You'll be surprised at how satisfied you feel. Second, go for a walk, take the stairs or park farther away. I know this all stuff you've heard before, but it honestly does help. Any kind of increase in activity is going to be good for you! Pounds aren't going to melt off in two days like they do in those ridiculous commercials, but the results you achieve will be in a healthy manner and you are more likely to keep the weight off.

If saving money is what you want to do, try this: Make a goal to eat at home 3-4 nights a week or make that morning cup of coffee instead of purchasing it. You'd be surprised how quickly the money will add up. Try other things, too like packing your lunch 2-3 times a week and tossing all of your pocket change in a jar at the end of the day. You don't have to be setting aside huge chunks of your paycheck each and every month to save a sizable sum of money come year end. Making a few, small changes will go a long way in helping put up some money for the future or emergencies.

Setting attainable goals will keep you motivated and more likely to stick with what you're trying to do. How many times have you gone into the New Year all gung-ho about your resolutions only to find yourself with a cigarette in one hand and a second piece of cake in the other by January 4th? I know that I, myself, have found myself slipping just days into the New Year. Nothing like feeling like a failure to make you reach for another bonbon or smoke, huh? It's a vicious circle that can be broken if you feel like you're making progress! So, this year, don't lie to yourself. Set attainable goals and take it one step at a time. You can do it and when you do, you're going to feel fantastic about yourself and in the end, that's what matters.