Tuesday, January 1, 2008

Happy New Year!



It's hard to believe that we have entered a new year! Where did 2007 go? Each year continues to go faster. With each new year comes hope, motivation and expectations of a brighter, happier and healthier year. It is common for many people to make new year's resolutions but usually by March the motivation has worn off and old habits set back in. It doesn't have to be this way, though!

For a little something different on here I thought I would post the top 10 new year's resolutions people make from an article on About.com:

Spend more time with family and friends. A poll showed that over 50% of Americans yearly vow to spend more time with family and friends and to appreciate them more.

Fitness changes. A common resolution most people make is to exercise more, eat less and to eat healthier.

Lose weight. Probably the most popular resolution of all. Over 65% of Americans are considered overweight, so no wonder why this is the most popular!

Quit smoking. This is a very smart resolution and a healthy one if you are able to kick the smoking habit! There are many resources available to help people quit and your lungs and heart will thank you! Your family will also thank you for no longer smelling like an ashtray.

Enjoy life more. How easy that is to say, but not as easy to do! Americans are so stressed out, it isn't any wonder heart attacks and heart disease are on the rise. Find a hobby you enjoy to de-stress, take on less responsibility at work and enjoy your family more when you come home.

Quit drinking. For the social drinker, this may be an easy resolution to keep. For someone who has a drinking problem, they need further support and help from local groups, such as AA. There are still too many drunk drivers on the road killing innocent people.

Get out of debt. If you are spending more than you are making, or if your credit cards are maxed out, then you definitely need this resolution! Learn how to budget your money and always ask yourself before spending if the item is a "need" or a "want". It you don't need it, don't buy it.

Learn something new. This is something I do. I like to learn and try new things so each year I attempt something I have never done before. It doesn't have to be anything big but it can be fulfilling to accomplish it!

Volunteer. There are many organizations, charities and hospitals who are always looking for volunteers. Volunteer a few hours a week to make a difference in someones life.

Improve organizational skills. My husband needs to make this a resolution! I can't stand walking downstairs into "his" room - it is a disaster area but I'm not allowed to touch it! I love to organize and if your house or a room is out of control, break the task down into small sections. Trying to tackle the whole room or house at once can be overwhelming and you will end up not accomplishing anything. Make a list for each room and follow the list, checking off each task as it is completed.

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