New Year's Resolutions You Can Actually Keep

The new year is a time to reflect on what you want to accomplish in the upcoming days. It is a time for bright beginnings, hope and usually some special projects. Many people select this time of year to set new year's resolutions, but they often “shoot for the stars" when making these resolutions. So in the end, most of these promises that you make to yourself are broken within a few short months of being made.

The solution is a simple one--make resolutions that are realistically achieved.  Instead of making promises you can't keep, set goals and resolutions that are within your reach.  Here are a few New Year’s resolutions that are very easy to keep and much healthier for your physical and emotional well-being.

Be Nice

Decide to be nicer to people! Being nice will make others react differently to you. It will lift your spirits and help others feel more self-confident.  A nice, friendly person is a joy to be around, and this is a resolution that most of us can keep. It doesn't require money, effort or much of anything except a special compliment or greeting now and then.  Start small by saying "hello" and "goodbye" to everyone you come across.  Consider what you say before you say it -- stay away from insults and gossip.  And lend a helping hand to someone whenever every possible.

Sleep

Try to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep at night.  Of course this may require some effort, but you will soon feel healthier, rested and even younger!  Try to finish daily tasks early in the day so you can get to bed at a decent hour.  Your mind will feel rejuvenated and your health will reflect you getting the added sleep.

Moderation

Moderation is key to having a healthier lifestyle – whether its food, alcohol, smoking, or “risky” activities (skydiving anyone?).  Don't try to make a big resolution of losing 100 pounds.  Instead opt to quit drinking sodas, stop eating junk food or decide to eat less of your favorite, unhealthy foods.  This is a very easy resolution to keep and much more realistic.  Allow yourself to have everything you enjoy . . . but only in moderation.  It's highly unlikely that you will quit something "cold turkey." But deciding to indulge moderately is a highly achievable goal.

Exercise

Almost everyone makes a resolution to get more exercise, but almost everyone hates exercise just as much--especially when participating in routines that are not enjoyable.  If you choose a sport or exercise that you like instead, then you're more likely to keep at it.  If you really want to start an exercise program and want to lose a little weight, then try yoga, swimming, Tai-chi or any other exercise that may seem like fun, but is less intense (or intimidating) than others.

Floss

Set a really healthy resolution by deciding to floss regularly.  This is certainly a goal almost anyone can complete.  It may not be an easy resolution to keep all the time, but you can improve at it. Remember, it only takes 21 days to create a habit.  So, decide to take a few extra minutes every morning flossing before you brush your teeth. Believe me, your dentist will thank you!
 
Meditate

They say that stress is the number one cause of all illness.  If you take a few minutes to meditate or sit quietly with your eyes closed, thinking about nothing at all, you can rejuvenate your mind and body.  This will give you more energy and ability to complete your daily activities. Besides it can be a really fun and restful activity. Try it sometime during the mid-morning or afternoon hours. When you finish, you will feel like you just woke up from a wonderful nap.

All of the above resolutions are not over-reaching goals, but are instead simple resolutions that almost anyone can achieve . . . no matter how busy or active their lifestyle is.