Somehow the very word resolution stirs up anxiety and stress in my mind. If I don’t accomplish my resolutions for the new year am I a loser or am I lazy? What if I only accomplish part of the list? I used to make resolutions when the calendar rolled around, and would usually work on them for a couple of months and then they’d fizzle out. I’d get busy with other things or else gradually I’d just forget about them. Then I’d feel bad because they fell by the wayside. The thing is anytime that we make a positive change it’s a good thing because we are changing course for a better direction. As we not only accomplish goals, but also attempt new goals, we evolve in a good way, even if the goal is only met partially or for a while because any success drives us on and improvements are made. Our mindset is a positive one.
I’ve come up with a list of some things we’ll just call good ideas, instead of resolutions, that might spur us on in 2020 to make some changes and also that are doable and not overwhelming.
- Instead of saying you’re going to lose 25 pounds, why not just start with 5 lbs. or even just cut back on sugar, red meat or soft drinks. These goals are doable and will help you feel better and have more energy. Who knows- these small changes might be a catalyst to more improvements.
- Watch less television. It can definitely become a habit to relax after dinner, or even during while watching TV. That is fine, but why not read a book once in a while or write a letter, or go for a walk. These choices can be relaxing as well and help you accomplish something at the same time.
- Tell a loved one that you love and appreciate them. Everyone likes to hear that they make a difference and that they are loved. As the days roll into weeks and months, a busy life can get out of control and it can be easy to take it for granted that they just know it.
- Take that college class that you’ve wanted to for years. I recently took a college class that didn’t have any credits, and was just for 6 weeks, but I enjoyed it very much and I met some very nice people as well. It got me out of my comfort zone and jumpstarted my brain.
- Every day or just once a week if that is more realistic, write down 5 blessing that you are aware of in your life. Pick different ones every time. Gratitude makes us focus on positive things in our life and that our life isn’t so bad after all.
This week’s article is short and sweet, but it is written with the intent that instead of feeling overwhelmed by a new year, you can feel excited and hopeful. You are awesome and have made it this far in life. Instead of thinking what you haven’t finished or started, think about what you have accomplished along with the challenges in life. Every day is a fresh start and you’ve got this!
Let me know what one of your goals is for 2020 or suggestions that you might have for doable goals 😊
Over 55 and loving it...mostly 