When you look back at the past year, how many of you made resolutions that you’ve actually achieved? And if you haven’t, do you bring them forward to the coming year? Today, we reflect on the changes that most people want in their lives (yes, we’ve talked to a few people like you!) and drop pointers on how they can be done before 2012 is even over.
Here are the top five New Year’s resolutions:
1. Spend more time with friends and family
We work so hard that we often take for granted the people who are closest to us. More than 60% of the people that we’ve talked to said that this year, they vow to show more appreciation for their loved ones by spending more time with them. And really, we know that work comes first for all you hard workers but simple things such as an hour-long coffee session, plans to meet up with friends for meals or going home for dinner can go a long way.
2. Start working out
We all already know that regular exercise, not necessarily to just lose weight, can improve your health by miles. We’re talking about reducing the risk of some cancers, increasing longevity, lowering blood pressure, so on and so forth. But if you’ve been sluggish all year, getting your workout into full gear might be tough. Start with little exercises such as walks around the neighbourhood in the morning or, if you’re too lazy to wake up early, then a stroll after dinner would improve your health tremendously in a long run. Keep healthy, look and feel better!
3. Quit smoking
Studies have proven that smoking is a worse addiction than say, drugs or alcohol. If 2012 is going to be the year that you finally stamp those cigarettes out then do it with great willpower. On average, smokers have to try a few times before they quit for good. It’s not easy but it can be done! Stay smoke-free by not buying cigarettes and tossing away all your lighters. If need be, get over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy products and quit-smoking aids from your local pharmacy. Good luck!
4. Pick up something new
We might grow old with every new year but we certainly don’t stop learning. Did you make learning something new one of your 2012’s resolutions? If you’re looking at something of a bigger scale, try a career change. But do it only if you’re confident enough and if you have a substantial amount of savings! Otherwise, do something you’ve never done before such as picking up a new language, or taking a part-time course such as singing lessons, acting classes, art and craft courses, etc.
5. Declutter and sort stuff out
It’s not always because “you woke up on the wrong side of the bed” in the mornings. Your mood could’ve been deeply affected by the clutter in your life, whether it is tangible or intangible. If you’ve previously had issues with anyone in your life, and if it’s possible, make peace with the said person. It could improve the rest of your year tremendously. If your home, room, or wardrobe is in a complete mess, start spring cleaning. Too much junk in any trunk can affect your zen.
