You may reach for the same tired resolutions every time the calendar flips to January. Lose weight. Save money. Clean out the spare room before the clutter unionizes. Yet there's more to living well than fewer pounds, more dollar signs, and less mess. There's also setting positive habits and finding new ways to enjoy every day!
Try on some creative New Year's resolutions this year. As you do, remember that personal progress takes time and sometimes walks a twisty path. Continue moving forward, and you'll find you've kept your promises to yourself this year!
Beyond Resolutions: Tips for Creating Positive Habits and Finding Joy in Daily Life
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Resolve to move more.
You don't have to run a marathon, but a daily walk would be great. Find beautiful parks or trails near your home and take a daily stroll. Challenge yourself to walk an additional block every week. The idea is to add movement to every day. If you miss a day, forget it and start again the day after. You're still sticking to your goal to exercise a little more than you did last year! -
Make time to talk to the people you love most.
It's so easy to fall out of touch with the people we love. Whether it's your dad or a friend whom you never seem to connect with, set aside moments to pick up the phone and have a chat. -
Choose to volunteer.
Lots of opportunities for good work are waiting for you to seize them. Walk shelter dogs, work at a soup kitchen, or tutor kids who need a helping hand. You'll not only improve the lives of others, but you'll also add a newfound purpose to your own. -
Improve your skills, not your appearance.
Your physical health is important, but so is your self-esteem. It's easy to focus on your looks for the new year and forget that you have passions and dreams to chase. Instead of promising yourself to diet, resolve to take a language class or pick up that hobby you've wanted to try. -
Set a reading goal.
While some people are avid readers, others might not remember the last book they finished. This year, set a resolution to read a certain number of books per year. You can read one every month or one every three months - whatever amount is realistic and enjoyable for you while getting you back to the bookshelves. -
Take a day trip to a new place.
Plan to explore a nearby place that you've never bothered to walk around. Check out museums, thrift stores, and other interesting sights. You don't have to break your budget to feel like you've had a travel adventure! -
Try a new recipe weekly or monthly.
Culinary adventures count as adding creativity to your life! Explore the bounty of healthy recipes available on the internet or the options provided on the Actlive Life Facebook page and give them a taste! You'll not only find new favorites, but you'll contribute to your health and hopefully have fun too. -
Get back in touch with your dreams - and find the way to achieve them.
Now is the perfect time to check back in with everything you dreamed of doing with your life. You might have wanted to be a famous singer or itched to write the next great American novel. Why not use this year to start fulfilling those old desires? Take singing lessons. Join a creative writing group. Take concrete steps toward making those dreams come true!
The New Year Belongs to You
A new year should breathe new life into everyone who wants to better themselves. It doesn't matter if you're 15 or 50 - it's never too late to make the changes you've always wanted. Set creative resolutions and start your journey toward a new you!
Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. Consult with your healthcare professional to design an appropriate exercise routine. If you experience any pain or difficulty with these exercises, stop and consult your healthcare provider.