Today is the last day of 2013, and the concept of New Year's Resolutions is all over TV, radio, magazines, newspapers, etc. If you are planning to make a resolution or two, in order to maximize your chances of actually keeping them:
1. Make sure your resolutions are realistic and specific. For example, instead of "get more exercise," which is somewhat vague, you might resolve to "walk at least three times a week."
2. Write down your resolutions. Studies show we are more likely to carry through with things we write down.
3. Share your resolutions with someone who will help keep you accountable.
If you want to make some positive changes for 2014 but don't know what your resolutions actually are, here are some ideas...
For Dog Lovers
Resolve to...
1. attend a canine CPR/First Aid Class sometime before the end of 2014
2. take your dog for regular walks. Twice a day for at least 30 minutes each time is a good rule of thumb for an average, healthy adult dog. For more ideas, click here.
3. make your own wholesome treats at home. Ingredients could include pumpkin, green beans, broccoli stems, blueberries, chicken broth, beef broth, plain yogurt, etc. Be sure to check with your vet regarding what foods are safe to feed to your dog(s) before concocting your own treats.
4. take your dog on weekly adventures. Think dog parks, nature walks, Petco/Petsmart, etc.
5. go Cruelty-Free
6. enroll in a training class sometime before the end of 2014. Even if you and your dog have already completed a basic obedience class, consider enrolling in a Canine Good Citizen course, an agility class, etc. There are some pretty insane dog sports out there now--chances are, you will be able to find something you and your dog will love.
For Weight Loss
Resolve to...
1. eat more fiber and less fat. Think fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Try simple substitutions, such as eating whole grain, baked crackers instead of chips; vegetables and hummus instead of chips and dip; or frozen yogurt instead of ice cream.
2. take at least 10,000 steps a day. The average American takes only 5,000 steps a day, but the recommendation for minimum steps a day is double that number.
3. aim for at least 30 minutes of activity per day
4. eat less added sugars. Sugars that naturally occur in certain foods, such as fruit, are fine, but try to limit your intake of added sugar.
5. watch less TV, or 'actively' watch by doing crunches/lunges/squats during commercial breaks; walking up and down the steps between shows; and getting up to change the channel or adjust the volume, as opposed to using the remote.
6. to participate in at least one organized fitness activity during 2014, such as group exercise classes or a 5k run/walk.
For Giving Back
Resolve to...
1. pick one (or more) charity that represents a cause important to you and make a monthly donation
2. volunteer at least once before the end of 2014. Local animal shelters and YMCAs are always in need of volunteers.
3. smile at people in the grocery store, at the mall, at the bank--wherever you go.
For Friends and Family
Resolve to...
1. call at least one long-distance friend or family member every month. Even if you just leave a voice mail, someone will know you thought of him or her.
2. tell your family members you love them every time you see them
3. write and send Christmas letters. For ideas, click here.
For Spirituality
Resolve to...
1. acknowledge your blessings. Sometimes, it seems easier to focus on the negatives or on what we think we lack, but you are likely to find that life is actually easier and more enjoyable if instead you focus on what you do have.
2. feel grateful. When you wake up in the morning, before you even get out of bed, try to list at least three good things about the dawning day. When you go to bed at night, try to list at least three good things that happened during the day.
3. go to church.
I am sure I could sit here all day and night thinking of more ways for you to make yourself an even better you, but I think you get the idea. You might be asking yourself what my own resolutions are, now that I've told you all the things you need to change. ;-) Well, I do have one resolution, and though it goes against my advice of being specific, I do not think it contrary to my advice of being realistic. My resolution for 2014 is simply to be more thoughtful--to think a little less often of me, and a little more often of everyone else, and to act on this.
Happy New Year, may all your resolutions come true!
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