Do New Year’s resolutions work for you?
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I’ve never made New Year’s resolutions. It’s not that I think I’m perfect—far from it. But self-discipline has never been one of my stronger traits, so making resolutions seems like a guarantee of frustration and failure later in the year. And, really, who makes resolutions anyway? Aren’t they just a marketing ploy by fitness and weight-loss centers?
As it turns out, a lot of people in the Answers community make resolutions this time of year. One of the most common questions appearing now is “What is your New Year’s resolution?” Either people are looking for an idea, or they hope that by sharing their own they stand a better chance of sticking to it.
The most popular resolutions have to do with living a healthier lifestyle. Losing weight, exercising more, eating better, joining a gym, and quitting smoking are at the top of most lists. Financial commitments are also common. Answers users want to spend less, save more, get out of debt, and start investing for the future. Others are thinking about giving back to their communities through charity and volunteer work. Finally, a lot of people on Answers are focusing on their own emotional well-being. They want to reduce stress, enjoy life more, and be happier.
These all sound like worthy goals, but I wonder how many people remain faithful to their resolutions. After all, there seem to be as many questions in Answers about breaking resolutions as making them. No wonder so many people ask for advice about how to stick it out.
For those of you who, like me, are still skeptical about this whole New Year’s resolution thing, I’d like to point out the other opportunities to make positive changes in your life. Your birthday, the first day of school, or any other special day can be an occasion for new beginnings. And if you need help sticking to your goals, a number of web sites (my favorite is 43 Things) can keep you motivated and connected with like-minded people.
What advice do you have for sticking to New Year’s resolutions?
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[...] people want to know about them. Last month the Answers community was buzzing with questions about New Year’s resolutions. Now Chinese New Year is getting all the [...]
Just don’t make them! You’re doomed to failure from the onset. Statistics sure aren’tr in your favour!
I have never really done a serious resolution either but being in the fitness business, I see a lot of people who do make them. And that is ok, e=xcept for the fact that we should really be free to make resolutions at any time during the year. I do see how Jan 1 can feel like a clean slate, but why put off until tomorrow what we can do today?