The start of a new year is a great time to reflect on the past 12 months and consider what went well and what you’d do differently. More often than not, you’re able to think of a few things you’d like to accomplish in the year ahead. We’re with you on that. But, it can be pretty challenging to hold to those resolutions. (Studies show 80% don’t make it past the first week of February.)
What do you say we change that number this year and commit to bringing our New Year’s Resolutions to life? Here are some of the most popular things people want to focus on for 2018. Let’s do this.
Health & Wellness
This one tops the list each year, and it’s easy to see why. After indulging on seasonal treats, grandma’s home cooking and one too many holiday parties, it makes sense that people would start thinking about a healthier lifestyle come January 1.
It can be tough to stick with this one, though, so experts suggest finding a partner or friend to hold you accountable. By teaming up with someone else, you’re more likely to continue on the path to health and wellness. Need some extra motivation? Talk to one of our community wellness managers for tips and suggestions.
Learn Something New
Ever wanted to play the piano? Learn a different language? Master the art of cooking? We’ve all been there, and we’ve all found reasons not to do the things we’ve be wanting to do. Life is busy and other things get in the way - it happens to the best of us. But this year, let’s really do it.
Find a local piano instructor to help you get started. Buy Rosetta Stone and teach yourself French. Sign up for some cooking classes. There is so much out there to learn and do, and you have plenty of time to dedicate yourself to whichever you choose. You simply have to choose what you want to do and get out there and do it. We guarantee you’ll be happy with the end result.
Disconnect to Connect
Are you reading this on your cell phone right now? If we had to bet, we’d guess the answer is yes. In 2017, the average person spent approximately 4-5 hours on their mobile device. That’s roughly one-third of your total waking hours. Sounds like a lot, right? We agree, but let’s face it. Our phones play a vital role in our lives and getting rid of them isn’t very realistic.
Instead, consider unplugging more frequently. When you’re visiting family or friends, stash your phone in another room and make the most of that quality time together. Rather than calling a friend to chat, think about meeting them in person. Face-to-face interactions are more necessary than ever and truly help fuel your body and spirit. That connectivity will bring more energy to your day and leave you feeling content and refreshed. That’s a resolution we can keep.
Travel to New Places
These winter months bring a lot of snow and frigid temperatures, so can you blame us for dreaming of sandy beaches and tropical weather? (We’re looking at you, Hawaii.) Whether you hop an international flight or pile in the car for a road trip, travel is good for the soul. Not only are you able to visit new places, but you’re poised to learn more about yourself and the world we live in, too.
Combine this resolution with the previous one and you have everything you need for a memory-making adventure. If you choose the islands, save us a beach chair. We’re always looking for some more Vitamin D.
Reduce Stress
It’s starting to seem like all of these resolutions tie together somehow. Want to know how to reduce stress? Focus on your health and wellness, spend more time with friends and family, learn something you’ve always wanted to learn, and take a vacation. There! We solved it.
It’s not always so simple, though. The holidays can be overwhelming and work and family obligations can add to your stress. Sometimes, it seems like the only skill we can master is worrying about every detail of our lives. Will we have time for the gym today? When was the last time we called our friend? Should we really eat that second bagel? It’s enough to drive anyone crazy. The first step towards stress relief is recognizing that you feel it. Look for ways to streamline your day and make things easier on yourself. Think about what brings you happiness and set some time aside to do it, whatever “it” is. When all else fails, just remember - a positive attitude can go a long way.
There you have it. Four of the most popular resolutions for 2018. Which are you taking on this year? We would love to hear from you. Share your successes with Lifestyle Manager, Lori Evans by email lori.evans@fsresidential.com .