Real Solution Resolutions

A few days past last year's new year, I wrote a blog about setting resolutions. The post was primarily regarding the word itself - "resolution" - and how the hype behind setting new year's resolutions is essentially setting us up for resolution-achieving failure. This year, I've been considering the topic in a different light. I do think the external pressure surrounding resolutions is encouraging for considering how we would like to positively alter our lifestyles in the new year, but it can be anxiety-causing, too. I want resolution-setting to be more than just a list of dream solutions... rather, setting resolutions should be a more serious attempt at organizing real solutions!

What I'm trying for myself (and suggesting for those who ask) is to make a resolution list of a few smaller items, rather than one or two overarching goals. That one biggie resolution (i.e., Go on a Diet/Start Exercising) will feel impossible to tackle because when is it ever "completed" and ready to check off the to-do list? Smaller items that are clear to be seen as "started/in progress/finished" are easier to digest (pardon the pun) and, therefore, easier to achieve. Try swapping out the "Go on a Diet" resolution for ones like: brown-bag lunch instead of takeout, carrots and balsamic instead of chips and guac, lettuce wraps instead of lo mein. Switch the "Start Exercising" to call the studio and schedule an introductory session.

Small decisions are real life actions to solve bigger issues that can add up to great results. Before you turn around, you will have transformed your lifestyle, which, in turn, will have helped you achieve that "biggie" resolution.