By Taryn Jerez
It’s that time a year when the world is abuzz with a newfound positivity and self confidence in themselves. You know what I’m talking about! It’s that “new year, new me” mantra on the lips of every other person you speak with. And why not? At the end of the day, a New Year’s Resolution is just a goal dressed up with a little champagne and confetti! Every year we have this amazing opportunity to reflect on our lives and discover which area we want to improve upon.
Challenge yourself to choose a resolution this year that reflects the area of your life you feel would have the biggest reward once accomplished. Would you feel less stressed if you did this one thing differently? Would life be more enjoyable once you mastered this? Invest in yourself and embrace the blank canvas that is 2018!
Here are a few ideas to get you started!
- Create a Self-Care Routine
Putting yourself first is not an easy task. Whether it’s a pedicure at the spa, a cup of coffee without the kids, or even just going for a morning walk – make time for you. Brainstorm what makes you feel cared for and relaxed and take time to make that a priority each month.
- Practice Better Time Management
Could your evenings use a little less TV time? Could you fit in a quick workout or phone call to your mom during your lunch breaks? Make it your mission to utilize the time you have better, so you can enjoy your down time more and feel on top of things.
- Find Ways to Move More
Signing up for a marathon may be a little drastic, but simple actions like parking farther away at the store, taking the stairs, or going for walks with your family can make a difference. Sign up for a new class at the gym to get moving and meet new friends. Help reduce stress and even keep your blood pressure down just by adding a little more movement to each day!
- Pick Up a New Hobby
If you’re used to playing it safe, consider tapping into your adventurous side and take a horseback riding class or a rock climbing lesson. Looking to learn a new skill? Try quilting or woodworking. Check out local resources like Sawtooth School for Visual Art in Winston-Salem and find a class or workshop on something new.
- Spend Less and Save More
Run your money, don’t let it run you. Deciding to start a budget and create goals for spending and saving will be something you’d have wished you started sooner. You can find free online resources for debt management, building a savings, and creating a weekly budget.
- Be More Organized
Getting organized can impact every part of your life. Improving order in your surroundings by decluttering, sorting and labeling can make life at home more hassle-free. Organizing your schedule and tasks by using a planner or family calendar and creating to-do lists can be a game changer!
- Spend More Time in Nature
In the words of many a grandmother, “A little fresh air does the body good.” Our world is filled with technology and so much time spent indoors, that being outside more is a great goal. Eat dinner in the backyard, plan date nights at the park or include some nature trails and hiking on this year’s vacation.
- Start a Side Business
Take your hobby or craft to the next level and start the small business you’ve been thinking about. Take advantage of the Forsyth Tech Small Business Center to learn more about being an entrepreneur and the steps needed to take you to the next level.
- Practice Meditation
Improve both your mental health and physical wellness. Adding just 10 minutes of meditation a day can improve focus, productivity, anxiety and even help you sleep better. Ease into the practice and start your morning off with some time to reflect, or at the end of the day by quieting down some of the craziness.
- Make More Time for Your Favorite Things
In the hustle and bustle of life, make it a goal to carve out time for things that make you smile and remind you of all you have to be grateful for. Prioritize the things that matter most this year.
