The resolution solution
Many of us draw up and commit to a set of resolutions as a new year dawns, but, as time passes, we often find them hard to stick to.
Written by Shaazia Ebrahim
The start of a new year is a good time to get introspective and consider forming habits to better yourself and your lifestyle. Setting realistic goals that will eventually become habits can be tough though, which is why we’ve got some pointers for you to consider as you ponder the life you want to lead in 2023.
Get fit (but don’t die trying)
Forget gains, rather find an exercise, sport or activity that you enjoy so that it is easier to commit to. There are so many options beyond a gym membership. Think: boxing, swimming, and running. How about joining a hiking or tennis club?
There are also many exercise apps and a wide variety of YouTube videos that make exercising in your own home a breeze. Start with small goals – like walking 5000 steps a day for a month – and increase these objectives gradually as you achieve your target.
Keep it in the family
Make time for the people closest to you this year. Whether it’s scheduling a weekly phone call with your brother who lives overseas or planning some quality family time together at least once a month, put in the effort to stay in touch… Tell your family about your desires so that you stay accountable – and so that they do too.
Make time for love
Meeting new people can be daunting but there’s an app for everything these days. Put yourself out there and start swiping. If digital vibes are not quite your thing, get out and meet people – join clubs for your hobbies so you can socialise with like-minded souls, ask your friends to set you up, or host a ‘singles’ braai at your place.
If you’re already partnered up, schedule time with your significant other to talk about how you both feel about your relationship and what you both want out of it in the year ahead – be open and honest and truly listen to each other.
Make sure that you have date nights often – these need not be expensive dinners out each time, it’s more about making a concerted effort to spend time together, whether it’s going for a beach walk and watching the sunset or enjoying a picnic in the park. Setting realistic relationship goals helps to manage everyone’s expectations.
Work it
What would you like to achieve at work this year and how are you going to get there?
Whether it’s a raise, a promotion, or a department transfer that you’re after, set up time with your manager or boss to discuss your career goals.
Ask them what you can do in the short- and long-term to set yourself on the path to realising your dream. Schedule bi-monthly or quarterly check-ins with them to keep yourself on track and motivated.
Be money wise
We all want to earn more or save more (or both) right? Make responsible money decisions this year that ‘future you’ will thank you for. The general rule is that 20% of your income should go towards savings, which can be easily achievable or near impossible depending on your circumstances.
Try to be realistic about how much money you can save though, otherwise you’ll just be disappointed. If you aren’t able to put away 20% of your income, rather make some budget changes that will allow you to save.
Tiny changes can have a big impact, so start small and practical. Commit to your resolutions, but don’t be too hard on yourself – life changes and so can you.
Take each day as it comes, put one foot ahead of the other and keep working towards a better version of you.
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