It’s a time to reflect on the changes we want (or need) to make in our lives, and resolve to follow through on those changes. A few of the popular New Year’s resolutions in the U. S. are as follows:
· LOSE WEIGHT
· QUIT SMOKING
· REDUCE STRESS
· TAKE A TRIP
· VOLUNTEER TO HELP OTHERS
· GET OUT OF DEBT
· SAVE MONEY
· GET FIT
· EAT RIGHT
Recent research shows that while 52% of participants in a resolution study were confident of success with their goals, only 12% actually achieved those goals. Men achieved their goals 22% more often when they engaged in goal setting, a system where small measurable goals are used (lose a pound a week, instead of saying “lose weight”), while women succeeded 10% more when they made their goals public and got support from their friends or family.
Linda and I were on vacation in the summer of 2007. We were enjoying a sedentary life style, and we talked about our health and ways that we needed to improve. We made an agreement with each other to begin to exercise and to improve our eating habits. The important thing here is that we agreed with each other (or made covenant) what we “resolved” to do. Now, I have to admit that Linda has been more successful in her efforts than I have, but we still encourage each other and this has been a very positive effort for both of us, and we didn’t wait until New Year’s Eve.
I challenge you to think about setting some goals (changes) in your life! Talk to someone about what you would like to change (improve) in your life and be accountable to them for those changes. You will be glad you did!!
Joe Hardwick
Jfhardwick@aol.com