This time of year, everyone is putting forth their resolutions to improve themselves. Invariably, these resolutions fall by the wayside as real life gets in the way or as people realize just how difficult it is to change. Normally, I am not a huge proponent of such yearly resolutions, as I am a big believer in trying to improve oneself throughout the year. Why wait for the change of a calendar?
Then again, 2011 was not a good year. Nothing horrible in the traditional sense happened. No one died. We have good jobs. We are able to pay our bills with no problems. We remain happily married. At the same time, my job remains my biggest bone of contention, to the point where I came close to quitting. While we have nothing life-threatening, my entire family has not been entirely healthy for almost three months now. I’ve gained weight and am now at my heaviest non-pregnancy weight ever. Heck, I took a blogging break for the first time ever – the person who swore that such things were unnecessary as long as one followed certain guidelines to prevent burnout. I can finally admit that I am unhappy, which means things need to change.
Are resolutions the answer though? I feel as if New Year’s resolutions are somewhat of a joke because everyone knows that people will drop them before the end of the first quarter. We all have things we want to change, but what makes New Year’s resolutions so special? Is there something that is more effective and successful in helping people make much-needed lifestyle changes without the added pressure?
As I struggle with the decision to formally list resolutions for the year, I am curious what others think. Are you making resolutions this new year? Why? Do you go public with your resolutions or keep them private? Why? How successful do you think you will be, if you are truly honest with yourself? Are such declarations worth it? Please share your thoughts with me!
There is something about a clean slate, but I feel that way each week and each month. I just don't get why it is considered only a yearly thing.
I'm with you on this. While occasionally I've felt the need for change, and tried to set a resolution or two, I just don't understand why it's better to start it at the new year? I mean, I see the fun aspect, but I feel like if you started something at some other point it might be better and more likely to work because it's more than an impulse? I dunno.
I have been absolutely horrible about giving up anything for Lent for the past few years, but you are on to something. Studies have shown that it takes about a month for a new activity to become a habit. Perhaps, this year I should really work on coming up with some fabulous Lenten observations to drive home the year of change?
I'm usually like that too. I typically get too caught up in all the new calendar/journal/planner stuff to worry too much about New Year's resolutions.
I've never been a resolution person. I get urges throughout the year to make changes or to focus on different specific parts of my life but the New Year's stuff has never been a thing for me.
My recent post Wordless Wednesday #117
I feel the same way about mine now! All this talk, I better bring my A-game!
"I feel as if New Year's resolutions are somewhat of a joke because everyone knows that people will drop them before the end of the first quarter."
Amen. That's why I made mine simple this year: only three, quick and to the point. No major goals of running a marathon or losing x amount of pounds, just walk, read, pray every day. That's it.
Of course, now I have to not drop them before the end of the first quarter so you don't get the last laugh. 🙂
My recent post K-I-S-S-ing this year goodbye from the start