It's the 'new year, new me' mentality. Many people come to the new year and think of things they can do differently in their lives, and sometimes it's hard to stick to. They may even have a tendency to revert back to what is normal for them - falling back into the same patterns, same routines. So here are 10 realistic new years resolutions you can easily stick to!
1. Go to the gym more.
Yes, this is the most cliche resolution ever. This is 99% of what most people say they are going to start doing on January 1st, and why you will suddenly feel more crowded if you are someone that goes to the gym on a regular basis already. But try to be a person who sticks to it. I, myself, have a hard time doing so, but if you find a workout buddy or have someone keeping you accountable, this is something that is very do-able.
Half the time I go to the gym because my boyfriend drags me there (probably because he's sick of hearing me say I need to go and then not actually going). Keep in mind that sticking to this one could help you feel better, be more confident, and overall boost your whole mentality.
2. Eat healthier.
This doesn't mean you can't still eat pizza or tacos or whatever you love. It just means be sensible about it. Eat normal portion sizes and have the unhealthy stuff less often. Cut back on eating out to once a week. Listen to your mom, and eat your vegetables. You'll probably start to look and feel healthier.
3. Save money.
One way to do this could be to put away 50 dollars per pay check. Or however much you feel, but do it for every paycheck and then DON'T TOUCH IT. When you create a budget (which you should be doing often), pretend like that 50 dollars is not part of your income. Pretend like your savings account is not even there.
Saving money helps give yourself a cushion in case there is ever an emergency and you absolutely have to use it - it will give you peace of mind when the time comes. You will be thanking yourself later for doing so.
4. Make time for those who matter.
This one is pretty self-explanatory. If someone matters to you, make time to nurture the relationship and be there for them. You never know when you'll need your support system and making sure you have one is going to make a big difference in how you get through difficult situations.
Also, be present when you are with others and make sure to pay attention when they tell you something. Don't forget, when making time for others, it can also benefit you to cut out anyone who drags you down or treats you poorly. You seriously don't need that in your life.
5. Get more sleep.
I know, there are never enough hours in the day, but getting enough sleep is super important for your mental and physical health. Plus, who doesn't love a good nap? Even just a 20-minute cat-nap can help you recoup and finish the rest of the day strong. Sleep is everything.
6. Take time for yourself.
Even if it's only for 5 minutes a day, find something you enjoy and do it! This can make a big difference and help you manage stress more easily. You could find new experiences or hobbies to try, like learning an instrument or trying out a new activity. Just do something that you want to do.
7. Make a new friend.
You can never have too many friends. Go out of your comfort zone and say hi to someone at the gym, at work, or at school. You can probably find something in common, and maybe you will find a new best friend. But you never know how amazing someone is or what ways they could impact your life unless you put yourself out there and give someone a chance.
8. Travel.
Travel as much as you can! Experience new cultures - meet new and different people. It doesn't have to be somewhere far far away, although if you can, you should. You could even just do something like go to three new cities, create a bucket list for the excitement of crossing them off, or even put a map on your wall and pin everywhere you have gone. Road trips are fun, as long as you drive safely and keep good company.
9. Say yes to something you normally wouldn't.
This is another way to go out of your comfort zone. You don't have to go crazy or do something that would go against your morals or beliefs, but do something you have always wanted to do but said no to, such as dancing with your friends when you're out, even if you think you'll look stupid. Don't care about what anyone else thinks. Lose your inhibitions and just let yourself have fun.
10. Think positively.
This one is not always easy. Sometimes it's hard to stay positive when life throws you curve balls. But when it does happen, take a deep breath and come up with one thing or one way your current situation can be spun in a positive light. Replace your "I'm sorry" with "thank you" and spread love to those around you!
2016 wasn't all bad, but let's make 2017 even better! Happy New Year!
