5 Common New Year’s Resolutions That Fail (And What You Can Do About It)
via Flickr user Scott Cresswell
Every year, millions of people vow to be healthier, happier and smarter. Most end up failing miserably. The sad truth is that most people don’t come close to achieving their New Year’s Resolutions. Some barely even make the effort.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. We’ve talked about how to accomplish your New Year’s Resolutions. Here are a few tips to work on common resolutions we all have trouble with.
1. Exercise more
via Flickr user m01229
What we want: Washboard abs, bulging biceps and a butt that looks like it’s been carved from marble
What really happens: Unused gym memberships, rusting Bowflex machines and missed Zumba classes
What you can do:
- There’s a reason why gym regulars detest the “January crowd”. At the start of the year, local gyms are crowded with people hogging the treadmills. By February, half of them have disappeared. Being consistent with exercise is key to meeting your fitness goals.
- Use a fitness tracker like the Fitbit Flex, which automatically tracks your steps, distance and calories burned. Keeping track of your progress may help motivate you and keep you accountable.
- If pumping iron at Slimmers World or jogging in U.P. Diliman doesn’t appeal to you, do something that you actually enjoy. Find a hip-hop dance studio, box at Elorde Gym or hike Mt. Batulao with friends.
2. Eat Healthier
via Flickr user urbanfoodie33
What we want: A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
What really happens: Crying yourself to sleep with a tub of Selecta ice cream tucked under your arm
What you can do:
- Slow changes to your diet will help ease you in to a healthier lifestyle. Gradually reduce your junk food intake, eat more fruits and vegetables and transition to lean proteins and complex carbohydrates.
- Avoid fad diets. Many of them are unhealthy and unsustainable. In fact, you should be skeptical of anything that promises jaw dropping results in a short period of time. Before embarking on a new eating regime, do your research and consult your doctor. Remember, the best diet is the one you stick with.
- Track the food that you eat through a food journal. MyFitnessPal is a website and smartphone app that helps you track your calories, allowing you to see how much you consume in a day.
3. Save Money
via Flickr user Joe Shlabotnik
What we want: A fat bank account and growing investments
What really happens: Mountains of credit card debt from that shiny new iPhone 6
What you can do:
- One of the simplest things you can do for your financial security is setting up a budget. Having a budget allows you to track where your money is going, set aside money for savings and investments and help you prioritize your spending. Use software like YNAB or Microsoft Excel.
- It’s easier said than done, but try to rid yourself of your gadget addiction. Buying the latest and greatest consumer technology can clean out your bank account faster than your teenage daughter at a Forever 21 sale.
4. Be a Nicer Person
via Flickr user Snugg LePup
What we want: To be a kinder and more decent human being
What really happens: Spending the rest of the year taking passive aggressive shots at people through your Facebook status
What you can do:
- Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about. There are thousands of ways to help. In a country where too many people live below the poverty line, every little bit helps. Two worthy causes you should consider are building houses with the folks at Gawad Kalinga and teaching badminton to orphans with Hands On Manila.
- Do one nice thing for somebody every day. It doesn’t have to be complicated. A helping hand or a sincere compliment can put a smile on anybody’s face.
5. Travel
via Flickr user Nattu
What we want: Lazy afternoons sailing on the French Riviera
What really happens: Window shopping at SM North
What you can do:
- If you find yourself struggling to finance your holidays, consider setting aside a bank account or fund devoted exclusively to travel. Remember, that money is for travel only. A new PS4 may be tempting but it’s not going to fly you to Tokyo.
- Not every great vacation has to include a week at a five-star hotel. For the budget-conscious traveler, staying at hostels or couchsurfing are legitimate alternatives. If you do your research, you may be able to score great deals without having to sell your kidney in the process.
- Traveling locally is not only good for the country, it’s also lighter on our wallets. Filipinos are lucky enough to live in one of the most beautiful and diverse places on the planet. Take the time to experience the old world charm of Vigan or enjoy a leisurely ATV ride in the shadow of Mt. Mayon.
5 Common New Year’s Resolutions That Fail (And What You Can Do About It)
