Tag: new year

I’m sure we’ve all done it at this time of year. We’ve made New Year’s resolutions in the hopes that some significant area of our lives will be improved as we look towards our future. While I’ve never been a big fan of the practice, I fully endorse the underlying principle involved. Who doesn’t want a better quality of life as they anticipate the coming year? Whether it be the pursuit of a secret dream or passion, taking hold of a new financial opportunity, or like me, resolving to hit the gym; new resolutions can give us a sweet sense of direction and added motivation.

You’re just over the first few weeks of the New Year. So, how has the "new you" been shaping up?

Most commonly, many have resolved to lose weight or exercise more. Sometimes we pledge to give up a chronic behavior that we know is not healthy, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, or over spending. The statistics vary, but no matter which reference you choose, the success rate of resolutions is dismal; ranging from approximately 8-45%. That means over half and probably closer to 90% of those who make a resolution will fail.

It’s easier to commit to a New Year’s resolution if you have company—and who better to team up with than your spouse? Like many couples, you may resolve to work together to improve your financial wellness. Just as you’ll have better luck shedding a few pounds if you have support eliminating sugar from your diet, adopting healthier financial habits can be easier if you both commit to the goal.

Getting your financial house in order generally involves these three steps: save more, pay off your debt and plan for the future. The trouble is, many people simply articulate these goals. While listing these resolutions is terrific, it’s just a first step. You need a plan to make each happen. So, how can you become more proactive to ensure your success?

The romance doesn’t drain out of a marriage overnight. It’s a slow trickle over time.

Counselors will tell you that the leaks in a marriage or love relationship are a hazard of daily life. Careers, children, bills and a variety of daily responsibilities add to the problem, one drip at a time.

Don’t fret… because there is still hope. Men who haven’t given as much attention to the relationship as they should can reignite the romance through simple and inexpensive actions.

New Year’s resolutions are well intentioned, but we sometimes become overzealous with our goals. Instead of setting the bar impossibly high, resolve to make small changes this year. Be a kinder, freshened up, more polished version of yourself by focusing on the details. After all, it’s the little things that make up the big picture.

1. Go green in small steps.
Switch your bills to paperless. Carry a cloth hankie instead of using tissues. Forgo the receipt at the ATM or gas station.

An optimist stays up until midnight to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves. ~ Bill Vaughan

It is the time of year when many of us make New Year's resolutions. The most popular include things like losing weight or getting fit, getting the finances in order, organizing our life, an effort to quit smoking and reduce or stop drinking and even try to have more fun. I even read that fifty-percent of Americans say their New Year's resolution is to spend more time with family and friends.

Another year is coming to a close and it is a great time to look ahead to new learning experiences for 2019. Here are 13 ways to add fun and adventure to your New Year:

1. Learn how to use your gadgets. Spend some time getting to know your tablet, e-reader, smartphone or digital camera and learn more about all the things they can do for you. You will feel empowered when you no longer have to ask your spouse or teen to program your new toys. Watch out tech world, here you come!