Five Easy But Impactful NYE Resolutions You’ll Want To Set for 2016

At the beginning of every year, it always feels like a fresh start. This is it! It’s a new chapter of possibilities, and this is the year to accomplish something major for yourself – whether it’s personally, professionally or physically.

I made a resolution list that can be applied to ANYONE and is absolutely attainable. It may seem too easy or simple, but little changes can truly make a huge difference, and I challenge you to join me this year! 

1. Mental Health

a.     Being grateful – Practice gratitude more often and reflect on everything you’re truly happy.  It’s easy to feel burned down by difficulties or obstacles that add up, but taking at least 5 minutes every week to jot down what you’re thankful for will lead to a more positive reassurance and satisfaction.

b.    Being less hard on yourself – Unless you’re in the extremely confident group, many people find that they’re their own worst critic. I definitely know I’m in that category! Learning to recognize your accomplishments as little or as big as they are is a very helpful way to build up your self-confidence and awareness in your strengths. Doing a weekly jot of goals you completed or how you’ve worked towards your bigger vision will allow you to see that your progress and all the hard work you put into tasks.

2. Fashion 

        At the beginning of the year, plan to do a major closet cleanse. Many times, we get in the habit of hoarding so many clothes that we forgot it even existed, especially if your closet is as tiny as mine. This year I challenge you to join me in this cleanse and stick to the one IN and one OUT policy. This will prevent overstuffed closets and carefully thought out purchases.

3. Physical Health

Every year I set the same goal of losing x amount of weight and hitting the gym x amount of days a week. That clearly hasn’t worked out so far considering I renew the resolution every year.  I can’ be the only one out there, right? This time around, incorporating different aspects of being healthy and active is the main goal. For example, taking multi-vitamins everyday, finding a fun boxing or spinning class to get involved in this month and switching to another the following, taking 15 minute walks during lunch breaks, taking advantage of the healthy breakfast options at work versus buying it at Starbucks on the way, etc.

4.  Education/Knowledge

 The older I get the more I appreciate reading and diving into a good book. Taking time to read books for pleasure or for educating oneself can be truly rewarding and fun. Also, attending more seminars, conferences, panels where you can learn something new is always insightful and a great way to meet other like-minded people. If you're curious where to start, I highly recommend: Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari, Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll, and The Defining Decade by Meg Jay. 

5.     Family + Friends 

As you grow up, your parents/loved ones get older, and of course that’s kind of a no-brainer. But sometimes it isn’t as obvious that we should spend more time with them or stay in touch when we’re running around trying to juggle our careers and social life. Making more of an effort to pick up the phone or saving money so you can plan your next visit are the little things that they’ll truly appreciate and be happy that you took time to do.