Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone! With the New Year comes annual pasttimes. Some stayed up until midnight and watch the ball drop in Time Square, inperson or on TV. Some went to a New Years party or hosted the party. Others treatedit like any other day going to bed at the same time like any other day. Thereare traditional New Years day meals from game day food to eat while watching thebowl games to country pork ribs with sauerkraut (oh yeah, it’s for real),black-eyed peas, and lima beans because the peas and beans are symbols of goodluck for the coming year. But the one past time that transcends cultures, philosophies,and age groups are the New Year’s Day Resolutions.

At this time of the year my doctor always asks me “So, any NewYear’s resolutions?” My answer to him is always “I don’t make New Year’s resolutions.If I have to wait until January 1^st to begin a change in my life withthe goal of making it better, then I am unlikely to follow through.” It’s true.Over a decade ago I made the only New Year’s resolution I have ever kept. I gaveup making New Year’s resolutions. Be honest. Ask yourself, “How many resolutionswere successful?” If your success rate is 25% or greater then I am extremelyimpressed and would be honored to meet you. I would love to know your secret. Basedon several articles I have read, an average of 80% of resolutions will fail by February.And yet people continue to make New Year’s resolutions and fail to followthrough. It’s not because they don’t want to make a change. People truly wantto be healthier, get a better job, have more free time, and perhaps find thatspecial person. The problem is people think they have to wait until the newyear to make those changes and do them all at once. My life isn’t perfect. Far fromit. But I have made small changes that make a difference.

When I decided I was tired of getting heavier I decided tobe more mindful of what I ate. That was March. When I found my career hadstalled and my chances of advancement were slim, I decided to go back to schooland improve my skills. That was July. And when I wanted to find that specialsomeone it was October. I bought a horse. Don’t judge.

What I’m trying to say is be honest with yourself. If youreally want to make a change in your life then make one last New Year’s Resolution.“I will not make anymore New Year’s Resolutions!” Decide when the time is rightfor a change and follow through. You may find it is easier to make changes inyour life when you are ready for them. Who knows, that day might even beJanuary 1.