On January 1, everyone in the world has something in common: resolutions. It’s that very special day each year where we, as a collective human race, join together to try to remake ourselves, hoping to be better versions in the coming year. Lose weight. Stop smoking. Work out. We’ve tried them all. And, by late March or early April, we’ve long forgotten them, settling back into our usual patterns. Well, this year it’s going to be different and it’s going to stick. Why? Because instead of just making an individual commitment, we can aim to make resolutions that help more than just ourselves. By focusing on a greater goal, we’ll be more likely to stay motivated and committed, with the added benefit of helping others. And this might just make ’09 the year we finally really do stick with it.
Ditch the TV and Promote Literacy
High levels of TV watching have been correlated with an increased risk of being overweight. We could all benefit from turning off the TV for a few hours and expanding our minds through literature. So, in addition to all those works of fiction and recipe books you’ll be pouring over, why not also volunteer to read to children at the library? Or, volunteer your time teaching adults how to read. There are many people who would love to cozy up with a good book, but never learned how to read. Lend your skills and read with a new friend.
Support a Local Farmer, Earn a Balanced Diet
It’s easy to slip back into bad eating habits once the resolutions fade into the past, but by subscribing to a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), the good food will literally fall in your lap. You’ll get a basket of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables each week or month for less than the price of a couple meals at McDonalds. Not only will you be ramping up your vitamin and antioxidant intake, you’ll be supporting your local, small farmer and contributing to sustainable agriculture. A win-win!
Start Sweating for the Greater Good
Getting in shape is a great idea, but it is often one of the hardest resolutions to keep. This year, why not prioritize exercise while training for a good cause? Get on your road bike and train for the MS150, which supports research for multiple sclerosis. I have personally done this ride in Washington State and was amazed at the gratitude shown by people suffering from MS and inspired by riding 150 miles over two days for someone who can’t. Another amazing experience is training for a breast cancer walk. You might think, “Walking? Anyone can do that.” But, I dare you to walk eight hours straight for two days. There’s training involved, believe me.
