With Christmas in the rear view and a fresh layer of cheer hanging over out belts, ‘tis the season for resolutions.
Groan.
Yes. With the calendar page turning to full reset on another spin around the sun, it’s time to find ways to improve.
In no particular order, here are the top-10 items people pledge to tend to on Jan. 1:
n Stay fit and healthy. That chestnut is as aged as Father Time. Those who’ve already committed to fitness and health in their daily routine, there is little to resolve. For those of us grappling with fitness and health, this can be one of the more daunting resolutions out there. Particularly if it involves walking away from addictive vices like tobacco and alcohol.
n Lose weight. Another easy one for the have-nots (those not carrying any extra weight), but more difficult for the “haves.”
n Enjoy life to the fullest. For those lucky enough to be living in Cochrane, one of the easier resolutions to keep. We live in a place and time where our lives are easy to fill up and enjoy.
n Spend less, save more. A noble notion, but difficult to keep as the spending power attached to our dollar falls like autumn fruit from a tree. Even more difficult if the resolution just above involves consumption and the spending that goes with it.
n Spend more time with family and friends. Barring any form of estrangement, stress or long distances between friends and relatives, one of the easiest resolutions to keep. And a good one. Strengthening the ties between each other is a laudable endeavour and strengthens our community.
n Get organized. For those who struggle with organization, call in an organized friend or family member to help. Combined with the above resolution, you’ll knock off two resolutions for the price of one.
n Learn something new. Knowledge is king. Broadening horizons is a great resolution, and not too difficult to keep. It could involve anything from volunteering for a community organization to taking up painting or writing. Or you could get involved in an activity or sport, which would also play into the top 2 resolutions above.
n Travel more. Could take a bite out of your resolution to save more but, according to most who travel, well worth the tradeoff. The great thing about Cochrane is travel could be as simple and inexpensive as driving to any of our nearby provincial and national parks. The world visits and enjoys our backyard. There’s no reason we can’t do the same.
n Read more. Cochrane’s Nan Boothby Memorial Library is a great place to get your read on. With a new self-scan book checkout (BABS, Borrow A Book Swiftly) and programs for young kids and teens, this vibrant community space makes this resolution a no-brainer and easy as pie.
And, finally:
n No resolutions. For those fortunate enough to not need to change a thing.
Happy New Year!
