health

10 Easy New Year's Resolutions and How You Can Achieve Them

Millions of people create New Year's resolutions and rarely keep them past January. Losing weight and getting in shape are two of the most popular resolutions, but thousands of people sign up for gym memberships they never use and order diet books they never read. Instead of setting resolutions that you won't keep, consider the following 10 goals to live a healthier, more fulfilled life.

1. Read More

You can keep this resolution flexible based on your busy schedule. Simply commit to reading more than the previous year. You can try to read one new book every two weeks or once a month.

2. Be More Polite

When someone opens the door for you or helps you, say thank you. You can also send thank you cards, tell your loved ones that you appreciate them, or avoid yelling on your phone in public.

3. Exercise for 5 Minutes

Starting a new workout routine and dragging yourself to the gym at 6 a.m. may not be realistic. Instead, commit to exercising in 5-minute portions to make it easier.

4. Start a Gratitude List

One of the best ways to improve your mood and to feel happier is to focus on gratitude. Create a short list of three things every day that you're grateful for and keep track of how you feel.

5. Let Go of Grudges

When you hold on to grudges, they hurt you more than they hurt the other person. Learn to let go of past mistakes and problems, so you'll feel lighter.

6. Learn One New Thing

Try to learn one new thing every day. This can include studying history, learning a new language or simply reading articles about subjects that interest you.

7. Organize One Space

Whether you need to clean up an overflowing email inbox or get rid of clutter in the living room, pick one space to organize. Then, try to maintain it, so it stays clutter-free.

8. Do the Hardest Thing on Any List First

Start the habit of doing the hardest thing on your to-do list first. It can make you feel more accomplished and help you get through the rest of the list easier.

9. Laugh More

You can watch a comedy, read funny books or tell silly jokes. Try to laugh more every day to relieve stress and feel more positive.

10. Do Something For You

From going on a nature walk alone to reading a book at home, pick something that you enjoy doing alone.

Don't set boring New Year's resolutions that you won't keep for more than a week. Try these 10 ideas that will help you have a better year and a happier life. To make sure you achieve them, keep the goals realistic and track your progress. Change one habit at a time and don't take on too much, or you'll end up abandoning these resolutions just like you neglected the gym membership.

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