NEW YEAR NEW YOU
WHAT IS your New Year’s resolution for 2016? Find a more fulfilling career, learn new skills or even start a new business? Receive counselling for an ongoing personal issue? What about that old chestnut that everyone seems to resolve after the holiday season – lose weight or get fitter?
As C.S. Lewis said: ‘ You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.’
And while it can seem like an impossible task to keep fit, happy and healthy amidst today’s hectic schedules, as we usher in the New Year changes – big or smallcan have a positive impact on our outlook.
Countless studies indicate that anywhere between 75 to 95 per cent of people fail to achieve their resolutions. According to experts, one of the main reasons people fail is because they set resolutions about what they ‘should’ do, rather than what they really want to do. You have a better chance of fulfilling your New Year’s resolution if you look at gaining something fabulous rather than ‘giving up something’ – particularly if it’s something you enjoy. For example, rather than looking at ‘giving up’ food to lose weight, focus on how fit, healthy and confident you will feel when you achieve your goal.
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be something to dread. Becom- ing an apprentice or taking college courses are a fun and interesting way to improve your earning potential or start a new career. If you’re guilty of using your spare time to do housework, shopping or other tasks, make this year the year your resolve to set aside some time each week just for you. Ideally, remove yourself from distractions at home and ensure other family members know that this time out is non-negotiable. Why not use this time to try something new? Learning a new skill or rediscovering your love for something is good for the soul, and can boost self- esteem. Lose yourself in something creative – jewellery making, flower arranging, cake decorating or drawing, for example.
Weight loss and improved fitness are usually at the top of resolutions lists, but are often the most difficult to achieve. Don’t make the mistake of thinking exercise has to be full-throttle and that you have to be pounding the treadmill until you hurt all over. Aim to fit in just 30 minutes a day of some kind of physical activity. There are a range of exercise classes in Argyll – how about trying Zumba, Pilates or yoga, for example? Or you could look at ways to make exercise more integral to the whole family’s lifestyle, by taking up walking or cycling. A new haircut and colour-and-beauty regime can make you feel and look better in no time at all. Many of us shy away from changing our look, but just a subtle revamp – say, cutting a wispy fringe into your hair, or swapping poker - straight locks for gently tousled – can ‘ re-energise’ your look. Consult with your hair stylist about a cut or colour that flatters and is easy to care for. And once you see how great your new look is, you just might be more motivated to start an exercise routine.
Resolving to get counselling for an ongoing personal issue is the best way to really make a difference in your life. Whether it’s the desire to quit smoking, stop destructive habits or create more harmony within the family unit, counsellors can help in ways we can’t help ourselves.
There is no shortcut to happiness, but the good news is that making even the smallest adjustments can help us attain that elusive state to which we all aspire in 2016.