New Year Resolutions - Habits Worth Keeping
New Year Resolutions – Habits Worth Keeping
Most people make them and break them in short order - usually, because they’re trying to do too much at once. Even little changes can mean big improvements if you’re willing to take small, but significant, steps. Try any one of these tips:
Want to Save Money and Stick within a Budget?
• Create a simple, easy-to-follow budget for each major expense to keep close track of expenditures
• Put cash in envelopes designated for an expense (such as “groceries”) instead of using debit/credit cards – when the cash is gone it’s gone until next paycheck
• Allot a reasonable amount toward entertainment and fun – you’ll stay on track if you don’t feel deprived of everything you like
• Create your own “Christmas Club” account, saving a small amount each paycheck for next year’s holiday expenditures. That way, the money is there for the holidays and you don’t start the New Year in credit card debt
Want to Eat More Healthily? • Cook at home and bring your lunch to work – you’ll save money and control everything that goes into your food without “giving in” to restaurant indulgences
• Don’t cut out favorite foods completely – enjoy them on occasion and in moderation
• Plan for snacking so you have satisfying, high-protein foods on hand when that snack-attack happens
• Have one or two vegetarian dinners per week with an alternative to meat as your protein source
Want to Be Happier? • Be grateful for what you have instead of focusing on what you don’t have – things can always be worse • Stay in touch with those who are important to you. It’s easy to lose touch in today’s busy world – your network is for more than just business
• Exercise, even a little, to get your blood pumping and to feel the invigorating charge that comes from physical activity • Be as kind to yourself as you are to others – you deserve it and you’ll smile more!
