May 13, 2010
Top Ten New Year's Resolutions
According to About.com:Pittsburgh, ( http://pittsburgh.about.com/ ) the following are the Top 10 New Year's Resolutions - and I don't think anybody is going to be surprised by the subjects.  And the nasty little truth about resolutions is that people often identify the "trouble" spots, but generally don't come up with a plan to deal with them.  Nonetheless:1. Spend More Time with Family and Friends ...meaning work shouldn't always usurp all your time, attention, and importance.  About 50% of folks make this resolution.2. Lose weight: since two-thirds of American adults are fat or obese, this is a major issue.  Unfortunately, the fat level rises each year, in spite of this ubiquitous resolution.3. Get Fit: getting regular exercise is probably the #1 means to a better life; it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, improves arthritis, and makes you feel sexier.  What more can one say?4. Quit Smoking: it turns out that on the average, smokers try about four times to stop before they quit for good.  It's a nasty habit -- it stains teeth, contributes to high risks for certain cancers, and gums up your lungs.5. Enjoy life more: of course lousy things happen, but spending most of your time being upset about it is a waste of precious time.  In spite of challenges and tragedies, take up a new hobby, learn something new, or take up a new sport.  It all results in increased happiness which results in you being nicer and more appreciative of what you have.6. Quit Drinking: just think of the excess calories!  If you are a problem drinker, trust me, your personality is better when you're sober.  Check out AA.7. Get Out of Debt: living beyond your means gives you "stuff" and robs you of sanity.  The fears and frustrations of debt counteract any fun you have from living beyond your means.  Go to a financial planner and figure out what you can do to get control of your spending and repay your debts. 8. Learn Something New: I'm taking a motorcycle training course.  There isn't a year that goes by in my life without my trying something new.  An adventure of the mind, body or spirit is a great thing.  Learning makes you more interesting and gives you goals which energize your spirit.9. Help Others: donating and volunteering are extremely wonderful activities because they make you feel like you do mean something to others and you're not just spinning in your gerbil cage.  Reach out to others and life becomes more tender and meaningful.10. Get Organized: it is quite difficult to do anything if your home and workspace are chaos.  There are experts, DVD's, courses, websites and consultants who can help you put everything in its place.  Then, learn to slow down and enjoy putting your toys away before you go on to your next activity. My #1 suggestion to America is spend no more time writing nasty things on blogs.  Instead, try to be positive and creative; hate and be angry less.

Posted by Staff at 12:58 AM