Jody Victor : It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year's resolutions, and people all over the world have been breaking them ever since. The early Christians believed the first day of the new year should be spent reflecting on past mistakes and resolving to improve oneself in the new year. Here are the most popular modern-day resolutions. Maybe one of them will be right for you.
Fit in Fitness - Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else know to man. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis. In short, exercise keeps you healthy and makes you look and feel better.
Tame the Bulge - Over 66 percent of adult Americans are considered overweight or obese by recent studies, so it is not surprising to find that weight loss is one of the most popular New Year's resolutions. Setting reasonable goals and staying focused are the two most important factors in sticking with a weight loss program.
Quit Smoking - If you have resolved to make this the year that you stamp our your smoking habit, over-the-counter availability of nicotine replacement therapy now provides easier access to proven quit-smoking aids. Even if you've tried to quit before and failed, don't let it get you down. On average, smokers try about four times before they quit for good.
Enjoy Life More - Given the hectic, stressful lifestyles of millions of Americans, it is no wonder that "enjoying life more" has become a popular resolution in recent years. It's an important step to a happier and healthier you! Try something new, take up a new hobby or sport, go to a theater performance, or head to the local spa.
Get Out of Debt - If money was a big source of stress in your life last year, this may be the resolution for you. Join the millions of Americans who have resolved to spend this year getting a handle on their finances.
Learn Something New - Perhaps you are considering a career change, want to learn a new language, or just how to fix your computer. Whether you take a course or read a book, you'll find education to be one of the easiest, most motivating New Year's resolutions to keep. You can find a wide variety of courses and programs at your local community college, YMCA, Museum of Art, or Center for the Arts.
Help Others - A popular, non-selfish New Year's resolution, volunteerism can take many forms. Whether you choose to spend time helping out at your local library, mentoring a child, or building a house, there are many nonprofit volunteer organizations that could really use your help.
Get Organized - Organization can be a very reasonable goal. Whether you want your home organized enough that you can invite someone over on a whim, or your office organized enough that you can find the stapler when you need it, there are professional organizers you can hire, books and articles you can read, and organizational items you can buy to get you started