With the New Year starting, now is the time for many people to begin their resolutions. Typically, the top five goals are to diet or eat healthier, to exercise more, to lose weight, to save more and spend less, and to learn a new hobby or skill. While a New Year’s resolution can be an admirable ambition, sticking to it for the next 12 months is often easier said than done, especially when you have the added responsibility of caring for a loved one. Rather than quitting before you start though, it’s important to set practical goals that position you for success rather than failure.
5 Practical New Year's Resolutions for the Busy Caregiver
Here, we’re putting a twist on some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions so despite your busy schedule, you can start the year feeling motivated and ready to thrive.
Resolution #1. Eat Healthier, Specifically
While eating healthy should always be a top priority, without any parameters, this resolution can quickly become overwhelming and difficult to follow. Instead, consider making your goal more specific. For example, you might introduce a “Meatless Monday” or commit to introducing new fruits and vegetables into your family’s diet each week. Eliminate unnecessary sugars (like those in soda) and vow to drink more water.
Resolution #2. Move More
Like making healthy food choices, exercise should also be part of your daily routine. That being said, it can be tough to find time to get to the gym or go out for a run, especially during the winter. Rather than making it a goal to exercise more in the New Year, pledge to move more this year. This can take shape in a variety of ways, from opting for the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during your lunch break to taking a free workout class in the comfort of your own home. If your loved one is feeling up to it, you might even invite them to go for a stroll with you, as we can all benefit from some fresh air.
Resolution #3. Set Aside the Scale
Instead of fixating on a number on the scale, make this year the year that you focus on how your body actually feels. While maintaining a healthy weight is important, track your progress by keeping a fitness journal to help you reach your goals. Remember that although you are caring for a loved one, your wellness shouldn’t go on the back burner, so be sure to make time for self-care.
Resolution #4. Shop Consciously
While saving more and spending less might sound like a simple enough resolution, we all know that various needs (and wants) will inevitably pop up throughout the year. Whether you find yourself shopping for groceries, clothing, household items, or other goods, commit to spending your money more consciously. This means making informed choices that align with your personal values and supporting companies (especially local ones!) that follow ethical business practices, as well as being aware of your own consumption.
Resolution #5. Learn a New Hobby or Skill
This resolution doesn’t need much updating, since learning something new should always be a welcome challenge. And with the rise in popularity of apps like Duolingo and Codeacademy, you can gain new skills—like how to speak in a foreign language or how to code—without even leaving the house. Your loved one might even like to join you!
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