The new year brings a chance to make resolutions that will better yourself and others. Sadly, many of those goals are broken within the first few months of the year. According to a study by US News, approximately 80 percent of all new year resolutions are unsuccessful. One of the main causes of this is unrealistic goals are set that are easy to give up on. This new year can be the time to make practical resolutions that you can stick to, even without leaving home. Here are 8 New Year’s resolutions that can prosper in 2024.
1.     Get Organized
The new year is a perfect time to organize your living space and remove the clutter, so you feel refreshed and less stressed. Whether you are staying in your home or planning to move to a different space or Life Plan Community, there are many ways you can declutter your space. Start small by choosing one room or closet to begin organizing and work your way around your home. You can organize your space in any system that works best for you. Along the way, you may discover items you have forgotten about or find things that you don’t need anymore. These unused items can be donated to those in need. You can seek out donation centers and organizations that will take old clothes, household items and even furniture, to put them to good use.
Sun Health Communities collaborates with Moving Station, which is a company that can help with the transition of your items if you are choosing to relocate in the new year. Our Wellness Coordinators can assist in the coordination of these moving services for Sun Health At Home members.
2.     Spend More Time with Loved Ones
Whether virtually or in person, connecting with loved ones can make a huge impact on both of your lives. Make it a goal to set up at least one social activity each week with your friends or family. You can try video calling or doing an activity together, to build and keep relationships. There are many platforms and types of smart technology you can use to virtually connect with others, such as Zoom, Facetime, Skype, and more. This year, prioritize your relationships to increase your sense of belonging, boost your happiness and feel more connected in your community.
3.     Incorporate Nutritious Food
Eating healthier is one of the most popular resolutions each year that doesn’t always succeed. Rather than putting pressure on yourself to eat perfectly, begin with small healthy steps that you can feel confident you’ll achieve. For example, try incorporating one serving of fruits and vegetables into each meal. Making a simple goal can help you feel more successful to build up to a healthier lifestyle. You can also motivate yourself to eat healthier by exploring new cuisines and dishes. With additional time spent at home, it can be the perfect opportunity to try out new delicious and healthy recipes. If you make your health goals simple and exciting, you will be more motivated to stay on track throughout the year.
4.     Focus on Fitness
Getting in shape is another common resolution that can end up unsuccessful. Rather than setting unrealistic expectations, make it a goal to spend at least 20 minutes a day getting some form of physical activity. This can help get your heart rate up and release endorphins for a happy and healthy heart. You don’t need a gym membership to prioritize your fitness in 2024. Here are some ideas of how you can spend your 20 minutes of activity a day:
- Walking
- Gardening
- Tennis
- Stretching
- Taking on a home improvement project
- Swimming
You can also enjoy LiveWell Learning On-Demand classes hosted by Sun Health Wellness. Explore the health and wellness courses on a variety of subjects that can help you stay active through the year.
5.     Devote Time to Reading
Make it a goal to read more books in 2024. You can explore new genres, authors and topics to stay engaged and increase your knowledge in many areas. Research shows that reading regularly can help build your vocabulary, reduce stress, help you sleep better, increases your mood and can prevent age-related cognitive decline. You can set a goal to read one or more book a month through the new year and gain many of the health benefits related to reading literature.
6.     Spend Money More Wisely
A great way to be wiser with your money is to create a realistic budget for yourself. Focus on your future aspirations to set your spending limits and saving goals. Whether you are saving for retirement, an upcoming trip or wanting to increase your emergency savings, setting realistic amounts can help you reach your financial goals successfully.
Sun Health Communities offers an Independent Living Cost Calculator as well as a Comprehensive Planning Report that can help you prepare your finances and budget properly for retirement. You can also speak with a residency counselor to discuss different residency agreement options and learn more about costs associated with a Sun Health Community.
7.     Go Green
You may make it a goal to be more eco-friendly in 2024. Implementing simple changes into your everyday routine can make a large impact over time. You can be mindful of your use of plastic, recycle, buy locally, utilize reusable grocery bags or try composting. Any of these steps can help you feel like you are doing your part to keep the environment clean without even leaving your home.
8.     Enjoy Life to the Fullest
2024 brings a new year of opportunity, hope and a prosperous life. Begin by imagining your ideal year and prioritize what is most valuable to you. From building relationships, to improving yourself, to giving back to others, you should seek to enjoy every opportunity in this new year.
For help achieving all your retirement goals, turn to the support of a Sun Health At Home Wellness Coordinator. We are here to help you enjoy your year to the fullest. Contact us today to see how we can help in the new year. Wishing you a happy, healthy and safe 2024!
