As we welcome a brand new year, it’s a time for fresh beginnings and an opportunity to make healthy changes in our lives. Many people set overly ambitious New Year’s resolutions and often struggle to achieve the results they desire. This year let’s focus on realistic resolutions—goals that require effort but remain attainable.
The New Year is a fantastic starting point! Set plans and resolutions that are both realistic and achievable. What would you like to change most about yourself in 2025? Physical health? Lifestyle? Social connections? Let’s explore ways to improve these three areas in the coming months.
Physical Health
One resolution you could consider is to improve your physical well-being by losing weight and becoming more active. This can be as simple as committing to a daily walk. Before starting any new exercise program, consult your doctor to ensure you have no health issues that might impede your progress. Weigh yourself before you begin to establish a baseline for measuring your progress. Aim to walk at least a mile each day, gradually increasing your distance over time. You can track your steps using your smartphone or a pedometer—approximately 2,000 steps equal one mile. Set a goal to walk at least a mile daily and increase it as your fitness level improves.
As you grow stronger and fitter, consider adding exercises to your walking routine or doing them from the comfort of your living room. There are many simple fitness plans available online that require minimal equipment. You might need a yoga mat or a chair; water bottles can serve as weights, as can cans of soup. Resistance bands are inexpensive and easy to store! The options for at-home fitness are abundant!
Livability
Does your living space feel cluttered and chaotic? This might be the perfect year to take stock of your closets and workspace at home. Clear away clutter and items that you seldom use or no longer need. Consider framing and displaying some of your old photos to enjoy them daily. Go through your clothing and donate items you haven’t worn in years that may no longer fit or be in style, including shoes and exercise equipment. If you haven’t used something in years, why hold onto it? A thorough decluttering of your living space can lift your spirits and help you feel more organized.
You can also undertake a project to refresh your living space, giving it a clean, vibrant appearance to start the new year. Consider painting your living room or bedroom, adding a new carpet or rug, or hanging artwork on the walls. These changes can inject creativity and vibrance into your home! Even something as simple as adding new throw pillows to your couch can bring color and energy to your space!
Social Connections
The New Year is also a great time to think about expanding your social circle. Consider getting a pet or joining a community group. You might invite friends over for dinner or, if cooking isn’t your forte, suggest going out to eat. Consider starting a weekly or monthly coffee meetup. I enjoy sending cards—both in the mail and online—and you could revive the art of pen pal exchanges to make new acquaintances. The best way to meet new friends is to engage in activities you enjoy while remaining open to new interactions. Don’t hesitate to explore new interests, whether that’s learning a language, trying your hand at art, or taking up cooking! There are countless experiences waiting to be discovered. Perhaps you could host a monthly movie night and invite a few friends to enjoy it with you. Life is an empty basket…until you fill it with experiences and memories!
As we step into 2025, take a moment to plan how you will embrace this year and make it the best one yet. Here’s to being your best self!
Dave Shelton
Freelance graphic artist and sign designer. 66-year-old retiree who lives in Arizona with his husband, Tom.
I have also been a cartoonist, comedian, and have created articles in publications throughout the United States. My focus in retirement is primarily health, fitness, and laughter content.
I create my content based on my own life experiences.
