“My New Year’s Resolution list usually starts with the desire to lose between ten and three thousand pounds,” jokes actress and writer Nia Vardalos. Yes, it’s meant to be funny. But it also accurately pokes fun at traditional New Year’s resolutions that focus on our flaws and set us up to fail. Though a goal of between 10 and 3000 pounds does give Nia a bit of latitude.
As active adults who have been around the New Year’s block—several times—maybe this year is the perfect time for unique New Year’s resolutions. Forget words like “improve” and “better”. Replace them with fun and laughter. Set goals that motivate you to surprise yourself and those around you. You don’t have to overhaul the same old same old. Just bring your new 2020 state of mind, an outlook that celebrates life. Here are some New Year, new “me” ideas!
Rule Number One
If it makes you happy, do it. There is no time like the present to dive into the deep end and embrace all opportunities in your path. Whether it’s travel, a new class, or a new friend, just say yes!
Face a Fear
Facing fear can mean anything from going to Social Hour by yourself to hosting a party, to taking a flying lesson. Think about something you’ve always wanted to do but feared trying, and this year, do it!
Surprise Your Family
No matter how young at heart you know you are, your kids—those same humans you taught to walk—are starting to think they are cooler than you. Surprise them with something unexpected like a wine tour, rock concert or a glamping weekend. Let them know you take the “active” in active adult seriously!
Follow Up
When you make a new friend or run into an old one you regret not seeing more often, make it a point to get a phone number and reach out to make a date. Someone needs to take the first step. Why not you? Active adulthood is all about people and relationships. Make 2020 the year you make the first move.
As writer Vern Mclellan posits, “what the New Year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the New Year.” Let 2020 be the year you rise to the challenge of bringing fun and laughter into your world.