Maybe it's my age (40), or my personality (matter-of-fact), but I stopped making new year's resolutions several years ago (though last year I did make Christmas resolutions). Yes, I understand how the prospect of a new year makes us feel contemplative of the previous year. And I understand that this leads to us wanting to better ourselves/our lives in the future. But why should January be the month you begin eating healthily, lose 35 pounds, show patience or learn a new skill?
Life is not made up of stops and starts. It does not pause in December and begin anew in January. Life is continuous (I'm sure you've noticed). We keep going. We keep trying. Maybe it helps some people to write down their resolutions for the new year. But I'm sure it hurts many of those who struggle to fulfill their resolutions. So I say, forego those new year's resolutions. Don't put so much pressure on yourself to be happier, thinner or richer in the next 12 months. Don't feel like you need to learn to play the ukulele, take up power yoga or become the best parent in the world. Just be you.
And if you really want to enrich your life, start this very minute. If there's something you want from life, go and get it. There's nothing magical about the 1st January. Or you could be like me, and skip the resolutions altogether. And if you really want to make a list - write a grocery list. I don't know about you, but my kids are eating me out of house and home.
Have a happy new year! xx
Laura
I do resolutions...but usually do them whenever I want...January 1st, sure! August 17th, why not??? Happy New Year to you 🙂 🙂 🙂
Laura
http://www.24-7style.com
Californian Mum in London
Post authorGood thinking. If you want to do something, then start achieving them no matter what the date is. Happy new year Laura! x
Not A Frumpy Mum
I don't do resolutions either, gave up on them years ago as I never stuck to them. xx
Californian Mum in London
Post authorAmen. Why do people keep doing them and failing year after year? In the end, it just makes you feel bad. Happy new year! xx
Jennifer Howze
I do like resolutions, although I agree with you, they don't have to come just once a year. It's great to renew your resolutions throughout the year. Right now I'm just trying to decide what mine will be...
Californian Mum in London
Post authorMy husband makes one resolution each year, which he normally has success with. He hasn't decided yet either. 🙂
Kim Carberry
I don't do resolutions either....
I always think if you really want to do something you should just do it and not wait until the first of January!
Californian Mum in London
Post authorI'm glad I'm not the only one Kim. 🙂 Happy new year!
Mia Olander
Me neither!
Don't understand starting a strict diet in January either. Why would you go around being hungry in one of the coldest and darkest month of the year.... Make no sense to me!
Californian Mum in London
Post authorOh my gosh Mia, I have never thought of that. You're right! We shouldn't be starving ourselves when we need the body fat to stay warm. haha Have a happy new year!
Mia Olander
Exactly! It is just a cold or flu waiting to happen!
Happy New Year to you and the family. Xx
John @dadyougeek
I am with you on the new year resolutions, I have set myself a goal rather than a resolution.... or is that the same thing??
Sam
Have just referenced this post in my latest. Think small - that's my motto ;-D http://andthenthefunbegan.co.uk/my-happiness-project/life-goals-for-2016/
brummymummyof2
Happy New Year my beautiful chummy! Here's to hopefully seeing you more in 2016!!! x
Californian Mum in London
Post authorHappy new year sweetie pops! Hope to see you soon! xx
Meghan Fenn
I only make business new years resolutions but they are not really resolutions, more like business planning. Personal resolutions are not as powerful because there's not as much incentive really, so I can see why you've given up making them. Happy New Year! x
Californian Mum in London
Post authorYou're right, the incentives just aren't there. Have a great 2016!! x
Ems
I tend to make a few resolutions inside my head, things I'd like to achieve but I don't hold myself to them. If I don't do things, its no biggie really. I like your comment about the year not stopping come January, its just continuous! Happy New Year lady, lets meet soon x
Californian Mum in London
Post authorYes, we must go out for some belated bday drinks!!!