Resolutions? Keep it simple.

This is the time of year where many people stretch, yawn, and realize their elastic waistbands are a bit tight after that prime rib or turkey or too many Hot Toddies. New Year's Resolutions are stated early and often, and promises are made to join gyms and start diets.

I'm guilty of this. Every year I strongly state that I will lose that weight! I will eat better! I will keep my house clean! I will journal every day! I will, I will, I will. There is much implied in that "I will" phrase, and it may become impossible when it's multiplied by the tens of promises we make ourselves whenever January 1st rolls around.

I looked up the definition of "resolution", and this is a small part of what I found on the Merriam-Webster online site:

4

: a formal expression of opinion, will, or intent voted by an official body or assembled group

 

That is the closest definition I found on those pages under the word "resolution" which matches what we do every December or January 1st. There are six definitions, some with sub-definitions. SIX. Why are we making this so difficult? And by this particular definition, why do we need someone else's vote to improve ourselves?

 

If you want to make a positive change in yourself, do it. You don't have to wait for January 1st. You don't have to wait for anything or anybody. You are the only person living in your body (this does not apply to pregnant ladies, of course!) and the only one who can exact positive changes within yourself. You know what works, right? And you know what doesn't.  

 

Be YOU, the best way you know how to be. That is the only resolution you need.