In my last post, I described how I plan to improve myself in 2016 by creating a list of several things I should do this year that will hopefully result in a healthier, happier, and more productive me. This is in contrast to the typical laundry list of “can’t haves” and “don’t dos” that I’ve drawn up in years past. In short, I’m replacing the negative approach to making resolutions with a more positive plan of attack for improving my life. In this post, I am excited to share with you a few proactive steps I am taking towards better physical, mental, and emotional health.
One thing I have already begun doing is drinking more tea. I have always had a soft spot for soda, but I am well aware how bad it is for me. While the sugary goodness of the drink is appealing, I realize that I typically drink it when I want/need a boost of energy. So, to get my caffeine fix and avoid the sugary mess of my carbonated demons, I will continue to drink tea on a more consistent basis. There are thousands of delicious flavors out there, so I am optimistic that I will maintain my enthusiasm for tea throughout the year.
Another area in which I want to improve is exercise. I have tried in the past, but only allowed myself the “opportunity” to run. I put quotes around opportunity because the truth is that I absolutely loathe running. I find it to be boring, painful, boring, lonely, and, well, boring. I do know that an increased heart rate is very good for me, but I’ve always struggled with running.
This year, instead of putting myself through the torture of running, I am determined to engage in activities that are good for me and that I enjoy. I am no Serena Williams, but I do have fun while playing tennis. Plus, being the outgoing people person that I am, I’ll never not have company while getting in shape. I look forward to playing tennis at least twice a week in 2016.
One final piece to my self-improvement puzzle is the reduction of stress. Being stressed out all the time is negative in so many ways, including health and relationship-wise. But rather than yelling at myself to “NOT BE STRESSED!” (how often does that work?), I am actively pursuing environments that lead to calm, comfort, and the removal of anxiety. This doesn’t necessarily mean beachfront vacations – although I am open to that. But it does mean that I will put myself in settings that bring me peace.
Off the top of my head, I plan to spend more time inside at bookstores and museums and outside at lakes and mountains. I imagine that some more time spent staring at the stars can only help distract from the maddening events of everyday life.
I am excited at the prospects of my new positive approach to making a better me. 2016 is already off to a great start, and I predict these steps will make it even better.
What positive things are you determined to do this year?
The Music Mom: Eileen Carey 