Tired of the typical NYE resolutions to lose weight, get fit, or get out of credit card debt? Here are five fresh alternatives to be a better you in 2014 without leaving Frisco, or changing your habits… too much!
1. Spend time. Sometimes all you need is a new perspective… a new point of view that can be easily had with a Frisco stay-cation. After all the in-laws and out-laws have left, how about a little pampering? Gather the whole family up, vacate the house in which you’ve been too cooped up, and check out of the day-to-day by checking in to a friendly hotel. Call it a family “off site” and you’ll be a hero.
2. Give back. Who says a New Year’s resolution has to be about what’s wrong with you, and how you should change? Honor something bigger than yourself with a financial or time commitment to a cause you care about. Most non-profit organizations will allow you to pledge a monthly donation for a one-year term. A side benefit: research shows that donating money boosts happiness and self-image–the perfect antidote to the self-critical resolution.
3. Be present. If the sit-down-together family dinner has become a stand-over-the-sink situation, it’s time to reconnect. No better place to regroup and recharge than over a warm and hearty family meal. Or, take the opposite approach and hit the FAC for a family basketball, volleyball, or racquetball game. Either way, the goal is to make new memories together, and maybe establish a new meal-time or athletic habit as a family. Research shows that one of the best predictors of emotional health is the ability to anticipate and savor future pleasures.
4. Learn more. Discover more about the place where you live! City Hall 101 is a free program, designed to give citizens a behind-the-scenes look at how Frisco city hall and other municipal facilities operate. The 15-week program will take place on Monday evenings, when participants will ‘graduate’ from this citizens’ academy with a deeper knowledge of all aspects of what it takes to keep Frisco growing.
5. Be grateful. Make a list of what you are grateful for in your life. Sure, New Year’s is a great time to think about what you’d like to change, but you’ll be much happier if you first think about everything you’re grateful for. In fact, if you make a gratitude list first, you might be surprised how it shapes your wish list for 2014. You’ll have a clearer sense of what matters most to you, and a better vision of what you want the future to look like.
