set goalsWe expect certain things every New Year: the Ball Drop in Time Square, the Rose Bowl, a countdown to midnight, and resolutions. For 24 hours we will itemize flaws and bad habits, dreams and ambitions. Lists will include starting new careers, being more involved in our communities, getting better grades and (of course) improving our health.

Evaluating all that happened in 2009 is exhausting. Then consider that 50% of people believe they will accomplish resolutions, but only 12% actually see it through. That’s why, as your doctor and resource for information about recovery and health, we’ve decided that we should help you plan for a healthier 2010.

Here are 10 resolutions for your consideration.

10. Devote more time to active hobbies. Health is about balance. A healthy life is equal parts work and play. That’s why our #10 resolution for a healthier 2010 is devoting time to an active hobby. Rediscover old hobbies or seek new interests, it doesn’t matter. Just make sure to devote time to activities that are fulfilling for you.

“Put good in, get good out.”

9. Stop smoking. Smoking leads to cancer, heart disease, and other health problems according to the CDC. Smoking also impairs endurance, making it harder to lead an active life.

8. Define fitness goals. The best way to make a fitness goal is to be specific. Vague goals are easily ignored. Decide early on what fitness success is, how often you will exercise, what your goals are, and the steps to achieve the goals. Side effects of improved fitness include more energy and better moods. Always keep in mind that fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all; get a physical before you start any workout routines.

7. Face a fear. Fear can have a serious impact on quality of life. The most effective way to overcome fear is to face it. Open up to a friend, family member, therapist, or doctor about the thing that scares you. If you’ve suffered an injury, fear (the fear of re-injury for example) can cause problems during recovery. Tell your doctor or physical therapist about anxieties or concerns.

6. Reduce stress. Hobbies, fitness, and fearlessness are part of a bigger picture. Each resolution is meant to remove the causes of stress. Hobbies give you downtime, fitness improves energy and outlook, and facing fears removes obstacles. A big contributor to an unhealthy life is stress. Resolve to discover the real causes and get to the root of the problem.

5. Eat healthier. I can sum this up with: put good in, get good out.

4. Help someone else. Ever heard “it’s the little things that matter?” It’s definitely true. A major obstacle to volunteering is the belief that you can’t have an impact. But doing little things for someone that needs help can improve your self-image. Things get busy, life gets complicated. Helping others gives you a special kind of satisfaction.

3. Spend more time with family and friends. Make time to spend with family or friends. Have at least one family dinner once a week and involve every family member in the food preparation or let someone pick the menu each month. Two times a month, have a game night with friends alternating who chooses the game. If you’ve started an active hobby (see resolution #10), see if anyone else is interested in the same activity.

1 & 2. Make an appointment with your doctor, and encourage your friends to do the same. This resolution is so important it gets two places for emphasis. The number of appointments you make depends on factors like age, gender, and health history. Ask your doctor what kind of check-ups he or she can provide. Your doctor should be able to make referrals if you can’t get the kind of check-up you need. Here’s a check list of things to ask about:

  • Blood pressure check-up
  • Blood cholesterol level exam
  • A physical exam
  • Mammogram (once a year for women over 40)
  • Prostate exam (once a year for men over 50)
If you’re at risk for certain diseases or if you just have a health concern you should ask about more frequent appointments. Your doctor can make recommendations.
Let us hear your resolutions in the comments. You could also write a blog and post it to share your experience.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!