Well, it’s nearing the end of January, and how are resolutions coming along? According to a study conducted by the University of Scranton, just 8 percent of people achieve their New Year’s goals, while around 80 percent fail to keep their New Year’s resolutions, says US clinical psychologist Joseph Luciani. The best of intentions again put by the wayside.
It will soon be that time, when you’ll sit back and ask yourself how you are going to improve yourself in the coming year. As in most years, you know this introspection will occur, but more importantly, will you succeed? “Easier said than done” is all too often the result of all good intentions and resolve. But now, as you age, these resolutions become more IMPORTANT. These resolutions can seriously improve your life through better health, mental sharpness, renewed relationships or maybe your financial condition. Losing that sticky five pounds may lower your blood pressure and help stave off diabetes, while focusing on mental sharpness by completing that extra Sudoku or learning a new subject, will keep your interests peaked and your inquisitiveness alive.
I focus on the ONE THING that I consider the most important. It is the ONE request that I would like most to see achieved. The ONE THING approach greatly simplifies the effort, puts you in the proper mindset, and focuses your energies.
You receive emails, mailings, continual TV ads, infomercials, and friends telling you, “Stay Healthy”. And as we age, this becomes more important, but it also becomes more challenging. But like anything else, getting past the “Nah” factor and starting and continuing an exercise program is the first step. There are many places you can find info on exercise programs; WebMD, Mayo, etc., but you should always start with your doctor, who knows your health history and can recommend a program.
While the tangible component of your legacy is something that can be touched and be a visible reminder of you, it will indelibly bring up memories. That special trip; that special saying; that attitude; that laugh. And, since we’re human, there may be some negatives. But on balance, positive. So, your intangible legacy will be a combination of experiences people had with you, discussions you have had, lessons you provided, but most of all, how you approached situations, friendships, adversity, etc., which didn’t come with a playbook, but rather your individual manner of handling various circumstances. This is what will live on in memories.