Realizations

     The biggest scam of the season in my mind isn't invalid gift cards or fake charities.  Yet, every single year on December 31st, we dupe ourselves into engaging in this tradition, ultimately lying to ourselves and wondering why we make these empty promises.

     The New Year's Resolution.

     Common on many lists:  lose weight, be more active, budget wisely, even save some money, volunteer, contact friends/family more often, relax more, quit smoking, quit drinking, travel more. You get the picture.

     Some of us even write this stuff down to make it official.  Then, we imbibe in a little too much champagne and leftover holiday cookies and somehow lose our resolve. And the list.

     This year, I resolve---no wait, I propose---that we toss this antiquated and ineffective tradition out the window like a piece of gum chewed way too long. Stop the madness. Stop the lies.  We deserve better than that.

    However, when getting rid of a bad habit, it's a good idea to replace it with a better one.

    Enter the New Year's Realization.

    Let me give you some prime examples:

    Resolution:  I will lose weight.
    Realization:  I realize that I am overweight because I consume too many calories. To change that, I will limit my portion sizes and cut out mindless snacking.

     Resolution: I will exercise more.
    Realization:  Although I would love to take up running again, I realize that the arthritis in my feet will prevent me from doing so. I will change my mindset and choose activities like the elliptical trainer (it's kind of like running), strength training, shorter walks, and water exercise. 

     Realizations don't allow for excuses or deception. But, they do require lots of self-reflection and honesty.

     That is how I want to start and end 2016.

     Happy New Year!

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