By Sabah Kochhar:
Here are 10 new year resolutions to consider this year, if you haven’t already. The year has just begun and you can start off with the ones below:
1] Try a New Hobby
For all those couch-potatoes sitting there, this one’s the most common, but also one of the toughest to follow! This New Year, promise yourself to try something new and exciting, and try challenging yourself by picking up a creative activity like pottery, rose-planting, stain-glass painting and whatnot! Also try experimenting with your current hobbies, and spend some quality time.
2] Learn a Foreign Language
I’m sure all of us must be speaking at least 2 languages, but I’d recommend something more! Look beyond the staid French, German and Spanish. A language like Mandarin Chinese, spoken by more than half the world’s population, is truly an asset for the young professionals hoping to create his impact in this global world. Even languages like Greek and Latin are worth a try, as they enrich and help educate one on history and how many things have evolved in the world.
3] Volunteer/ Donate
This one’s for the feel-good factor, and truly helps make a change to those less fortunate. Volunteering at an NGO, shelter, orphanage etc, also has the added benefit of improving your C.V.!
And really, it’s always good to lend a helping hand to others. Even opting to teach your maids’ children is a great idea. Try to be creative in what ways you can make a difference.
4] Music and The Performing Arts
Ever noticed how that guitarist friend of yours seems to get all the attention when he plays and croons during an impromptu occasion with friends? Well, why not try something similar for yourself too? It’s always fun to learn a new instrument or a dance form, or even go for dramatics classes. Keep in mind though, that one should pick up what he’d like to learn, not what the rest of the world is doing! The guitar or salsa dance lessons might seem popular with your friends, but might not be the right fit for you. So go ahead and find your niche!
5] Reinvent your Wardrobe
No, this doesn’t mean that you completely throw out all your existing pieces and then splurge on new clothes! However, if you’re the kind who wears lots of black, try switching in colours more often. Or vice-versa. What I mean is, try spicing or jazzing up your usual style a bit. Keep a few basic pieces and mix-and-match, experiment with yourself.
6] Fight for Fitness!
We all vow to lead healthier lifestyles or lose weight, as resolutions for the year. But it’s high-time we start implementing this. Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis. So, what are you waiting for? Hit the Exerciserig, now!
7] Stop the Procrastination
Stop procrastinating. How much time have you wasted in your life procrastinating? There’s so much to do, yet so little time. Start 2012 on a good note by cutting down on the daydreaming and procrastination habits, and do everything you’ve been putting off.
8] Travel to New Places
Tired of sitting in that cramped up little office? You deserve a break. It’s time to get out and experience different parts of the world, and learn about different cultures, try new cuisines, shop for exciting things, and well, simply have an unforgettable time! Also included in this category is trying out thrilling new adventure sports or going on a road trip to visit friends. Take a cue from movies like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and head out for some fun!
9] Spend More Time With Family and Close Ones
Spending time with the family gives a person a chance to know each other, share feelings with each other, share joy and sorrow. This is indeed an important resolution that will give you fulfilment in life.
10] Get Less Stressed
In today’s fast-paced times, this one is a problem we all face. But, it’s time to cut down on our stress levels this year. Meditation is a great tool one can implement. Also, it’s okay to goof-up a little, sometimes. Relax and learn to take things easy.