The new year is upon us, and my question to you is, what is your resolution? A lot of people do not like resolutions or cannot keep them, but I think we should all at least think about it. Self improvement is always good and this is a great time to form a new habit, set a goal, or live a healthier lifestyle. Saying this, it is also important to stress what kind of resolutions to make. They should be S.M.A.R.T. goals, meaning:

  • Specific. Don’t just say “Run more.” Instead, decide a date to enter a 5K and go for it.
  • Measurable. Instead of “lose weight”, say “lose 5 pounds.”
  • Achievable. Nobody is perfect, and you should not try to achieve the unachievable for your resolution.
  • Realistic. This is self-explanatory…don’t resolve to go to space in 2009. It won’t happen.
  • Timely. Give deadlines for your goals if the goal allows a time frame. For example, say you want to form a certain habit by March 1st or something.

Now for my resolutions-

Drink more water-I have a 1 Liter water container, and I plan to drink at least 2 of these a day of water. I have already been drinking at least 2 Liters of water per day, but I want to continue throughout the year. Water is very good for you and 2 liters is a good amount to drink to stay perfectly hydrated and healthy.

Be more mindful-I have been practicing Zazen and I would like to continue my habit of practicing meditation for at least 10 minutes a day, maybe while I drink my tea (which I have been drinking a lot of over winter break). I will do this until at least February to see if I’m really still seeing benefits.

Get stronger- By February 21st, I hope to be able to do 100 consecutive pushups. I have a very specific workout plan (courtesy of hundredpushups.com) and the date I chose gives me an extra 2 weeks in case I need to redo a week somtime. 8 weeks instead of 6 weeks is still fine I think.

onehundredpushups

Also, I have been running, but since I will be “forced” to run by AFROTC, and enjoy it, I don’t think it is a good example of a new year resolution.

So there you have it, my new resolutions. I am always looking to better myself but this is a good time to take on a few goals :)

So, friends, what are your resolutions?

~Cheers

Sean Kelly

follow me on twitter -> twitter.com/srkelly

Oh, and please don’t reply “1280 x 1024″ :)