If you felt anxious for the new year to begin, you weren’t alone. Last year, we endured challenges, but we also discovered new relationships, abilities, ways to connect, and surprising opportunities for pursuing a successful future through meaningful goals.
It’s times like these where focusing on self-improvement, connections with loved ones, and finding ways to contribute to our communities is most important. Experts estimate that 188.9 million Americans plan on setting a personal goal to better themselves in 2021. That’s over a 15 percent increase from last year.
“Through the experience of success and the positive emotions that accompany it, confidence and belief in our own abilities grow,” explains Elaine Houston, BSc. “Finding novel ways to utilize our skills and push our abilities increases task-relevant knowledge while enhancing self-efficacy and self-confidence.”
Experts recently identified the top New Year’s resolutions for 2020, and it’s no surprise that eating healthier and quitting bad habits are popular goals. But what about goals like volunteering more of your time or learning about your family heritage? In 2021, setting goals that introduce balance and have a lasting impact is part of the new normal.
To enhance a balanced life, here are four types of goals and suggestions to consider this year.
Goals to Nurture The Mind
Setting goals that build mental health can be life-changing. Here are some suggestions.
- Commit to reading more.
- Learn a new hobby.
- Practice forgiveness.
- Learn a second language.
Goals to Improve Physical Health
Lakewood Manor is surrounded by fantastic parks and outdoor facilities that make physical activity easy and fun. Why not make a goal to enjoy it daily?
- Try hydrotherapy.
- Commit to sanitizing your home weekly.
- Drink more water.
- Add more plant-based meals to your diet weekly.
Goals to Improve Your Social Well-Being
“The socially well person has a network of support based on interdependence, mutual trust, respect and has developed a sensitivity and awareness towards the feelings of others,” says Karen Shopoff Rooff, a wellness expert. Here are some suggestions to improve social wellness.
- Call a family member every week. No texting allowed.
- Volunteer.
- Write in a personal journey every day.
- Practice better listening skills.
Set Specific Financial Goals
“A financial goal is any plan you have for your money. For example, a budget is your financial goal for this month, while investing for retirement is a long-term financial goal,” says financial expert and author Rachel Cruze. “Your goals should give you focus and keep you accountable.”
Here are some suggestions for financial goals:
- Create a monthly budget and stick to it.
- Find three free activities to do every week.
- Set up an activity-based savings schedule. (Saving for a vacation or family event.)
- Brew your own coffee or tea daily.
Studies show that around 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions fail by February. Let’s make 2021 an exception by setting goals that add meaningful balance to your life.