What are you going to leave behind?

Every year about this time, people start thinking about New Year's resolutions.  There are all kinds of resolutions and ways to go about it. So if you're trying to decide if, or what type, of resolution to make, here are some ideas that might be helpful. 
 
Many people contemplate decisions to live healthier, lose weight, spend more time with family and friends, or shop less and save more.  But according to a recent survey, the top New Years resolution in the US this year is to “Enjoy life to the fullest”.   (You can see the statistics in the chart above).
 
The survey was limited to the choices shown, which are fairly broad categories -- for example, "live a healthier lifestyle" could mean losing weight, quitting smoking and/or getting regular exercise. "Enjoy life to the fullest" could mean smiling more, appreciating what you have -- or the pursuit of material pleasures.   
 
If the survey had offered an open ended option, they might have received  responses such as: 

• Reading  more books
• Exploring new authors
• Write every day (guess who that one came from)
• Vowing to find three things to be thankful for every day
• Learning something new
• Volunteering, or increasing volunteer efforts
• Meeting new people (Joining new book clubs!)

                                                                           Do you see a trend in this list?  :)

Still not seeing one that fits? How about creating your resolutions from a reverse perspective -- deciding what you'd like to leave behind in 2015:

This could include:

• Negative memories 
• People you want to stop thinking or talking  about
• Old resentments
• Work responsibilities you'd like to trade 
• Bad habits 
• The cable box (or less TV)

Are you going to make a New Year's resolution?  Got a suggestion for the list?  
Please add your comments.  

And Best Wishes for a Happy New Year!  
 

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