5 new year resolutions you can actually stick to

No one likes the feeling of failure, so here are 5 new year resolutions you can actually stick to
With Auld Lang Syne still ringing in our ears, our new year’s resolutions often end up being swept up with the streamers and party poppers. So this year, let’s get real by setting realistic resolutions that are within our reach.

1. Every other day

Numero uno resolution after quitting the ciggies has got to be getting fit and healthy, but instead of going hell for leather with an everyday-at-the-gym approach that leaves you unable to even climb the stairs, start slowly and build up. Do something active every other day. Bike ride, running, brisk walks, netball, hockey, kiss-chase or hop scotch. Anything. Just get active.

2. Don’t run a marathon

Haven’t run for years but just signed up to a marathon in a bid to get fit? Let’s think about this. Are you willing to allow training to take over your social life? Hours of lonely running in miserable cold weather? Seriously? Twenty six point two miles. 26.2 miles. However it’s written, it’s a long way. I know you really smashed the Race for Life but let’s face it – you were running 5K with 72-year-old Aunty Betty… And a marathon – 42.1km?! Why not try the Winter Run in February? 10K = doable. Far enough to require some training yet short enough to still leave you with a life.

3. Drink less

After all the parties over the festive period, giving up the booze seems like a much better option than a liver transplant. Are we right? Week one is easy to resist – a relief, even – after the full intoxication of Christmas and NYE. As the hangover lifts in week two, though, you start dreaming of vineyards in Loire Valley and you don’t really understand how you found yourself at the fridge, when the Sauvignon Blanc was opened or how it magically disappeared…. so quickly. So this year, no cold turkey. Just promise yourself to cut out booze mid-week and reduce your weekend intake. Deal?

4. Drink more

First, I tell you to drink less, and now I’m telling you to drink more – water, that is. One easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy new year’s resolution is something we simply don’t do enough, and yet the rewards are mind-blowing. It makes sense really: we’re made up of around 60 percent water so we really should try and keep it topped up. Plus, water helps with weight loss, concentration, joint and muscle health, digestion… the list goes on. I know! #liquidgold

5. Eat chocolate

Last but certainly not least – eat chocolate. Don’t put a blanket ban on the good stuff. If you try and cut it out completely it’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the world of Willy Wonka. Lindt bunnies run out in front of your car, lampposts are made of Toblerone and kids are kicking chocolate oranges around the park. STOP. All nans say ‘a little bit of what you fancy does you good,’ and who are we to argue with nans? Treat yourself to a Feel Good Friday! Yes, thank Crunchie it’s Friday. Yes, Monsieur, you really can spoil us. As long as it’s Friday.