Why do we set resolutions? Is it the appeal of the tabula rasa, the blank slate of a new year? A perceived opportunity to start fresh? Whatever the case, carving out time in your life to write down what you want to accomplish offers up immediate benefits. Neuroscience explains why we need to write down our goals if we actually want to achieve them. In fact, people who vividly imagine or describe their goals are anywhere from 1.2 to 1.4 more times likely to succeed at keeping them than those who don’t. Making and keeping goals can make us feel happier and more confident, and who wouldn’t like some more of that?

 

The Huffington Post ran a great piece of happiness, and the major takeaways are worth noting as we look back on 2019 and look forward to forging a better 2020. We won’t list all twenty, but here are a few to get you inspired in the last hours of 2019.

 

  • Spend 10 minutes a day outside
  • Say nice things about yourself
  • Find a physical activity you love
  • Invest in a quality relationship
  • Cut back on your social media use
  • Keep a gratitude journal

 

As for gratitude, all of us at PlanHero™ are humbled and thankful for each and every one of you who supports our mission to make volunteering and organizing easier. For those who follow us on Instagram, we were particularly inspired by the 4-H motto when it comes to setting resolutions. The Kentucky 4-H SET (Science, Engineering, and Technology) had an idea that we believe resonates with all of us who make (and try to keep!) resolutions. The suggestion? Build your New Year’s resolutions with the 4-H Pledge and get a jumpstart on your vision for 2020. Whether you prefer to make annual resolutions or just set periodic goals throughout the year, this is a positive place to start.

 

 

I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking,

  • Learn a new skill
  • Organize your schedule (with PlanHero, of course!)
  • Take a challenging class
  • Read one book a week

my HEART to greater loyalty,

  • Plan a weekly family game night
  • Make family dinner a priority
  • Set time aside to visit friends and family each month

my HANDS to larger service,

  • Hold a food drive
  • Plan a social event at a nursing/assisted living home
  • Volunteer at a pet shelter

and my HEALTH to better living for my club, my community, my country, and my world.

  • Exercise 5 days a week
  • Drink 64 oz. of water each day
  • Buy a new fresh vegetable or fruit each week to try