Planning For 2016

Soon another year will be over and a new one will begin. I enjoy planning for the year ahead but I have learnt to make resolutions realistic. I also recognise the importance of including fun, social and relaxing activities with my resolutions.


I feel it is good to set a few goals and plan the steps to achieving them. However, it is important not to burden yourself with too many goals. Another consideration is to make the goals achievable, for you, at this point in time.

Some people aim big, aim high and like to push themselves really hard. Perhaps this is okay for a while but I think at some stage they need to relax their aims somewhat. I guess, different people can handle different amounts of pressure. Maybe the important thing is to know yourself and take notice of any warning signs that you are pushing yourself too hard.

Health issues including frequent headaches, insomnia, indigestion and high blood pressure can be indicators of a high level of stress. These warning signs shouldn't be ignored. Adopting relaxation techniques and making an appointment with your health professional are a good idea.

John Wanamaker said, 'People who cannot find time for recreation are obliged sooner or later to find time for illness.' Who is this John Wanamaker? I thought he might be currently involved in some medical field but I was wrong. He was an American religious leader who was also involved in politics and trading and he lived from 1838 to 1922. I was surprised he lived so many years ago. It looks like some people were aware of the importance of taking a break from work even back in the nineteenth century, a time we consider less hectic.

It seems a good idea to include some goals for looking after our health when we make resolutions. Many health conscious people include things like exercising more and losing weight (or putting it on for the underweight).

Have you thought of making a resolution to spend more time with family and friends? What about a goal to make new friends? If your circle of pals is small or you find some you spend time with are not positive perhaps this would benefit your health.

Trying new fun activities can be good for your health. Relaxing pastimes can also be beneficial. If your response is that you haven't got time to spend on activities which aren't 'productive' perhaps you need to chill out more.

Don't feel guilty about 'wasting time' now and then. British philosopher, essayist and social critic Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) said, 'The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.'

Yes, it can be helpful to make some resolutions but I feel they shouldn't be a burden and shouldn't make you feel a failure because they are unattainable. I think it is beneficial to your health and well-being to aim at getting balance in your life by including social and fun goals. Have a happy new year,


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