New Years Resolutions

A Happier New Year

It’s almost New Years and everyone knows that people rarely keep their New Years resolutions, I know I rarely do. I’ve been giving this some thought…

Dreaming the Years Away

New Years Resolutions are often overly optimistic (I’m going to go to the gym. Every. Single. Day.) and usually very serious (in other words, not very fun).

The New Years Resolution Rut

Some people are in a rut- they make the same resolution (and then break it) every year.

Put the Happy Back Into The New  Year

Here at Driving and Dining I propose that we all put the Happy back into the New Year- by making the decision to only make resolutions that meet the following criteria.

I Solemnly Declare That My New Years Resolution(s) will:

• Be Fun
• Be Easy
• Earn Me Some Good Karma

Top 5 New Year Resolutions

Here are my top 5 New Years Resolutions. They all meet the above criteria and, while they sound a little serious, each of them are a lot of fun.

5. Stop Watching Reality TV

There are nights where it seems like there are only Reality TV shows running on every channel. Are they really that good? Are they even real? Why not go make your own exciting reality instead? There are lots of free outdoor activities to entice a Survivor fan off the couch. Or, if you are more into the game’s strategy – chess or Ultimate might be an interesting alternative. Fans of The Amazing Race might want to check out letterboxing, which is relatively inexpensive yet amazing at the same time. If you like American Idol, America’s Got Talent, or Dancing With The Stars you could just as easily turn off the TV and practice your own singing or dancing skills (or accordion playing or whatever).

I have an ulterior motive for this resolution because I really, really don’t like Reality TV (have you noticed?). If less people watched the shows, they would make less of them. I say, bring back the sitcom. Bring back the detective shows. In some cases, like How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory, and The Good Guys, this is already happening – but there is room for more.

4. Support Neighborhood Business

Mom and Pop stores across the country are in trouble and you can help by making the decision to spend your money at their stores. Whether it’s a corner store, a restaurant, or a concession stand- if you shop at the businesses close to your house rather than a big box outlet it will improve your neighborhood in many ways. Getting to know your neighbors and some good karma are just bonuses.

3. Participate in The Community

Participating in community events and activities is a fun and rewarding way to spend your free time. Many events are also free, or you can get free access by volunteering. Consider neighborhood churches and cultural groups as well as community centers and parks – many hold annual events that are fun. They also may sell unique handcrafted or locally grown products and interesting (and tasty) ethnic concession foods.

2. Grow a Garden

Food tastes better when you grow it yourself. Also, it feels good to grow stuff. You might also save some money, plus eat healthier – it’s win, win. If you are looking for inspiration (and tasty treats), visit a farmer’s market (there are some that are open year round, check out localharvest.org for listings).

1. Stop Buying Stuff, Start Investing in Experiences

Spend your money on a good meal or a fun outing – like a day at an amusement park or a museum, whatever suits you. Make a resolution to spend 2011 collecting memories and experiences instead of stuff.

Happy New Year!

Well, those are my new years resolutions for 2011. Are you making any resolutions this year that meet this criteria? (Fun, Easy, Good Karma.) If so, please share them below.