Fresh Habits for the New Year
Have you noticed that many New Year's resolutions sound a little bit like backhanded compliments? "Lose fifteen pounds." "Quit smoking." "Get Organized." There's no way to word them without insinuating that something in your life has gone awry.
Don't get me wrong, though. Tending to your health and managing life effectively are important--even critical. But I wonder whether the very idea of turning these goals into "resolutions" isn't, in and of itself, permission not to accomplish them.
What if, instead of adopting a major life change for the new year, you worked at incorporating a simple habit aimed at improving your life?
What if you:
- Applied the acronym "THINK" before you speak, asking yourself whether what you are about to say is really True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind?
- Worked at greeting your kids every time one of you walks in the door, and spent even just five to ten minutes in one-on-one conversation?
- Scheduled at least one "night off" per month, when you either hire a sitter and go out, or force yourself to do nothing after the kids are in bed?
- Practiced seeing disagreements--whether they be with your parents, your kids, or your ex--from the other person's point of view?
- Looked for opportunities to share your experience and wisdom with others in need of support?
Little changes such as these can have a huge impact on how connected you feel to those around you, and how deeply you enjoy the life you've built, despite its inherent challenges.
So how about it? What changes are you looking for in the new year? And are they official "resolutions," or more like fresh habits you're going to adopt? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment here on the blog.
Related:
- 7 Habits of Highly Successful Single Parents
- 31 Realistic Parenting Resolutions
- Resolutions for Kids
This blog post is part of the All About Parenting Blog Carnival for December, 2008, hosted by Denise Witmer, About.com's Guide to Parenting Teens.
If this post was helpful to you:
Comments
These are wonderful ideas. I definitely find that I feel sick to my stomach after a whole day of multitasking. It’s much better to spend 5 minutes really focusing on each family member than trying to cook, clean out backpacks, and listen to their stories about the day at the same time.
I like how you’ve given us small, manageable strategies that have great potential for improving our family relationships.
I love your suggestion for seeing things from the other person’s point of view. So many family conflicts could be avoided if we would all practice this strategy.
Jennifer, I like your idea of thinking in terms of “Fresh Habits for the New Year.”
I’ve never heard of the acronym “THINK”. Thanks so much for that wonderful bit of information.
I love the thought of adopting fresh habits! My favorite suggested habit: get into a one-on-one conversation with the kids on a regular basis throughout the day.
Yes, THINK is great! I love that one.
I love, love, LOVE the “schedule one night off” idea!