The Resolution

An estimated 188 million adult Americans think this year will be the year for change, and will make New Year’s resolutions, but unfortunately fewer than 10% actually achieve their goal. Most will make the usual commitments to lose a few pounds, exercise more, or eat better.  However, by mid-year, half have abandoned their resolutions.  Perhaps it’s because we pick the wrong resolutions, make the wrong commitments.  Maybe we need to reexamine our goals and commit to smaller things, like take more walks, are do something that benefits someone besides ourselves.  Perhaps we should say a kind word to another or check in on a neighbor.  Perhaps what is missing with our commitments is that while losing a few pounds may be an accomplishment, it does not change our heart.  Perhaps it doesn’t even change the way we feel about ourselves.  Perhaps it’s simpler than that.  When we do things for others, we get more in return.  And maybe, just maybe, we should start picking goals that change the heart.