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| English: Bratislava; New Year 2005; FireWorks (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
Many people keep telling statements such as "2014 is MY year!" or "New year, new me!". While it all sounds optimistic, it's very difficult to follow through new year resolutions if they're not realistic. That is why I have come up with a 'less and more' list since old habits die hard. We will have a harder time removing things we don't like in ourselves if we go sudden cold turkey. Gradual, step by step change is key. Here is my "Less and More" resolution this 2014:
1. LESS JUNK FOOD, MORE HEALTHY FOOD
Junk food isn't cool anymore. Yes, more and more people are becoming health-conscious nowadays and are taking measures to maintain a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. Junk the junk food, that's why they're called junk in the first place. Now is the time to set realistic goals in your diet. You can either opt to minimize junk food (say, half a bag of chips or a bar of chocolates and share it to a friend), or choose healthier alternatives (raw veggies, nuts). This way, you can lose weight and minimize your chances of getting chronic diseases from an unhealthy diet.
2. LESS SOCIAL MEDIA, MORE ACTUAL CONVERSATIONS
Social media seemed to have trumped over our social lives and replaced actual meetups and conversations. This shouldn't be the case unless you want to be that guy who has 5000 Facebook friends who don't know him personally, or has 1.2 million followers on Twitter but is socially awkward in real life. Invest in actual conversations and relationships. Host a party, or have coffee with that long-time friend your haven't seen in years.
3. LESS SPENDING, MORE SAVING
Our consumerist culture subtly shows us that the people who are happier spend their money on material things. Though it's not really true that money can't buy you happiness, and money is a big factor in overall life satisfaction, I dare you to commit this year in saving money. Save money not just for you but for causes that you care about. Remember that blessings are given to us so we can share. Start saving small amounts daily, cut on unnecessary expenses (e.g. saving on electricity, impulse shopping) and make profit from things that you don't use anymore (e.g. garage sale or sell them online).
4. LESS COMPLAINTS, MORE GRATITUDE
It's too common for us to point out the things we don't want in our present status such as our health, finances, work, and the people we're with. Don't you notice that the more we complain, the more that we feel an overall sense of negativity in ourselves? Let 2014 be a year of gratitude for you. Instead of complaining on things you don't have, be thankful for the things you actually have. Write them down, and you'll be surprised that you have a lot to be thankful for.
5. LESS LAZINESS, MORE MOTIVATION
Our lives are comprised of time. Laziness wastes our time and consequently wastes our life. Gradually lessen your laziness by achieving the mindset that you may not have tomorrow and you should make the best of today, or even right now. If you can't find motivation within yourself, find motivation from a friend or ask God for motivation. You will be amazed with the things you can achieve just by lessening your procrastination and doing what the Nike quote says: "Just do it".
6. LESS NEGATIVITY, MORE POSITIVITY
Emotions and moods are powerful determiners of our decision-making. It is unhealthy to dwell on negative emotions such as anxiety, fear or anger towards something or someone. While it's also unhealthy to numb yourself of these emotions, it is best for us to feel it, let it out (in appropriate means), and let it go. Focus on positive things in your life, and use that inspiration to see your problems and opportunities of growth and change.
7. LESS HATE, MORE LOVE
Similar to negativity, hate brings about dissatisfaction in our relationships with people. The more we choose to dwell on hate or bitterness, the more we have a difficult time seeing love in other people and in ourselves. If you have two options, always choose to love. Always choose to forgive. Let go of any issues of hate, anger, bitterness towards people and learn to show love despite others' offenses.
8. LESS OF ME, MORE OF GOD
Focusing too much on ourselves, our own pursuits and interests brings about pride in our lives. Too much pride can make us selfish and destroys our relationship with people and with God. As C.S. Lewis states it:
"A proud man is always looking down on things and people; and, of course, as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is above you."
Focus less on yourself and focus more on what God wants in your life. Focus less on material pursuits and seek Him above everything else because if you believe that He is God, He will want the best for you in all aspects of your life, whether it's your family, relationships, career or finances. 2014 is your year to dedicate, or rededicate your life to Him.
Happy new year everyone! God bless!
Love,
Geline
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