Tips to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions

It’s that time of year again. Time to fill up on turkey, sugar cookies, egg nog, and all those other holiday treats. And then time to reflect on the upcoming New Year and those dreaded resolutions. If you’re like me, you may have trouble keeping up with your New Year’s resolutions. But, fear not, here are some common resolutions and tips on how to keep them in 2016.

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Living a healthier lifestyle

I often tell myself that I should eat healthier and exercise more. But, with my sweet tooth, love of eating out, and disdain for the gym, these haven’t always been easy feats — until now.

Recently, I tried out the Yonanas Elite frozen dessert maker, an easy-to-use machine that makes creamy, frozen-yogurt-like dessert out of fruit. Simply toss frozen fruit like bananas, strawberries, and mangoes into the chute and out comes a delicious dessert with no added sugar, dairy, or preservatives. The sorbet-like dessert will satisfy your sweet tooth, and make you forget about those leftover Christmas cookies Santa didn’t eat.

If you loathe the gym like me, there are plenty of options for exercising at home, including the STOTT PILATES flex-band exerciser and PürAthletics Dome Exerciser. Classes like Zumba, yoga, and boot camp are also excellent ways to stay motivated and healthy.

Learning a new skill

I’m a writer. But I’m envious of the many other talents my friends, family, and colleagues have. That’s why I’m vowing to learn a new skill or take on another hobby next year. I may take a cue from those around me and learn how to play a musical instrument, snap better photos, or bake from scratch.

I’ve never been very musical, but always wanted to learn how to play something.  This Casio keyboard is right up my alley. It features light-up keys and a lesson function, making it perfect for beginners like me.

If you’re an amateur photographer transitioning from your point-and-shoot or smartphone to something more professional, the Canon Rebel T5 DSLR and Sony A5000 mirrorless camera are solid, wallet-friendly choices. The Rebel T5 is a great entry-level DSLR with features like an 18MP sensor, full manual mode, and a pop-up flash. The A5000 is a lightweight alternative to a DSLR, offering a 20.1MP sensor, tiltable LCD screen, and built-in WiFi.

And for aspiring bakers? A KitchenAid mixer is a no-brainer. (In fact, I’ve already picked up the KitchenAid hand mixer in my quest to start baking.)

Changing priorities

Are you a workaholic? Is stress getting you down? Then maybe it’s time to shift your priorities in the New Year. Spend more time with family, take some time out for yourself, and plan a vacation.

If quality family time is hard to come by, then schedule regular board game nights with your sweetie or the kids. Classics like Scrabble, Monopoly, or Hungry Hungry Hippos are always winners, while newer games like The Enchanted Tower or Super Mario Card Game may become fresh favourites.

If you always put others ahead of yourself, then treat yourself to some R&R with an at-home massage from the Obusforme kneading Shiatsu cushion. Or book monthly massages at your favourite spa. Hey, you deserve it.

And if work is stressing you out, go on vacation and shut off your brain. Pack your things in the Swiss Gear Victorious 24″ luggage and jet-set off to your dream destination. Make sure to book time off work in advance, so you won’t have any excuses for not taking a holiday next year.

When making resolutions, it’s important to set realistic goals, write down a rough plan, and keep track of how you’re doing. Share your resolutions with friends and family, so they can be your cheerleaders. But, remember this: no matter what resolutions you set, don’t be too hard on yourself if you break them.