I received some emails on yesterday’s top 10 New Year’s Resolutions, one of which I thought included some extra resolutions that should have been included in yesterday’s post so I thought I’d post the new list here again.  Combining both sets of resolutions, I think will help many of you towards your goals.  Even if your goal is not listed here, mentally add it, or email me to add it to the list.  I, for one, think 2010 is going to be a GREAT year!  The author of this has asked to remain anonymous, so I won’t post their name here but just so you know, I did not write this… I do, however, think it’s a great list!

New Year’s Eve has always been a time for looking forward to the coming year. It’s a time to reflect on the changes we want or need to make and resolve to follow through on those changes by making resolutions! The top ten New Year resolutions are listed below:

1. Spend More Time with Family

   Recent polls show that more than 50% of Americans vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends this year.  You could integrate this into your new healthy lifestyle by asking family members to join you in going to the gym.

2. Get Fit

   Regular Exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. Studies show that is reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis.  This is possibly the oldest New Year’s Resolution in the book, yet many people still give up after just a few weeks.  Getting fit is a lifestyle, not a quick goal to achieve.  Go into this knowing it’s going to be a lifelong goal, not just a “2010 goal”.

3. Lose Weight

   Over 66 percent of American adults are considered overweight, so it is not surprising to find that weight loss is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions. Setting reasonable goals and staying focused are the two most important factors in sticking with a weight loss program.  Remember, you don’t have to lose 10, 20, 30 or however many pounds in a month.  It will take time.  Keep focused.  Even if you can lose just 2-3 pounds a week, as long as you keep that up you’re living a healthier life!

4. Quit Smoking

   If you have resolved to make this the year to stop smoking, over-the-counter nicotine replacement aids can help. Even if you’ve tried to quit before and failed, don’t let it get you down. Smokers try about four times before they quit for good.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends.  Once you quit, don’t put yourself in a position where it would be easy for you to start smoking again.  If friends ask you to go out for drinks and you know they smoke, politely decline until you’ve kicked the habit for good.

5. Enjoy Life More

   Given the hectic, stressful lifestyles of millions of Americans, it is no wonder that “enjoying life more” has become a popular resolution in recent years. It’s an important step to a happier and healthier you!  If something makes you happy, make time for it.  That could be spending more time with your kids, playing with your dog more every day, or just something as simple as going to the park and reading a book from your favorite author while enjoying the sun and the breeze.  Life is out there, you just have to live it!

6. Quit Drinking

   While many people use the New Year as an incentive to finally stop drinking, most are not able to make such a drastic change all at once. Many drinkers fail to quit cold turkey, but do much better when they taper gradually. If you want to stop drinking, there are self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous to help.  Similar to quitting smoking, avoid putting yourself in situations where you will want to drink.  The urge will pass and you can kick this additiction!

7. Get Out of Debt

   Was money a big source of stress in your life last year? Join the millions of Americans who have resolved to getting a handle on their finances.  You are not alone.  Money is important for sure, but you can’t let the lack of money get in the way of living life.  Try to eliminate things that aren’t necessary from your budget.  There are many things you can try for this.  Maybe it’s as simple as cutting the number of minutes on your cell phone plan, not eating out as much, or talking to coworkers about carpooling to help everyone save on gas.  The options are out there.  Think outside of the box and you’ll find ways to cut costs.

8. Learn Something New

   Have you vowed to make this the year to learn something new? Perhaps you are considering a career change or to learn a new language? Whether you take a course or read a book, you’ll find education to be one of the most motivating resolutions to keep.  Not to mention the fact that you could end up using your new found knowledge to your benefit.  Consider starting a side-business with your new knowledge doing something you love to bring in a little extra money each month.

9. Help Others

   Volunteering is a popular, non-selfish New Year’s resolution. There are many nonprofit organizations that could use your help!  You’d be surprised how good it will make you feel that you’ve helped someone in need!  Mental health is a very important step in achieving physical health!

10. Get  Organized

    Getting organized is on just about every New Year resolution list! Whether you want your home organized enough that you can invite someone over on a whim, or your office organized enough that you can find the stapler when you need it, getting organized will help you have a more organized life!

No matter what your New Year’s Resolutions may be, keep your head up and don’t give up. Lets all make 2010 a great year!