Top 15 2023 Resolutions

Whether it’s dropping a few pounds, taking up a new hobby, or reading more, everyone has something they want to do differently in 2023. After talking with several local celebs, I’ve compiled a list of the top 15 resolutions for  2023.

1. Building a better budget – After the holidays have been here and gone, many folks are left with a large pile of credit card bills. If there’s one New Year’s resolution that will help you the most in the long run, it’s making a vow to save more money. Before you head back to the office in January, outline a rough budget that works for you — and make a plan for how you’ll stick to it.
2. Practice mindfulness- Anxiety can happen to anyone during any season, in all parts of life — practicing mindfulness means doing everything you can to be grateful for what you have in the moment, where you are in life, and who you are right now. Experts say committing to mindfulness can help you become a better person.
3. Drink less alcohol- You already know you don’t need to drink to have fun — so why not make this year the one you cut back and join the sober movement? Doing so can help to improve your mood, sleep, skin, and your immune system. Plus, it’ll also help you save money, booze is expensive.
4. Better sleep routines- Many issues can be traced back to a poor night’s sleep. And yet, there is so much more that we can aim to improve beyond a reasonable bedtime. Your brain actually relies on cues to regulate your internal clock, and the choices you make throughout the day can interfere with these.
5. Quit smoking- Cigarettes are so very harmful to your health, especially your lungs — but tobacco products in general really pose a serious threat. If you’ve tried before but need a bit more help, experts at the American Cancer Society outline a few tools that you can turn to this year. I kicked the habit just over 10 years ago!
6. Eat more veggies- Whether you’re working on weight management or towards a balanced diet, vegetables are your friends. Fiber-rich vegetables are especially crucial for healthy hearts and strong veins.
7. Schedule health screenings- As I get older, and am not as young as I used to be, this is more important. Open your calendar app or planner and make your appointments for the year in one sitting — not only will you get the nuisance over with, but exams will be less likely to get squeezed out as life gets bonkers. Start with your primary care provider, and ask which screenings (ie, mammogram, colonoscopy, etc.) you’re due for. Get those dates penciled in and then move on to the dentist’s office and head over to your ophthalmologist, too.
8. Get a plant- Swing by the local greenhouse, plant store, or Lowes. Just the presence of indoor plants can lower stress levels. Research shows, and one study found, that actively caring for plants calms your nervous system and lowers blood pressure. And when people work near plants, they report greater concentration, satisfaction, and air quality.
9. Take the stairs- Take 10 minutes to run up the stairs in your office or home. A recent study found that tired people who climbed stairs for 10 minutes got a bigger energy boost than those who had the caffeine of a can of soda or half a cup of coffee. And another plus, it burns calories too!
10. Plan a vacation- A recent study found that those who took a vacation at least twice a year have a lower heart attack risk than those who don’t. Researchers have found that even thinking about and planning an upcoming trip can boost happiness for weeks.
11. Volunteer- Oh my goodness, this one does the most of your soul. Research shows that helping others regularly can lead to less stress and lower blood pressure. Get involved with your local food shelter, church, and other non-profit organizations.
12. Try a new diet- Getting healthier is something we all need to do. What we put in our bodies is so important. There are so many diet programs for you to explore, with the best options emphasizing more wholesome plates packed with fiber, essential nutrients, and plenty of greens. While they’re not perfect for everyone, Keto diets have become majorly popular for those wishing to shed a few pounds, and fast. Be sure to consult your doctor before making any major changes. 
13. Upcycle your closet- You know that sweater you haven’t worn in a few years? What about those jeans that won’t fit until you lose a few pounds? Clear that closet and take unworn items to Goodwill or the Lutheran Center. Less clutter will make you feel better and keeping unworn items, helps no one.
14. Invest in a skincare routine- Recently I realized that I have gotten a few dry patches on my face and some wrinkles have appeared, too. I have found that a daily routine to allow myself some time to use products that really replenish my skin, not weigh it down, has helped.
15. Play upbeat music- If you see me jamming in my car, mind your own business. Blasting happy tunes can work loads of wonders, including reducing pain during exercise, elevating mood, and lowering stress. Recently it’s been loud Christmas music I’m bumping to, but the new year brings new music to keep it light and fast.

That’s it, the top 15 New Year’s Resolutions, according to a few local folks. What’s on your list of things to do differently in the coming New Year? Are you dropping some old habits and picking up new ones? Comment below and let us know.