Resolutions I've Actually Kept

So here’s my deal with resolutions.

I tend to make them 4 times per year. The January “resolutions” are usually kind of umbrella-type things I’m trying to work on (usually personal stuff). I usually reassess at the start of April, and these are things I’m working on for the end of the school year (typically work stuff). I usually make some “resolutions” for the start of summer vacation with my kids (also typically personal stuff). And again at the start of the school year - and these are also usually wide umbrella-type things (almost always work related).

Here are some January “resolutions” I’ve actually kept and really stuck to over the years. There are very few.

A few years ago I made a decision to start taking care of my skin. Specifically, my face.

I’ve been very lucky in my life to have pretty good skin. It tends to be on the dry side, and although I occasionally had blemishes as a teenager I had overall really clear skin. I attribute this to its tendency to be dry.

It started as a resolution to always remove my makeup and wash my face. I did this every single day that year, and now I’ve moved on to using all manner of skincare products to keep my face smooth and hydrated. I started with the goal of just washing and ended up with all kinds of toners, serums, and moisturizers. And daily SPF - 365 days a year.

This summer I also started using baby oil on my body (legs, arms, torso, etc) instead of body cream and it’s been a game changer.

Last year I also made a resolution to reduce my alcohol intake. Not that it was over the top before, but I didn’t want all the extra calories. It started with a dry January, which I did with the exception of a day or two when we had company. Generally speaking, although I would love a glass of wine while cooking most nights, I’ve reduced that to a glass or two on Friday and Saturday nights. I still sometimes do a weeknight glass. I don’t miss the calories. I sleep better. It’s easier to get up for an extreme early morning workout. Win Win Win.

Over the years I’ve made many resolutions. I’ve kept more than these, at least for the period between January and my next reassess in April. But these are the two things I’ve made long lasting. I try to choose one thing that is a very simple change that I can implement.

Still thinking about 2020.