Happy New Year!

As 2016 has begun, you may already have your list of New Year’s resolutions and ready to go. Just hold off a second – if you still have your 2015 list, please take a look to see how well you did, what’s done and what’s new.

Congratulations for your 2015 goals achieved. For under achieved items, to find out the causes/reasons will help you for 2016 goal setting.

As most people are interested in three things - health, wealth, and happiness, the short list below may cover a common scope. You will finish with your personal touch and commitment.

Health

  • Personal fitness regimen
  • Individual weight management
  • Reduce health risks (i.e., stress, smoking, alcohol, high fat/salt/sugar diet)
  • Maintain a regular daily life routine (including sufficient sleep hours and eat healthy)

Wealth

  • Set specific financial target with a plan
  • Define investment strategy
  • Ways to cut cost and saving money

Happiness

  • Social interactions/building healthy relationships
  • Giving - money, goods, or time (volunteering) to help others in needs
  • Learning new knowledge and skills
  • Travel plans
Tips:
  • Set goals specific and measurable; be realistic and do not commit too much/too fast
  • Keep it real; schedule your calendar for to do list and the time to do it
  • Start small short term goals, don’t give up after the first week and don’t expect immediate results.
  • Reinforce self-discipline and be persistent for success.
  • Keep tracking and set check point
  • Identify reasons for fail short and not repeat past mistakes
  • Reward accomplishment/progress made
  • Do it for your quality of life; trust and love yourself.

At this special time, my heart goes to individuals who are coping with illness and their families. Illness can limit one’s mobility and independence, which changes personal and family life in many ways.  In facing upcoming new challenges, it will take a great deal of effort to be resilient and mentally strong.  To share three resolutions, that research shows will make you happier, for adding on your list –
  1. Spend more time with friends – break the withdrawal mentality and walk out from isolation. Join support groups, share your feelings, and keep in touch with your friends nearby and far away.
  2. Find a way to give something to somebody; beside goods and money, give thanks, helps, and compliments. When you are receiving care, let your family and caregiver know that you are thankful for their help. If you are taking care of your love ones, be happy for what you are doing. Happiness is contagious; what goes around comes around.
  3. Get more sleep, keep up nutrition and exercise – these are your best defense for maintain a strong immune system.  You’ll be less stressed and less sick with good nutrition and beauty rest.   If you are feeling tied, or you frequently feel somewhat depressed, try adding more activities into your life in a way that feels fun or enjoyable. It is use or loose, for your available brain power and body energy. Your power will continue to flow with renewed energy. Your efforts will pay off with enhanced sense of satisfaction and quality of life.
Tips:
  • Be willing and adaptable for changes
  • Be alert for body condition changes and take actions; do not procrastinate
  • Let go of defensive denial and resist toxic thoughts
  • Focus on things you can control, stay informed and take charge
  • Be cautious and not over aggressive, take calculated treatment risks, for the benefit of long term health outcome
  • Empower yourself and connect with your resources for support (don’t fear; you are not alone)
  • Openly share your emotions and show your love, compassion, and gratitude
  • Enjoy life to the fullest and optimal quality
The take home message here - Happiness is a choice, and the choice is yours. 

​Feel free to contact qualitylifeforum@outlook.com for your health coaching needs

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