Year after year, we count down the seconds until January 1 arrives, and we have such high hopes that the new year will be different. We promise ourselves we'll really stick with our resolutions, whether we want to eat better, hit the gym three times a week or get more organized.
But alas, old habits die hard. As Groundhog Day approaches, we've already gotten into the Oreos, thrown our workout gear into the back of the closet and lost another set of keys under the papers in the kitchen.
The good news is that you might not be to blame for failing to keep your resolutions. It might be all about the clutter! If that's the case, read on for some quick fixes to help you achieve five of the most popular New Year's resolutions.
1. Eat Healthier/Lose Weight
You would be willing to cook dinner more nights (forgoing expensive and unhealthy take-out), if only you could remember to defrost the meat before you leave for work, and if only you could find what you need in your pantry.
Quick fix: 1. Clear the pantry out and refill the shelves by placing like items together, just as you'd find them grouped on the grocery store shelves. 2. Write out eight dinners you'd like to cook in the next 14 days. Get input from family members and flip through cookbooks and take-out menus for ideas. 3. Make a list of ingredients you'll need, then shop for them. 4. Finally, put your keys in the freezer near what needs to be defrosted. You'll never leave the house again without remembering to take out the frozen food.2. Exercise More
You would be willing to use your treadmill, if only it weren't already being used as a portable clothes closet.
Quick fix: 1. Unearth your exercise equipment by putting away the clothes hanging on it. 2. Locate your exercise clothes and give them a drawer, shelf or basket of their own. 3. Gather appropriate accessories, such as a water bottle and music. 4. Store everything you need for the day's workout in one place so you can easily grab it on the way to the gym or wherever you exercise.
