Whatever your resolution, key is taking action

It's easy to get caught up in day-to-day activities, but sometimes the calendar forces us to take a break.

The Thanksgiving-Christmas-New Years holidays are the biggest of the year, and it's good to use the time to take a fresh look at where we've been, where we are and where we want to go.

Can it be a whole year since we last considered New Year's resolutions? How did you do?

We found a list of popular resolutions on the USA.gov website, and while the list doesn't cover everything, it's a good start.

* Drink less alcohol. It's OK to celebrate the New Year, but if your drinking is affecting your life or health, get some help.

* Eat healthy food. Three-fourths of your diet should be fruits, vegetables and grains.

* Get a better education. McCook is blessed with a good community college, and a wide variety of educational opportunities are available online.

* Get a better job. Use that better education to improve your income, and even if you're fortunate enough to be employed, keep your resume updated.

* Get fit. McCook has a great YMCA and other fitness centers. Get involved in a sport or activity such as running, cycling, golf or softball.

* Lose weight. See above. Contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

* Manage debt. Take a personal finance course and pay off credit cards.

* Manage stress. Slow down, jettison unnecessary responsibilities and keep in touch with close friends. Don't be afraid to enlist the help of a clergy person on counselor.

* Quit smoking. There are plenty of resources to help you quit, and your health and pocket book will benefit as a result.

* Reduce, reuse and recycle. You'll feel better about being a responsible citizen of the world.

* Save money. After you've paid off high-interest credit cards, set up automatic savings and retirement systems.

* Take a trip. Use the money you saved in paying off credit cards and reducing debt to treat yourself to a new adventure.

* Volunteer to help others. Nothing can take your mind off your own troubles better than improving the lives of the less fortunate.

We're sure you have other, more specific resolutions in mind, but the main thing is, get going!

Take time this New Years Day to resolve to make some needed changes in your life.

There are plenty of links to helpful resources at USA.gov