Resolutions you can definitely keep

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton
  • 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs
As 2014 comes to a close, thoughts of personal change and new beginnings develop. Hopeful attitudes and renewed determinations quickly dominate Facebook statuses and Twitter updates as people devote themselves to a new lifestyle.

However, more often than not, the motivation from so many broad, vague resolutions is quickly replaced with the latest celebrity gossip or seasonal distraction. It further cements people's belief that change is difficult, if not impossible.

To combat this assumption, people looking to change can look at breaking apart these large, generic resolutions into smaller, achievable and specific goals. Focusing on small changes over time can help individuals realize the overall change they are looking for.

Here are four resolutions people can absolutely keep:

"I will sign up for a class this year."

So many people set a goal to further their education at the start of the New Year. Andy Matthews, 423rd Force Support Squadron education specialist, said focusing that big idea into a smaller, more achievable goal can help individuals see real accomplishment.

He encourages Airmen to actively pursue their Community College of the Air Force degree, and any other educational goals they may have.

"I will read more."

Mari Mayers, 423rd FSS library technician, has her own resolution that may fall in line with people looking to expand their reading list. She is committed to showing patrons the features and benefits at the RAF Alconbury base library. From guided tours to book clubs and children's rooms, the library is available to people who want to find that perfect book to lose themselves in.

"I will start going to the gym."

Fitness is always one of the most popular New Year's resolutions, said Matthew Sumpter, 422nd Air Base Squadron fitness center director. He encourages people to make visiting the gym an experience, rather than a "numbers game." So often, Sumpter sees people start working out looking for fast results. After a few weeks, they get frustrated and give up.

Rather than focusing on pounds or inches, Sumpter tells people to enjoy the workout and make it a habit.

"The numbers will come," he said.

"I will explore Europe."

Get off your installation, said Kari Gonzales, 423rd FSS Information, Tickets and Tours manager. Several people wait until the last minute before travelling throughout Europe and beyond. Gonzales said ITT offers affordable and adventurous trips to individuals looking to get out and explore. She hopes people will use this resolution as an opportunity to see all the amazing sites this continent has to offer.