Thursday, January 3, 2008

New Year Resolution…Seriously it’s Fun

In Roman tradition, Janus, the two faced God was depicted on calendars as he could look back on past events and also look forward to the future. Eventually, Janus became a symbol of making resolutions. This has also given a handle to killjoys who deride resolute resolution-makers as being Janus-faced as they seldom keep their promises.

How ever, the first few days of the New Year are good time to reflect on the past as well as chalk out the future by resolving to do better. The ritual of making New Year resolutions is a way of undertaking mental spring-cleaning, throwing out useless stuff, shaking off unhealthy habits and introducing fresh lifestyle patterns that could brighten the future.

Most resolutions made in the New Year end up being just that. Mere promises we make to over selves but are unable to fulfill. Yet, come another year, we’re energized once again to draw up a list of dos and don’ts to follow in the days ahead. And so the cycle continues. But, in the process, with each new self-commitment- though it might not be kept – something happens that helps us evolve. Beginning the new year with a resolve to get rid of a pesky habit is much more fun than being cynical about it. And who knows? One day we might surprise over selves – and others- by sticking to our resolve for not just that one year but may be for the rest of our lives.

Most resolutions made on new year’s day are to do with correcting lifestyle habits- saying ‘no’ to smoking, choosing a diet plan, walking regularly or enrolling in a gym for physical fitness- but some are also about keeping in touch with friends and relatives, reading more, making time for leisure activity, being kind and budgeting well. Students might plan study schedules or aim to watch less TV. It does not matter if the enthusiasm is sporadic or short-lived. Making resolutions is as integral to the new year spirit as is partying on new year.

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