It’s hard to believe, but half the year has already passed. How are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions? Do they seem too daunting? Perhaps they may not be if you break them up into smaller steps and take action on the first ones. Here are some ideas to kick-start you on the path to achieving your goals this year:
Resolution #1: I want to improve my health.*
Whether that goal means losing weight, eating better, reducing risk factors for disease or lessening stress, many people have remarked to me that this year has brought no meaningful changes to their health and overall well-being. To them, I say take a couple small steps toward your goal, and you’ll be on your way.
- Small Step #1: Think about going for a walk every day. You can start improving physical activity levels by walking each day, ideally after a meal. Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can find ways to walk more. Try the mall (but don’t impulse buy while you’re there).
- Small Step #2: Consider adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet. As you change what you eat, your tastes will begin to change too, and cravings for sugar-rich, processed, fatty foods will diminish. Ask your health professional for some ideas for more nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables.
Resolution #2: I want to improve my financial situation.
This goal can range from paying down debts levels to organizing your estate for the next generation. Wherever you are in the wealth spectrum, you can commit to action.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
- Small Step #1: Lay out a budget statement, including all expenditures, assets and liabilities. Just doing this mentally isn’t good enough: Make sure you write it down on paper. It will help to organize your thoughts and then your actions.
- Small Step #2: Talk to your financial professionals. Your financial adviser, accountant and attorney can all help you gain some perspective.
Resolution #3: I want to improve my overall happiness.
Are you as happy as you could be right now? What are some ways in which you could be happier?
- Small Step #1: Call some friends and get together. For some people life can be less fun when led in solitude. Take comfort in your friends and loved ones, and talk about how to help each other.
- Small Step #2: Take stock of what you have, do and believe. Happiness is a state of mind, and figuring out where the gaps are from where you are and where you want to be will help you uncover how to make the transitions.
* This newsletter is being provided for informational purposes only and is not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your personal condition, as well as, prior to beginning any diet or exercise regimen.
-
Five Downsides of Dividend Investing for RetireesCan you rely on dividend-paying stocks for retirement income? You'd have to be extremely wealthy — and even then, the downsides could be considerable.
-
Dow, S&P 500 Slip on December Rate Cut Worries, Nvidia Boosts Nasdaq: Stock Market TodayNvidia became the first company ever to boast a $5 trillion market cap, but it wasn't enough to lift the Dow and the S&P 500.
-
Five Downsides of Dividend Investing for Retirees, From a Financial Planner
Can you rely on dividend-paying stocks for retirement income? You'd have to be extremely wealthy — and even then, the downsides could be considerable.
-
I'm a CPA: Control These Three Levers to Keep Your Retirement on TrackThink of investing in terms of time, savings and risk. By carefully monitoring all three, you'll keep your retirement plans heading in the right direction.
-
Debunking Three Myths About Defined Outcome ETFs (aka Buffered ETFs)Defined outcome ETFs offer a middle ground between traditional equity and fixed-income investments, helping provide downside protection and upside participation.
-
This Is Why Judge Judy Says Details Are Important in Contracts: This Contract Had HolesA couple's disastrous experience with reclaimed wood flooring led to safety hazards and a lesson in the critical importance of detailed contracts.
-
A Lesson From the School of Rock (and a Financial Adviser) as the Markets Go Around and AroundIt's hard to hold your nerve during a downturn, but next time the markets take a tumble, remember this quick rock 'n' roll tutorial and aim to stay invested.
-
I'm a Financial Pro: This Is How You Can Guide Your Heirs Through the Great Wealth TransferFocus on creating a clear estate plan, communicating your wishes early to avoid family conflict, leaving an ethical will with your values and wisdom and preparing them practically and emotionally.
-
To Reap the Full Benefits of Tax-Loss Harvesting, Consider This Investment Strategist's StepsTax-loss harvesting can offer more advantages for investors than tax relief. Over the long term, it can potentially help you maintain a robust portfolio and build wealth.
-
Social Security Wisdom From a Financial Adviser Receiving Benefits HimselfYou don't know what you don't know, and with Social Security, that can be a costly problem for retirees — one that can last a lifetime.
