I don’t know anyone who makes a long list of New Year’s resolutions anymore. Why start the year setting yourself up for failure? I like Jill William’s approach. Hers is a single, doable goal: eat less and walk more. It’s hard to argue with that one.
Those looking to work on their financial health might appreciate America’s personal finance guru Suze Orman’s simple rule for improving ones financial position: live beneath your means but within your needs. In other words, buy only what you need and not what you want. She believes people should enjoy saving as much as spending, and encourages them to find satisfaction in watching their savings grow, knowing this will have long term benefits. That attitude requires an ability to delay gratification.
My resolution is to be more mindful in how I spend my time. Pretty vague, and impossible to measure, so not a SMART goal, but maybe a smart one. The intention is to use my most precious and dwindling resource in more meaningful ways. Notable passings this year, including that of my mother, has made me more conscious of one’s legacy. I’m going to work on mine.
This year each edition will feature a profile of one of our many service organizations where individuals are committed to serving our community. Over that last 11 years of producing this paper, I have had the honour of seeing members of these organizations at work and have found inspiration in their generosity. They find ways to help make our community more kind and welcoming. I hope their stories inspire others to find their own ways use their gifts to help others, and build their own legacies. Happy New Year. KG
