1. Spend More Time with Family (and Friends)

Recent polls indicate that more than 50% of Americans plan to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with their family and friends this year. With the economy putting a crimp on travelling, it is much easier to accomplish, at least with friends and family that live nearby.

2. Getting in Shape

Usually getting in shape is at least # 2 every year, and this year is no different. Everyone knows that exercise keeps you healthy and makes you look and feel better. Most keep their commitment for a few weeks and then taper off. The main excuse for not getting in shape is either no time, or bad weather.

3. Losing Weight

Another annual favorite with Americans is losing some weight. Over 2/3rds of adult Americans are considered overweight (or obese). The key to any commitment is to set reasonable goals, and make changes in your daily routine that will help in your efforts. Combine reasonable changes in your diet, with some exercise, and your resolution next year will be to only continue your efforts.

4. Get Out of Debt

The economy is now the number one problem in our Country, and most Americans are committed to changing their life styles. Luxuries are a thing of the past. Americans are now looking forward to reasonable expectations, “staycations,”, and smaller houses. If we did this 8 years ago, the Country would not be in the mess it is in today.

 5. Enjoying Life More

Along with reducing stress most folks feel that simply kicking back and taking a “one-day-at a time” attitude is a lot more satisfying. A lot of people are reading more, or looking for a simple hobby. More Americans are also spending time with their children, which is better for family life in general.

6. Stop or Control Drinking

Just after raising their glass and toasting the New Year, a lot of folks swear that this year will be the year where they cut back on alcohol consumption. With alcohol related accidents and deaths starting to rise in the past few years, this can never be a bad idea, Many groups would prefer that the resolution would be to never drink and drive, and if you are going to drink, either do so at home, or have a designated driver.

7. Quit Smoking !!!!

As a percentage of people that make resolutions, this category is always very high. In the past 10 years this Country has actually seen a decline in smoking, because Americans realize that smoking kills people. Statistically, an average smoker will quit at least 3 times before they quit for good. Then they jump on the “I wish everyone would quit” Bandwagon.

8. Getting Organized
Another annual favorite with Americans is to get organized, whether at home, or in business. Most people recognize that some portion of their daily life could be improved if they simply made it easier to find things, or made decision making easier. Whether it is junk in a garage or attic, or a messy desk in your office, your daily fumbling through unnecessary stuff is a waste of time. Like losing weight, a commitment to keep the junk out of your house or off your desk should be part of your commitment.

9-10. The last two resolutions that Americans make each year are split between commitments to: “Learn a Hobby”, “Volunteer to Help Others”, “Learn a New Part Time Way to Make Money” and “Not make Resolutions They Can’t Keep” !
 

11. Do what you need to do at your dentist office

Whether it be-- A)  get those cavities filled and crowns done, because you know a tooth ache could be just around the corner and you should always be maximizing your insurance benefits.  B)  Bleach your teeth like you have said you have always wanted to do.  C)  Seek  an orthodontic consult because you really do want your teeth straighter.  D)  Go for the veneers...a "Smile Design" by Dr. Ueckert that can put all of you aesthetic smile worries to rest!!