DadTalk

Dad's New Year's Resolution

January is when most of us begin turning our attention to ways we can improve our lives. New Years resolutions that we make at the start of the year dominate our minds

Around the world the month of January is when most of us begin turning our attention to ways we can improve our lives. New Year’s resolutions that we make at the start of the New Year dominate our minds. For example,

• “I will go to bed by 10pm.”
• “I will stop drinking or over eating.”
• “I will go to the gym five times a week.”
• “I will get a thorough health check next year.”
• “I will change my lifestyle.”

New Year’s Resolutions have a tendency to wear out as the ‘year’ progresses. The ‘best’ resolutions are those that keep us focused on changes or new opportunities that will see us through the year ahead (not just for January).

Fathers, before we know it we will be reminded of Fathers day and we may end up feeling guilty about broken promises or resolutions made for the New Year. As I re-organise my garage and throw away all unwanted items I have accumulated over the past year, I wonder if my New Year resolution to minimise and economize will keep me out of temptation.

As the New Year resets the calendar, it is a good time to look at managing the stress of a new year and the changes it will bring. A little stress is actually something positive until it elevates itself into being overwhelming. So, how can we manage stress so it does not become overwhelming?

Let’s look at just how busy we are on a daily basis. Look at how much we try to cram into a single day. Is it a surprise that many people are stressed? So, if we agree that stress is something that is almost impossible to avoid, then how can we manage stress?

1. Stop worrying. Realise there are many things in life that we have no control over. Let them go and focus on what you can change.
   
   
2. Say No! Learn to say “no” to other people and don’t take on more than you can handle.
   
   
3. Take breaks. When you become frustrated doing an activity or task, it can be helpful to take a break. Step back from what you are doing for a while and then go back to it when your frustration level has subsided.
   
   
4. Take care of yourself first. This may sound selfish, but it is necessary. If you get “burned out” you have nothing left to give to others.
   
   
5. Set priorities and focus. This will help you accomplish your tasks and goals in a less stressful manner because you have taken time to plan.
   
   
6. Strive for balance in your life. Balance your life with work, family, friends and your other activities.
   
   
7. Exercise. It has the ability to relax both your mind and body and helps maintain your balance in life.
   
   
8. Celebrate success. Develop and use some positive rewards to keep yourself motivated to achieve your tasks and goals.
   
   
9. Use your sense of humour. Laughter is a great medicine and positive attitudes really help when challenges and difficulties are viewed as opportunities.
   
   
10. Develop a proactive support system. Look for friends, professional advisors and counsellors who can be good sources for needed feedback and support.

Dads, I hope in the New Year you will take time to reflect on the past twelve months and make the right changes that will set better and less stressful objectives for 2011.