By Emily McLaughlin

I know, I know, Allie DeLay told us to ix-nay the New Year’s resolutions and plan for healthy changes that will last a lifetime. Nonetheless, New Year’s is an opportunity/excuse to start anew and set goals, so be sure to take advantage of the glorified holiday.

What I don’t want us all to do, like Allie said, is set unrealistic goals for weight-loss or dieting — It’s hard to keep resolutions like that. Focus on goal-setting and don’t wait until January 1st… get started now! If there are things you want to accomplish in 2013, make a list and put it somewhere visible, somewhere that you will see it each and every day. I’m going to put two lists up: one above my desk at home and one at work.

My list does not include anything unattainable, yet definitely won’t be completed without difficulty. But that’s the point, isn’t it? To challenge ourselves, overcome obstacles and become the best ‘me’ in 2013?

Here are some things I have planned:

1. Floss daily.

I admit, I’m a horrible flosser. I have put some flossers in my car and I’m going to store some at my desk. This way, I can multitask. I love multitasking.

2. Become a registered yoga instructor.

In February, I start my Registered Yoga Teacher training… and I am more than excited.

3. Be an ambassador and contributor (Lululemon, Fitfluential, Greatist, DoYouYoga.com, any and all).

Time has gotten away from me; I can’t believe it’s been over 7 months since graduation. Now that I have settled into an apartment and a routine with work, I can focus on other aspirations. Yoga training is my first priority, but I would also like to contribute to other fitness communities like Fitfluential or Greatist.

4. Take the GREs.

I put off grad school. I meant to apply so that I could start classes in the Fall of 2013. I missed out there, but I still plan on getting back to school for my Masters degree in Journalism.

5. Once passed, apply to grad school.

(The obvious next step.)

6. Get a .com.

Something else I have put off is making SHSH a ‘.com.’ I need to do a little more research about self-hosting and domain payment packages… but I’ll get there before 2013 ends. 

7. Do SHSH “Motivational Monday” posts. 

This series won’t necessarily be called “Motivational Mondays,” but will be a great, inspirational way to kick off the week. Posts will  feature health/wellness/fitness bloggers from the Boston area and beyond, enlightening SHSH readers about why they chose the health paths they’re on. Really excited about this one!

8. Set monthly goals.

To be explained in more detail later. I got this idea from a few friends of mine (Kari did it). Essentially, you choose one thing to give up or something to add to your daily routine for an entire month, and each month you choose something new. For example, in January you might go vegetarian, but in February you might choose to do yoga every day. The idea is to challenge your self-control and will-power.

This list is bound to get a little longer. I’m already considering adding “9. Travel more” and “10. Read more.” Anyways, that is my list for now… what are some of your goals, resolutions and aspirations?

Still not into “New Year’s Resolutions?” How about taking part in Commitment Day?