World's Top-10 New Year resolutions

Saving money and losing weight – not surprising seeing them high up on the list of New Year resolutions.

“The big problem I have is losing money and saving weight, instead of the opposite!” explained Nawal R, a Dubai-based entrepreneur, who aims to watch her finances and her diet from 2015.

Another individual who’s ready for a change in 2015 is self-proclaimed chain smoker Sarah B.

Speaking to ‘Emirates 24|7’, she said, “I’ve been smoking since I was a teen but I’ve cut down massively this year since I had my first child, and God willing I’m on my way to stop smoking once and for all.”

Sarah joins millions around the world in keeping one of the most popular new year’s resolutions that would have significance in and add a meaning to her life.

Here are common ones we’ve rounded up, according to surveys and polls conducted by various sources.

Quit smoking

This one’s high up on the list of New Year’s resolutions.

Considered a terrible habit, smoking can have a major impact on your health.

As old habits die hard, getting rid of this addiction can gain an added boost with the help of support groups and professionals. Having the will to do it, is key.

Make up your mind to finally stop all that lighting and puffing.  You’ll save money and clean up your lungs - a great path to breathing a clean sigh of relief in 2015.

Losing weight / exercising

Losing weight and exercising are also on top of the list. Almost everyone wants to shed a few kilos and it doesn’t take much to figure out why.

The holiday season is a time to overeat and indulge, with many people coming close to their breaking point after a New Year’s Eve buffet dinner. Now’s your chance to join a gym or a group class and start eating healthier.

Plus point: maintaining this resolution secures you a future with fewer trips to the doctor.

Enjoy life more / Cut down on stress
It’s known that a little bit of stress can actually provide us with a bit of energy boost.
But if stress hits at you frequently, then it can lead to depression, heart disease, obesity and insomnia.

Relaxation, socializing, sleeping, going on holiday can all play a huge part in eliminating stress.

Learning something new

Some people tend to repeat  the same thing over and over again, ending up getting stuck in a rut.
It’s now time to break out of it, by trying something new this year.

Learn to play a musical instrument, study a new language, try out new popular restaurants and order exotic foods.

No matter what activity you choose, it will be a valuable addition, surely to enrich your life.

Save money

A popular goal for many families.  You can cut back on nonessential items to save some extra cash on the stuff you really need.

Put aside a little money each week and your savings account will grow substantially over time. In 2015, learn to budget your money better and try to avoid running into debts.

Tip: Create and stick to a monthly or weekly budget & cut down on three major bills

Be more organised

You don’t have to wait for spring to begin cleaning.

If the clutter in your home is starting to get out of control, you need to start going through your belongings and getting rid of what you don’t use regularly.

Tip: Donate old clothing and furniture to a worthy cause.

Spend more time with family/friends

With the pressures of the hectic lifestyle of today, it appears that most ‘workaholics’ are trying to make an effort to make some more time not just for themselves, but with family and friends.

Instead of organizing extra meetings and shifts, start planning trips to see your loved ones.  Make it a priority to see your child’s game or dance show. Creating memories is something that money can’t buy.

And balance of work and life is crucial for a happier, stress-free life.

Volunteer more

If you’re passionate about a cause, then 2015 can be a perfect time for you to give it the attention it deserves by volunteering.

Pet lovers can volunteer at a local animal shelter, while those with a love for children can help out at a programme after school.

You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment by doing something positive for someone in need.

Spending less time on social media

Social media was initially aimed at helping you get and stay in touch with friends and family.

But if your personal life is being affected by your virtual life, then it’s probably time to work on changing a few things, like logging off more every now and then.

Read more books

With so much entertainment available to us in various forms these days, books may be getting less attention than they used to.

Yet, a lot of folks continue to add this to their list of resolutions.

Whether it’s about reading to get lost in a piece of fiction, or a tutorial to help you learn something, choose a book that interests you and dive into it head on.

Picture:Shutterstock
 

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