As the New Year rolls in and we all begin thinking about resolutions and being better people, family members and citizens of the world, I start to think of how I can make  small changes we can make in my everyday life that can make  a big impact on our world, time, health and mental status.    I have come up with about 10 ideas where small improvements can make a big impact

While work is a fact of life, your life does not have to revolve exclusively  around it. This year make  more plans to spend time with your family, friends and loved ones.  This will make the time you spend at work effective and far more productive.   It will remind you why you are working so hard . 

Find the time to exercise.  We all know the health benefits of exercise, but many of us leave it as one of our last priorities.  If you take into consideration the lowered risk of some cancers, increased longevity, lower blood pressure, better sleep and increased energy levels, we might  want to rethink how we prioritize exercise in our daily schedule.   It can benefit you  more than you think.

Tame the waist.  Since about 66 percent of Americans are considered overweight by national studies, it will come as no surprise to most of us that one of the top resolutions is to lose weight.  Like many, if you have tried diets and not been as successful as you might have wanted there is no need to give up hope.  Start with small changes, cut down on soda and  sugary snacks.  Consider healthy options at your favorite places, most have great new options.  A key to success is finding a plan you can stick with and maintain.

Quit Smoking.  Ok, this one is probably one of the toughest issues for resolutions. On average smokers try and fail at least 4 times before succeeding.  With the availability of over the counter aids and cessation programs, the options and help you need to finally break the habit are there for you.  Ask a family member, friend or coworker to be your "break the habit buddy".  When you feel the urge and need some help don't be afraid to ask!

Find the fun again.  Given the stressful and hectic pace of our lives it should be no wonder that resolving to "enjoy life more" or "have more fun" might be higher on most people's priorities list. Getting out and trying something new, developing a new hobby or finding local recreational activities in your own neighborhood can lead to a greater level of personal happiness, and we could all use more of that.

Financial security.  Also known as getting rid of debt!  If you were like most Americans last year and money was a source of stress and trouble you were definitely not alone.  This year why not  work on getting a handle on the financial issues that plagued you last year.  It might solve some of the stress in the year to come.

Learning.  I know I don't know everything, Yet!!! But I am resolved to learn. I resolved to learn at least one new thing every week of this year. For most of us it could be as simple as reading a new book, taking a class or a new craft.  There is a wealth of places in your local area that offer "How To" classes for not too much money.  If you're feeling real ambitious consider a new language or new education for a career move.  The sky's the limit on  what you could accomplish!

Help others.  When you volunteer and help someone else you are always the recipient of positive and uplifting feelings.  Weather you help out at a local library, mentor a child or build a house there is no shortage of organizations that could use the help.  You will benefit from the effort and they will benefit from the service.  

Get it together.  Getting organized is pretty much one of the top things on a "to do" list.   Whether you need to organize your office, home or just reduce the amount of clutter in your life so you can find your stuff when you need it.  Start small, pick one room, one table top or one closet and get to work. Who knows what treasure or trash you just might find under all of the mess.  I use the 30, 60, 90 day rule. If I have not used it in 30 days do I really need it.  If I have not needed it in 60 days why do I keep it? And in 90 days if I have not used it or touched it I throw it away, give it away, sell it! It works for me.

Some of the things suggested here are simple, others much more complex but there is something we can all do to improve our lives, our health and emotional well being.  Just resolve today to start making improvements and who knows where you will be in a year!  Good Luck.