Happy New Year’s 2020 to all! We’re almost there, and there’s nothing I hate love more than the New Year’s resolutions that die a slow, and sometimes rapid, death at the beginning of each year. But no fear, K.D. is here! And I’m going to dote on my darker side for a bit followed by the light side, ending this post on a high note (And not medicinally induced either- wink). Here’s my two cents on the The Light and the Dark Side of New Year’s Resolutions!
The Dark Side of New Year’s Resolutions
What post would be “complete” without a Star Wars meme this time of year. Moving right along, what are the light and the dark sides of New Year’s resolutions? First, let’s start with the dark side. I’m getting old. Or at least it feels that way. My joints ache, my muscles spasm at the mere thought of exercising, and my skin’s drier than sandpaper. All of this to say, that most people’s wish list of things to do in the new year pertain to weight/fitness.
Is this noble? Sure. Is it going to last? Probably not. Is anyone surprised? Nope. But it doesn’t stop copious amounts of people from lying to themselves about how this year will be different.
New’s Flash: It won’t. Probably. You’ve got a slim chance of sticking to goals and following through, but logic suggests that most give up. After all, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. And you know what that means… chocolate! Even if you’re not into the dreaded love day, then may I remind you of the Super Bowl???
Food Celebrations by Month
Nachos, burgers, hot dogs, cookies, candy, the list goes on. We have a “celebration” every month, people. Think about it. Let’s begin:
- January 1st rings in the New Year and New Year’s resolutions
- February – Valentine’s Day
- March – St. Patrick’s Day and sometimes Easter (if you celebrate it)
- April – National Empanada Day AND National Grilled Cheese Day
- May – National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day
- June – National Doughnut Day
- July – Fourth of July and National Ice Cream Sunday Day
- August – National Ice Cream Sandwich Day
- September – International Bacon Day and National Beer Day
- October – Halloween
- November – Thanksgiving AND National Nachos Day
- December – HOLIDAY SEASON
Folks, please, there’s practically a food celebration for each day of the month. Really. No wonder we all fail in our New Year’s Resolutions when it pertains to food and/or exercise. But what about money goals or life goals?
Again, let’s be honest. We all start off January a whirling dervish and end it as a piece of gum stuck underneath a subway seat. Does the truth hurt? Yep, yep it does, but better to rip the proverbial band aid than remain steadfast in delusions of grandeur. (I’m a Star Wars fan. What can I say?)
2020 Resolutions
Anyway, where was I? Oh yes, the light and the dark sides of New Year’s Resolutions. Right. So, what are mine? This is the dark side of the post. 2019 stunk. All kinds of health problems popped up and a few more felt left out. A banner year, I think not. BUT, I’m still alive, and that’s my first New Year’s Resolution for 2020: Stay alive.
At this time, I’m starting 2020 off with a bang, unless, of course, I keel over between now and Wednesday. However, morose sense of humor aside, I’m ready for 2020. I’ve got an operation scheduled in January, and I’m thrilled. Yep, you heard that right. I’m thrilled. Why? Because tumors must be annihilated.
Without a doubt I’m looking forward to it. Not the possible bleeding to death, or the other complications that could crop up, mind you, but it will significantly prolong my life and improve the quality of it, too. And that means quality books and blog posts for you to peruse and enjoy for the foreseeable future.
It’s a win win situation!
Next, I do want a healthier me. BUT, slow and steady wins the race, right? Small changes in my eating gives added benefits for my heart, kidneys, bones, skin, hair, etc… Did you know that exercise amounts to only 20% of weight loss? The other 80% is what you put in your mouth. That’s no joke!
Let Them Eat Cake
Never you worry, though. Cake is still in my future, albeit gluten-free, but that’s a whole OTHER story. Plus, Krumkake and Risengrynsgrøt have to be eaten more than once per year. Okay, more than once per month!
Let them eat cake!
On occasion, I’ll dabble in the sweetness of life. All ready, I’ve lost a total of 35 pounds in 2019, and NO, it wasn’t because of my illnesses. I made little changes that added up, and voila! Here’s to a healthier me in 2020.
And what about exercise? That’s a goal, too, but not like you think. My initial goal is to walk around the house without aching, and that’s doable in 2020.
The Light Side of New Year’s Resolutions
What else? Uh, oh yeah, WRITING! Duh. In case you missed it, here’s what I’m working on now. And don’t forget this post! I plan on writing a draft of a book every six to eight weeks. That’s no small feat, but why aim low, right? Aim for the sun, and you might just get the moon. Writing is my passion, and it’s helped a lot this past year. It does shed light on times of hardship, and what better way to entertain people and enhance my mood, too.
Another plan is to start a podcast. I’ve got to hold off on that one until after the operation. One complication is permanent loss of my voice. Yikes! As you can see, I need to wait, but I’m hopeful you’ll be hearing my voice sometime this year.
Subsequently, I’d like to work on my drawing. If you follow me on Facebook, then you’ll know that I dabbled in drawing this year for the first time ever. While I’ve always been interested in it, I’ve never had the confidence. Until now that is. I was surprised by the reception, and I’m over the moon about posting some more of my drawings.
As you can see, I’m not against New Year’s Resolutions. Far from it. I just try to have small goals, and then build on them.
What about you? I love to hear from you. What are your New Year’s Resolutions? Please comment below and/or email me at kduptonauthor@gmail.com.
I do hope you have a wonderful New Year’s, and I hope you have the best 2020! Until next time…
Happy resolutions!
K.D.
