Resolutions for 2019!

Real Simple

We're a week into 2019.

Traditionally, the new year usually involves some sort of resolution making. As in, I resolve to eat in a healthier way; I resolve to exercise regularly; I resolve to take better care of myself.

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with any of these, I'd like to propose that this year - given the state of our fractured civil discourse - that we consider the following.

I resolve to make an honest effort to get to know someone who doesn't look, think, believe or act like me. 

It could be a co-worker, a neighbor, someone down the street or in your neighborhood, the grocery store clerk. Anyone that you find yourself regularly bumping into. And to make it fun, why not ask the questions beforehand: "Why do I keep bumping into this person? And what is the Universe trying to get me to pay attention to through her/him?"

Keep it honest. But keep it friendly!

I resolve to back off a bit from social media.

I'm not suggesting an out-and-out break. But something more subtle.

Refuse to make social media your main source of current events. Instead turn to a local/national newspaper that is reliable (meaning publishes reports from a variety of national news sources like the Associated Press, New York Times, other syndicates  that employ seasoned journalists). 

Do yourself a favor and cut back on all cable news, which isn't really news. 

Steer clear of programs that involve panel discussions of experts, that quickly dissolve into shouting matches. You won't learn anything from of them. Avoid programs that feature a host who is more interested in fronting their own opinions instead of letting their guests inform the audience. 

Learn the difference between a first-hand, second-hand and third-hand source. Make sure your news has a high percentage of first-hand sources. (Reading the ingredient label on processed food will quickly show how far away from real food it is. Taking the time to note how much information offered is first hand will help you determine the likelihood of its truth.)

Become really good at spotting the difference between a fact, an inference and an opinion.

Calvin & Hobbes

Develop/keep developing a solid network of a few friends you can depend on.

This means individuals you can meet in person or call. Not followers on Twitter, Facebook on Instagram.

And among them, be sure to include friends who will be honest with you. 

Read more books. Especially non-fiction.

Three years ago a friend challenged me to read more non-fiction than fiction.

At the time, my mix was 95% fiction, 5% non-fiction.

It was an adjustment, but now I've reached the point where my mix is closer to 85% non-fiction/15% fiction. I am a big fan of fiction. I love a good story! And sometimes fiction speaks to us in ways that non-fiction simply can't. For instance, Harper Lee's TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. Her book, although based on real-life experiences, was a work of fiction. But it spoke volumes about the evil of racism.

Reading newspapers and magazines is fine for having a birds-eye grasp of current events. But there are many events that are simply too complex to be covered adequately this way. It takes a book to provide background material, historical perspective and analysis leading to suggestions for action.

Get involved with your community.

Let 2019 be the year that you initiate, continue or expand your volunteer hours! 

Currently our country is going through a difficult period, within which non-profit groups are struggling with increased demand against a political climate that negates the need.

Let your good reading habits lead to a personal call for action! 

Annie Taylor Lebel

Don't let politics get in the way of finding a way to express your soul!

Realize that politics was never meant to be a substitute for religion. 

There is no doubt that the political climate in the White House has had an effect on religious expression - particularly among those of the evangelical stream. Despite where you may stand on the political spectrum, be sure to tend to your soul!

Tap Into Your Creative flow.

Oftentimes it seems like creativity becomes the prerogative of the young. But that's not necessarily the case at all. It doesn't matter what physical age you are. Here's a NY Times article that spotlights a few folks who took a creative leap and found a new, and successful career because of it.


Finally, focus on solutions, not sarcasm. 

Let your sense of humor work for you, not against you!

Happy 2019 everyone!