HAPPY HALF NEW YEAR! That’s right, we’re officially at 2023’s midway point. Instead of celebrating with champagne and sequins, it’s time to check in on the New Year’s resolutions you set six months ago. If that makes you a tad anxious…same, bestie.
As is my custom, most of my New Year’s resolutions have not survived the spring. My Duolingo streak has evaporated, my sleep is still dysregulated and my savings account is less flush than I would like. Alas. Expecting instant — and significant — behavior shifts from ourselves is usually an exercise in futility.
But here’s the thing: I love resolutions, and I’ll probably never stop making them. It gives me a chance to reflect on and affirm my values. Even if I won’t be hitting a 365-day Duolingo streak anytime soon (perdóname, Duo), I still care about learning Spanish. I’ve been watching The Heist on Netflix and practicing speaking with my sisters when I can. I’m not reaching my goal of eight or more hours of sleep each night, but I’m still trying. Lately I’ve been reading before bed instead of scrolling Instagram, and I like to think it helps.
If I frame resolutions as part of my self-growth, I'm allowed to pivot. And halfway through the year is a great time to recommit to those goals — or pick new ones entirely. For example, perfecting my sunscreen routine has moved up my priority list.
To help you take stock of your year and – if you feel up to it – your life, check out Life Kit’s Resolution Planner. What are your values, and how do they translate to habits? This page has more than 40 guides to help you think through that question. Consider working on wasting less food, training your dog or finding a mentor — and don’t forget to give yourself a break.
It’s easy to rack up a big bill when buying groceries, but there are several ways to make cooking (and eating) more budget-friendly. One idea? Get creative with ingredient substitutes. Learn more here.
Photographs Unsplash; Collage by Kaz Fantone/NPR
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