As we step into the new year, it’s the perfect time to set meaningful resolutions that inspire joy, health and connection.
Where have the last five years gone? There has been a monumental shift in the way most of us have lived our lives in that time.
Covid reared its ugly head in 2019, upsetting the lives of many families around the world, some we know unfortunately didn’t survive.
The world economy suffered as well as people, with some still experiencing tough times on the home front due to tough economic conditions.
So, with January arriving and the new year to celebrate as a senior person, what can we do to make our new year resolutions come alive and our thoughts more meaningful in the months ahead.
With the new year, comes new possibilities and challenges in our lives. The urge to do better is foremost in our minds. Maybe how we treat other people, other seniors, our friends or even members of our own family.
A lot of people feel compelled to set a new year’s resolution, maybe finally planning a trip away, a cruise to some exotic land, to experience the snow or cold weather, maybe a trip to the Antarctic or a fantastic small ship cruise to some far away destinations in Europe.
As older seniors we may have saved and spirited away more money than we need, but still have those thoughts that we need that money, “just in case”.
However, currently, providing you have reasonable private health cover and with the government’s assistance in most health matters, it may be prudent to spend that extra money on yourself. Most of our children don’t need the extra money when we die so what’s the point in keeping it for them.
Why not buy a new car! Or give some of your wealth to a worthy cause while you’re alive and can see the benefit in giving.
Or maybe your goal is to become fitter and join a gym or walking group, enjoying the company of others with similar ideas.
Maybe this year you can become better organised, being more aware of what you must achieve, and work towards a smarter way of doing things and going places. Getting up early, instead of sleeping in. Not being so lazy, becoming more productive.
Maybe you have a disability that doesn’t allow you much latitude in the way you do things, this can be tough.
Maybe learn a new game, play chess with the computer, or scrabble with a friend. Some seniors are housebound, maybe a phone call to invite someone over, they too maybe feeling left out at this time.
Maybe the family have gone away on holidays leaving you alone. Stoic you say: “I’m all right”, when asked how you’d be on your own.
(Oldies say those things).
Tell people how you really feel, they wouldn’t have asked otherwise.
This can be a great time of the year to start getting on top of your finances.
Pay off the small bills first and use that money saved, to pay off the next highest.
So, whatever you decide, be kind to yourself and have a happy and productive new year.
It’s great to be alive, in 2025.
John Wilson.
