Another year has come and gone, and it’s time for a fresh start. There’s something exciting about going into a new year — it feels full of possibility because it’s our chance to commit (or recommit) to a resolution that’s going to make us better. At the Office on Women’s Health, we practice what we preach, so we’re making plans to improve our health and well-being. Check out what some of my colleagues are pledging to do for their health in 2018. Maybe you’ll find an idea for yourself! 

1. Brooke says: I’ve put my money where my mouth is and bought a subscription to an app that will help me meditate every day. I think most of us see articles and advice to reduce stress, and we just shrug our shoulders. I think being stressed out is just the way life is, so I’m going to challenge that belief to see if meditating (for just three minutes a day at first) will help me lower stress in 2018. Wish me luck!
2. Adrianne says: I want to invest in my mental health more. Work is stressful. Adulting is stressful. LIFE is stressful! I will focus on things that make me smile inside and help me manage my stress, like traveling, taking a Spanish class or a dance class, meditating, and making more time for friends and family.
3. Ann says: I have resolved to move forward with knee replacement surgery. After years of increasing pain and decreasing mobility, I’ve decided that enough is enough!
4. Emily says: My resolution is to eat healthy and exercise more. This year, I’m optimistic that this resolution will be long-lasting, as I’ve taken steps to ensure that I start off on the right foot. After Thanksgiving, I joined my local gym, and I’ve been to numerous classes and have taken advantage of free personal training sessions. Similarly, my husband and I have adopted a plant-based diet. To help us stay on track, I’m cooking at home more often, which requires more planning. To make it easier, I signed up for a vegetable delivery service that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables every week. This cuts back on the time needed for grocery shopping and allows me to do other things, like go to the gym!
5. Valerie says: After years of struggling with inflexibility, I’ve decided to set a stretching schedule. As a self-proclaimed high-intensity exerciser, committing to a stretching routine has never had much appeal to me. Because I’m aware of the benefits it’ll bring, I’m finally committed to doing it. I saw a personal trainer recently to get evaluated and to establish a program. Now I’m setting a goal to stretch for at least 10 minutes at some point every day!

I hope hearing from others about their resolutions is reassuring and reminds you that we’re all working on being healthier. I also hope it inspires you to pick a resolution you can work toward. If you slip up, remember that it’s OK. Just get back on track the next day. Good luck — I know you can do it!