Top Ten New Years Resolutions for the Average American

A few of these resolutions are well known and made by thousands of Americans each year. Others are resolutions for the average Joe who is looking to improve his life in the coming year.

1. Quit Smoking: Unlike thirty years ago, the effects of smoking have become common knowledge. Not only are you putting yourself at risk for throat cancer and lung cancer, but you are putting others at risk as well. Inhaling second hand smoke is now known to cause cancer. That puts a different light on things when you are smoking around your children and loved ones. Join other Americans this year and quit smoking for good. There are many different aids available to help you quit (nicotine patch, gum, pills, and therapy) so you have no excuse.

2. Lose Weight: This has to be the second most common resolution. With the rise in obese Americans who are getting diabetes solely due to their weight, this also becomes an important health issue. The show Biggest Loser is bringing hope back for those who need to lose weight. You can log on to their website and get all the training you need to exercise and eat healthy. You don't have to starve yourself to be thin either. There are so many resources available you just have to do the research. Don't use diet pills or starvation. That is a temporary fix, not a permanent solution to the problem. Go to NBC.com and click on the Biggest Loser show.

3. Quit Drinking: How many kids and adults have died because a drunk driver hit them. Drinking is also unhealthy for your body, killing your liver and causing super huge beer bellies in men. This New Year's get help if you have a drinking problem.

4. Go back to School: A lot of older Americans have a dream of going back to school. I found out that it is actually easier to get financial aid the older you are. Go ahead and apply and see what you are offered. If you can only take a course at a time than do it. There is no rule on how long you can take to finish and get your degree.

5. Spend more time with your family: It is common for most families to hold down several jobs to make ends meet. It is not very healthy, however, to neglect relationships with your family members. We only have one life so let's make it a point to schedule in time for our families.

6. Try something new: I love this one. Think of something you have always wanted to try, but where scared to try. You many find that you hate it, but you may find that you love it. I started scrapbooking, and while I am not good at it, I find that it is a great outlet to relieve stress.

7. Work on Your Spiritual Growth: We should never take our spiritual lives for granted. It should be your number one priority. Get deeper in to God's Word this year and make a commitment to attend church regularly. Studies have shown that those who pray live longer lives. Prayer helps reduce stress and as we all know stress can do terrible things to your physical body.

8. Take a trip: We all need a little time away. Even if you can only take a weekend trip one-hour away, I would encourage you to do it. You will find that you will feel rejuvenated when you return. You will be more alert and productive. So if you are stressed out or you just need a little break start planning a little getaway.

9. Pay off that Christmas Debt: Most people put their Christmas purchases on their credit card. That then leads them to use one of their New Year's resolutions on paying off their credit cards. Once you have done that though, don't stop there. Start saving money for next Christmas so you won't have to use your credit cards again.

10. Get a better job: If you feel that you are getting paid enough or might be better qualified in another area, by all means look for a new job this year. I would recommend that you don't quit your current job until you have found and been offered the new job.