Anti-Aging     

Columbus, Ohio    12-16-05

New Year's is the worst time of the year to make resolutions. We typically make them after we stay up too late, drink too much, eat too much, and watch too much TV'hardly an optimal frame of mind for follow through. The timing is arbitrary so there is little leverage to create motivation. The resolutions are usually too ambitious and too rigid. It's a recipe for failing,' says Anti-Aging Psychologist Dr. Michael Brickey.

This doesn't mean you shouldn't make New Year's resolutions'just make them sticky. Sticky resolutions are easy to make and easy to keep. They involve either belief tweaks or small changes in behavior.  Examples include resolving:

~ to make new friends no matter how old you are (helps you to feel optimistic about aging and to have a support network).
~ to always bring something with you to read in case you find yourself waiting (prevents boredom and enhances learning).
~ to do your best to make someone smile or laugh each morning (helps you feel good too--post a reminder somewhere to remind you until it becomes a habit).
~ to routinely take the stairs at work instead of the elevator (takes no time to help you stay fit and loses weight).

New Year's is a lousy time for the usual resolutions but a great time for sticky resolutions.

Dr. Michael Brickey is President of the Ageless Lifestyles Institute and author of the Oprah-featured book, Defy Aging and just released 52 baby steps to Grow Young. To learn about more about the psychology of being youthful at every age, contact Dr. Brickey at 614-237-4556 or DrBrickey@DrBrickey.com. Also see www.DrBrickey.com

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