April 2023

Today’s Resolution: See What’s in Your Wallet

Evaluate your credit cards periodically. Check interest rates with other companies and be sure your company is giving you the most competitive rate. Compare perks you receive, and see if you are being charged any extra fees such as an annual maintenance fee. Sometimes you can negotiate with companies for a better deal either on interest rates or perks; you might be able to get a company to waive an annual fee. Loyalty to a company is fine, but sometimes making a change can net you a better offer in the long term.

Today’s Resolution: Engage in Child’s Play

Some of the most relaxing things we can do as adults is to take a break and engage in an activity that will distract us or temporarily take our mind off of our problems. Children might be on to something when it comes to relaxation. Play a video game, blow some bubbles, grab a coloring book, doodle, etc. A local playground or your own backyard might provide an opportunity to swing or seesaw. Feel the wind in your hair; leave inhibitions behind. Playmate not included.

Today’s Resolution: Pass the Word

Passwords are a necessary evil to unlock access to countless accounts we use daily. We are reminded to use passwords that are not too personal (birthdates or children’s names) and cautioned not to re-use the same password for multiple accounts. Some accounts require passwords be changed every 30 -60 days. This can be an annoyance. Resetting passwords is likely to add even more confusion over trying to keep it all straight. Writing passwords down has its own set of problems too, as you don’t want the compilation to wind up in the wrong hands.

Keep some core words or phrases consistent but not exactly the same. Have a theme. Use key numbers and symbols if you need to include these. When you write them down, use cryptic abbreviations that only you can decipher for the type of account the password is for. And don’t use “Password” or “User 123” for accounts.

Today’s Resolution: Get a Shoe Shine

Survey your closet today and take a close look at your footwear. Take a damp cloth to sneakers that look a little dusty. Use a dry cotton cloth on scuffed up dress shoes or break out the polish. Inspect heels for intense wear or looseness. Look for multiple types of shoes. If there are 3 pairs of the same type of shoe, consider getting rid of one of them. Try shoes on you haven’t worn in a while to see if they still fit comfortably. Give yourself a shoe shine

Today’s Resolution: Go from Rags to Riches and an Empty Closet

Got old stuff? Concentrate on donating, selling, or purging things today. Donate no longer needed and gently worn clothes to local charities for the benefit of others. Sell items through a yard sale or donate them to others holding a yard sale. Even if you throw things away, you will always come out ahead either with some extra cash in your pocket or newfound space!

Today’s Resolution: Collect Collectibles

For some people it might be coins, and for others it might be teapots. If you have some type of “collection,” re-examine what you have and find a spot to display it for others to see. If you currently have it out in the open, investigate the possibility of adding to your collection. Check popular websites like eBay or Craig’s list and others. Anything rare in your collection? Find some price lists or comparative items for sale. You may have your hands on a very collectible collectible!

Today’s Resolution: Turn the Tables

Need a change in scenery? You don’t even have to leave your home. Try rearranging a piece of furniture or two for a different perspective.  Move a sofa, change the direction of your bed, or relocate some lamps. It won’t take much movement to give your place a fresh look. Caution: This may require a little cleaning too if you have not vacuumed under the sofa in a while!

Today’s Resolution: Simmer Sweet Smells

Creating a subtle scent in your home can be as close as your lunch. Save orange rinds and apple skins, and place in a plastic bag in your refrigerator. When you have enough to cover the bottom of a small saucepan, add water, cinnamon sticks and simmer for an aromatic scent. Experiment with different fruits and spices. If all else fails, bake some chocolate chip cookies!

Today’s Resolution: Reach for the Stars (or Your Toes!)

Even if you can’t exercise each day, a good stretch will go a long way. Spend 2-3 minutes at various points during the day to stretch those muscles. If you are sitting at a desk, raise your hands above your head and reach as high as you can. Lift both legs and flex your toes. Hold that position for 30 seconds and relax. Try rotating wrists and ankles periodically. Standing? See if you can touch your toes or place the palms of your hands on the ground with straight legs. Try to make progress with flexibility each day.

Today’s Resolution: Put It in the Bag

Give some new life to your overnight bags, travel bags, and sports bags with a whiff of freshness. Before you tuck them away into a closet, add a small sachet or some potpourri to keep them from smelling musty or like the last hotel you stayed in. If you have a favorite athletic bag that is used regularly, it might need a good “airing” outside!