Why Heading Outdoors is the Perfect New Year’s Resolution

As we move closer to the end of the year, it’s time to start planning for another round of New Year’s resolutions. Whether it’s trying to stay fit, saving money or getting organized, a simple fact remains: Only about 8 percent of people who make resolutions actually stick to them as per Forbes citing research from the University of Scranton.

There are many opinions about why people fail to stick with their goals —

But one common thread seems to appear in most resolution failure stories:

New Year’s resolutions are simply too much pressure, and eventually the stress of trying to stay on track outweighs the supposed benefit.

This year, why not try something different?

Give yourself a simple resolution that is easy to stick to, such as spending more time outdoors. The great outdoors offers everything you need to make 2016 a year of great change. It is healthy for your in so many ways!

It’s a Realistic and Gradual Goal

People typically choose resolutions that limit their lifestyle instead of expanding upon it. Whether it’s putting a limitation on the number of calories you eat or spending less time watching television, these types of resolutions are doomed to fail. For one thing, they hinge on making a sudden change instead of a gradual one. Instead, a resolution should be about slowly nudging yourself away from bad habits by replacing them with good ones.

That’s why deciding to be spend for time outdoors more is such an effective resolution. It doesn’t come with any expectations, but just keeps you healthy!

• If you want to lose weight, a simple weekend hike is a great way to get you off the couch and away from the fridge. Plus, it lacks the embarrassment or intimidation factor that can sometimes accompany an expensive gym membership.
• Or if you’re trying to be more patient, there’s nothing like fishing or starting a fire to nurture patience.
• The fresh air and sunshine are so good for your health. Sunshine provides us with Vitamin D that our body needs to stay healthy.
• Take a deep breath of fresh unpolluted air, use the time to relax and let your troubles float away for a while. Reduce your stress naturally and you will reap the bounty of many health benefits.
• It helps us appreciate nature and we can educate ourselves on plants, animals, and the beauty that Nature provides us with.

Being Outdoors Is Inexpensive

The common misconception about the outdoors is that it costs a lot of money to partake in various activities, such as hunting or fishing. In reality, a sturdy pair of boots and a good water bottle is all you need to venture outside. Being in nature is, first and foremost, about exploration. Finding a specific outdoor hobby will come in time. Start simple by setting the easily achievable goal of being outside a few times a week. Don’t set a specific number because the first time you don’t hit your quota, you’ll have an excuse to give up altogether.

And don’t buy a ton of gear as a way to force yourself outdoors. This tricky little bit of reverse psychology tends to backfire and can actually make you resent the outdoors because of the strain it put on your wallet. For now, take advantage of a great Black Friday sale and grab yourself those boots or a warm jacket — just enough to get you started. You can always buy yourself a sleek new fishing rod or a GPS tracker in a few months as a reward.

Whatever you decide to do make it enjoyable, relaxing, and rewarding. Hiking, fishing, hunting, bird watching, or just enjoying nature is well worth the time and effort. Appreciating and spending time with nature is all part of living healthy and a green lifestyle.

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Marla

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Hi! Thanks for visiting my blog! I believe in living green, organically, and natural in every aspect of our lives. My mission is to help educate you on how to live green, help save our environment and to help you and your family live a happier, healthier life!