This originally aired on the Catholic Faith Network’s show CFN Live: https://youtu.be/N3UQIbX2wGU

It is that time of year for New Year Resolutions. A tradition in which people resolve to continue good practices, change an undesired trait or behavior, accomplish a personal goal or others improve their behavior.

Let’s start with the top three New Year Resolutions for 2024:

1. Improve fitness.
2. Improve finances.
3. Improve mental health.

No surprises. This is consistent with prior years. Everyone wants to feel better physically, financially, and mentally. All very positive.

What are some New Year Resolutions for 2024?

Let’s start with preschoolers:

• I will try hard to clean up my toys by putting them where they belong.
• I will let my parents help me brush my teeth twice a day.
• I will wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.
• I will try new foods when I can, especially all different colors of vegetables.
• I will be friendly to all animals. I will learn how to ask the owners if I can pet their animal first.

How about resolutions for elementary and middle school children?   

Here are some New Year Resolutions of children five to twelve years of age:

• I will drink water every day and healthy beverages like milk with meals. I will keep soda and fruit drinks only for special times.
• I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I’ll sit in the back seat and use a booster seat until I am tall enough to use a lap/shoulder seat belt.
• I will try to find a physical activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) or a sport I like and do it at least three times a week!
• I will take care of my skin by putting on sunscreen and wearing a hat and sunglasses when possible.
• I will try to talk with my parent or a trusted adult when I have a problem or feel stressed.

How about resolutions for teenagers?   

Here are some resolutions for teenagers:

• I will do what I can to help out in my community. I will give some of my time to help others, working with community groups or others that help people in need. These activities will make me feel better about myself and my community.
• When I feel angry stressed out, I will take a break and find helpful ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or talking about my problem with a parent or friend.
• When faced with a difficult decision, I will talk about my choices with an adult I can trust.
• When I notice my friends are struggling, being bullied or making risky choices, I will look for a trusted adult so that we can attempt to find a way to help.

What are some resolutions for centenarians?

Here are what some of our centenarians had to say:

• “I want to see more of the world,” adds Diane, who is 101.
• Margaret, also 101, says she wants to “make a difference.”
• “I want to get a new bachelor pad,” adds 101-year-old Benny.
• Finally, “I want to keep winning at poker,” quips 102-year-old Leonore.

I personally love the idea of people wanting to do better for themselves and others — a very Christian virtue.

And as a planner, my wish for our clients is to make sure their house is in order.  You never know what tomorrow may bring!

We hope you found this article helpful. Contact our office today at 1 (800) 680-1717 and schedule an appointment to discuss what makes sense for you and your loved ones.