A Fresh Start: Setting Goals That Stick

"NEW YEAR, NEW POSSIBILITIES"

     As the last page of the calendar turns and a New Year begins, we are gifted a gentle reminder that it is never too late to dream, grow, or try something new.  January invites us to pause, reflect, and look ahead with hope.  For many, this is a time to set resolutions, or simple intentions that bring joy, purpose, and a sense of well-being.

    Whether it's taking up a new hobby, reconnecting with old friends, making time for wellness, or finding small moments of gratitude each day, the New Year offers countless opportunities to embrace positive changes.  No matter your age, there is always room for fresh beginnings.

Let's step into this year together, with optimism and a celebration of all the possibilities ahead.

    “Setting Resolutions That Truly Stick—Let’s Make This Year Different.”

     When setting resolutions, it is important to align your goals with realistic expectations.  After all, the New Year should inspire motivation- not frustration.   One way to set yourself up for success is by using the SMART formula, which encourages goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. 

"Start Where You Are-Grow From There."

     By choosing goals that are both meaningful and manageable, you’re more likely to enjoy the journey and celebrate each accomplishment along the way. Whether you’re striving for better health, deeper connections, or simply more joy in your daily life, a thoughtful approach can make all the difference. Let’s take a closer look at the SMART formula to help guide your success.

• Specific:  Define exactly what you want to achieve.
• Measurable: Include metrics to track progress.
• Achievable: Set realistic objectives that challenge without overwhelming you.
• Realistic:  Goals should be feasible and suited to the individual's health and lifestyle. 
• Time-Bound: Each goal should have a specific timeline or deadline.  This creates a commitment.

     By keeping your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-Bound, you set yourself up for a year of purpose and progress. When your aspirations align with your abilities and values, each step forward becomes more meaningful—and much more attainable. As you move into the new year with clarity and confidence, remember that even small, steady efforts can lead to significant and lasting change.

"Reflect. Serve. Remember The Dream."

     This theme of purposeful action brings us to an important moment we observe each January: Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Dr. King dedicated his life to meaningful, measured steps toward justice, equality, and unity—principles that continue to inspire progress today. As we honor his legacy, we are reminded that positive change often begins with a clear vision, a determined spirit, and the courage to take that very first step.

     The journey to how Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a Federal Holiday was a remarkable one, spanning 28 years from his assassination to full national recognition.   Although  King was tragically assassinated in Memphis in 1968, it wasn't until 1976 that the idea of honoring him with a holiday began gaining widespread attention.  MLK was a powerful yet controversial figure due to his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement, and several attempts to establish a Federal Holiday initially failed. 

     While individual states began observing the day as early as 1973, efforts at the federal level stalled.  Even with President Carter's endorsement, the bill lacked sufficient support to pass.  It ultimately took persistent grassroots organizing from labor unions, civil rights advocates, and King's own family to shift the momentum.

     A notable boost came from Stevie Wonder's hit song "Happy Birthday,"  which became an anthem for the movement and helped galvanize public support.

    Finally, on November 2, 1983, President Reagan signed the bill into law, officially establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a Federal Holiday.  The first national observance took place on January 20, 1986.  Today, MLK Day continues to be celebrated annually on the third Monday in January, honoring King's legacy and lifelong fight for justice and equality.

Sources:

• Setting Health Goals for Seniors in the New Year by Membership Representative
• New Year, New Horizons:  Goal-Setting for Older Adults by Karen Midyet
• The History of Martin Luther King Jr Day by Zack Yanowitz

“Start The Year With A Good Book, A Great Film, and A Fresh Perspective.”

Winter invites us to slow down, reflect, and find comfort in great storytelling.  This month's selection of books and films pairs perfectly with quiet evenings and cozy corners-stories that warm the heart even as the world outside turns cold.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey-Set in 1920s Alaska, this enchanting novel follows a couple who, heartbroken by their inability to have a child, move north seeking a new beginning. In a moment of whimsy, they build a little girl out of snow… only to later glimpse a mysterious young girl darting through the trees. Could their snow child have truly come to life? This beautifully written tale blends folklore, hardship, and hope in a way that lingers long after the last page.

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah-This novel combines the past and present historical events.  It is about two sisters who try to unravel a family history of secrets and emotional scars.  It is a powerful story filled with love, betrayal, and forgiveness.

Martin Luther King Jr: (Civil Rights Movement) by Hourly History-The life of Martin Luther King Jr. was painfully short, yet profoundly impactful. Guided by non-violent direct action and the principles of Christian love, King emerged as one of the most influential leaders of the civil rights movement in the United States. A devoted husband, father, pastor, and advocate for justice, he carried a message of hope from the pulpit to the streets—ultimately helping to reshape the nation and inspire the world.

   A new year brings new stories to savor. From the pages we turn to the movies we watch, each one offers a chance to reflect and reconnect. After enjoying this month’s reads, cozy up with films that highlight the beauty of family, gratitude, and togetherness.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

 A Man Called Otto-A family moves in next door to a grumpy old widower named Otto Anderson.  Otto meets his match in a quick-witted pregnant woman named Marisol, leading to an unlikely friendship that turns his world upside down. 

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe-Siblings Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter step through a magical wardrobe and find the land of Narnia. There, they discover a charming, once peaceful kingdom that has been plunged into eternal winter by the evil White Witch, Jadis. Aided by the wise and magnificent lion, Aslan, the children lead Narnia into a spectacular, climactic battle to be free of the Witch's glacial powers forever.

The Revenant: Amid the untamed, snow-covered Missouri wilderness, skilled hunter Hugh Glass and his son Hawk lead a daring expedition into the unknown territories of the fierce Arikara tribe. However, their challenging journey takes a disastrous turn when a ferocious grizzly bear mauls Glass, leaving him clinging desperately to life. To his dismay, his fellow hunters abandon him, leaving him alone to face the formidable forces of nature and the deadly perils of this inhospitable land. Now, with nothing but his unyielding determination to survive, Glass must summon all his strength and fortitude to stay alive and seek vengeance against those who betrayed him.

We would love to hear any book or movie recommendations you may have.

 “This Birthday Is A Celebration Of The Many Ways You Uplift And Inspire Our Community.”

              TBA

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 TBA

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