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Peace of Mind Post January 2024
Mastering Change How to Craft Resolutions Built to Endure
As we welcome 2024, we focus on change and new beginnings. The start of a new year inspires us to set resolutions that fuel positive change. Some of us set out to put a new health or workout plan into action, while others intend to achieve a professional goal. We may aspire to spend more quality time with our families or to add books to our reading list. However, it’s no secret that maintaining these resolutions can be a daunting task. Did you know that the second Friday of every January is known as “Quitters Day”? It’s a day when many people statistically give up on the goals they set. So, how can we break free from this cycle and foster lasting change? As I write this, just before we ring in the new year, I’m listening to an audiobook called “How to Change: The Science of Getting From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be” by Katy Milkman. It offers invaluable insights into planning ahead and setting oneself up for success. One key takeaway is the importance of building rewards into our plans, creating a positive reinforcement loop that sustains our commitment. Tips for Resolutions That Endure Set Realistic Goals Begin by setting achievable goals. Unrealistic resolutions can quickly become discouraging. Break down larger goals into manageable steps, making progress tangible.
extend the lifespan of our commitments. Remember, the journey to positive change is not a sprint but a marathon, and pacing ourselves is crucial. Mindset Another component of effective change is mindset. I used to dislike change, and think all change was stress inducing. But a few years ago, while riding my young horse, Tiny, I had a revelation that changed the way I think about change. If you don’t change, you don’t grow. It sounds very simple, but it completely rewired my brain when it comes to change. I have experienced many changes in the last few years, including moving my home and relocating the office. In 2024, I will change my name from Anderson back to my maiden name, McCormick, and we will take the first steps towards physically expanding the office. Change comes to all of us, and we can choose to resist it or embrace it. I send warm wishes to each of you for 2024. May this year be a journey marked by growth, resilience, and fulfillment. Here’s to a year of lasting resolutions, personal triumphs, and the merry pursuit of your dreams. Happy New Year!
Focus on the Why Understand the underlying motivations behind your resolutions. Connecting with the “why” adds a meaningful layer to your goals, reinforcing your commitment during challenging times. Build in Rewards Katy Milkman’s advice rings true — reward yourself along the way. Acknowledge milestones, no matter how small, and celebrate your achievements. Positive reinforcement strengthens your resolve. Create a Support System Share your resolutions with friends, family, or a support group. Having a network that encourages and uplifts you significantly contributes to your success. Track Progress Keep a record of your journey. Whether through a journal, app, or visual aids, tracking progress enhances accountability and offers a visual representation of your accomplishments. Adjust and Adapt Life is dynamic, and circumstances may change. Be flexible in adjusting your resolutions as needed. Adaptability is a powerful tool in sustaining long-term change. Quitters Day shouldn’t be an inevitability. By approaching resolutions with thoughtful consideration and implementing strategies for success, we can defy the odds and
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Tiny, the horse who changed my mind about change.
As the holiday season concludes, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on your estate plan. Life is dynamic, and circumstances can change — relationships evolve, health fluctuates, and priorities shift (and much of that becomes apparent during family and social gatherings). Ensuring your estate plan is aligned with your current needs and wishes is responsible and considerate. Evolving Relationships Family dynamics can undergo significant changes over time. The people you designated as beneficiaries, executors, or guardians in your estate plan may no longer be the most suitable choices. Holiday gatherings often reveal shifts in family relationships or the emergence of new bonds that may warrant adjustments in your estate planning documents. Changing Health Circumstances Health is a top consideration when crafting an estate plan. After spending time with loved ones during the holidays, you may become aware of health changes affecting family members. Updating your estate plan allows you to ensure that the necessary provisions, such as health care directives or powers of attorney, are in place to address potential future scenarios. New Assets or Liabilities The acquisition of new assets or the accumulation of debts may necessitate modifications to your estate plan. Whether The Value of an Updated Estate Plan Peace of Mind, Pre
You could easily miss a lot happening above our atmosphere if you didn’t stay up late or watch the news beforehand. Once the sun sets tonight, look up at the sky. As long as you’re not in an area with heavy light pollution, you should be able to see brilliant constellations. On some nights, you may even see more than you expected. No, we’re not talking about UFOs or little green men but about naturally occurring phenomena deep in outer space. Several unique events take place in 2024. Here are the highlights you don’t want to miss! Meteor Showers Seeing a shooting star is magical, but witnessing a meteor shower is awe-inspiring. Meteor showers occur when interstellar dust particles enter our planet’s atmosphere at high speeds. The first meteor shower of the year is the Quadrantids Meteor Shower, which should take place a few days after New Year’s, but if you miss it, you won’t have to wait long to see another. April, May, July, August, October, and November should also have meteor showers. Be aware that if the moon shines too brightly, you likely won’t be able to see the meteors. Saturn Looking at other planets can be fascinating but not always possible, especially without a telescope. Thankfully, you won’t need a telescope to see Saturn and its rings on Sept. 8. Once the sun sets, head outside and look to the east. You should see a bright yellow star that’s not usually visible. That’s Saturn! Total Lunar Eclipse You won’t have to wait until night to see this rare occurrence. On April 8, the moon will pass perfectly between the Sun and Earth, creating an eclipse. Residents of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine will see a total eclipse for only a handful of minutes. The rest of the country will still see an eclipse, but it won’t be as extreme. The next total lunar eclipse won’t occur until August 2044, so get out there and see it this year! Just be sure to wear protective eyewear! KEEP YOUR EYES TO THE SKY Explore the Celestial Highlights of 2024
Puzzle Time!
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The Healing Power of Laughter Laughter is incredible — it has the power to transform our spirits and enhance our well-being. As we celebrate Global Belly Laugh Day on Jan. 24, it’s an opportune moment to explore the profound impact of laughter on our health and happiness. Betty, my donkey, is a quirky, lovable character whose antics never fail to make me laugh. She lives by her own rules, navigating life with a carefree spirit that is both endearing and amusing. Her unpredictable and goofy behavior keeps things interesting. I could sit and watch her roam the field for hours. Her personality is one in a million! Laughter as Medicine Numerous studies have highlighted the physiological benefits of laughter. When we laugh, our bodies release endorphins, the feel- good hormones that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Laughter has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress levels, and enhanced immune function. Stress Reduction In the hustle and bustle of daily life, stress can accumulate, taking a toll on both our mental and physical health. Laughter, whether it’s a hearty belly laugh or a subtle chuckle, acts as a natural stress reliever, triggering the relaxation response and lowering cortisol levels. Connection and Bonding Laughter is a universal language that transcends barriers and fosters connection. Sharing laughter with others creates bonds and strengthens relationships. Through exchanging jokes with friends, enjoying a funny movie with family, or simply reveling in the comedic antics of a four-legged friend like Betty, the shared experience of laughter deepens our connections with those around us. Emotional Resilience Life’s journey is peppered with challenges, and laughter serves as a tool for building emotional resilience. The ability to find humor in difficult situations can provide a fresh perspective and enable us to navigate challenges with greater optimism. Betty, with her whimsical escapades, exemplifies the art of embracing life’s uncertainties with a lighthearted spirit. On Global Belly Laugh Day, take a moment to embrace the infectious spirit of laughter. Whether it’s prompted by a playful donkey, a humorous joke, or a shared moment with loved ones, laughter is a precious gift that contributes to our overall health and happiness.
esent and Future it’s a new property, a business venture, or changes in financial responsibilities, reviewing and updating your plan ensures that your assets are distributed according to your current wishes and that your loved ones are protected from unforeseen liabilities. Legacy and Charitable Intentions Your perspectives on legacy and charitable giving may evolve over time. Perhaps you’ve become passionate about a particular cause or wish to include new charitable organizations in your estate plan. By updating your plan, you can align your philanthropic intentions with your current priorities. Legal and Regulatory Changes Laws and regulations governing estate planning can undergo revisions. Staying informed about these changes and updating your estate plan accordingly ensures that your arrangements remain in compliance with current legal standards. Failure to address legal modifications may render certain provisions of your plan legally ineffective. Peace of Mind Perhaps the most significant reason to update your estate plan is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your wishes are accurately reflected in legally binding documents can alleviate stress for both you and your loved ones. Regularly reviewing
your estate plan demonstrates a proactive commitment to preserving your legacy.
Cheesy Chicken Chowder
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
Ingredients
• 3 cups chicken broth • 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
• 1/4 tsp pepper • 1/4 cup butter, cubed • • 2 cups whole milk • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese • 2 cups cooked and diced chicken 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup diced carrots • 1 cup diced celery • 1/2 cup diced onion • 1 1/2 tsp salt
Directions
1. In a 4-quart saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Reduce heat and add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes or until vegetables are tender. 2. In another medium saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour until smooth. Slowly stir in milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat, then add cheese, stirring until melted. Add the cheesy mixture and chicken to the broth and heat it thoroughly!
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Inside 1 The Key to Sustaining Resolutions in 2024 2 A Preview of 2024’s Best Celestial Events
The Importance of Updating Your Estate Plan Cheesy Chicken Chowder The Joy of Laughter Innovative Ideas to Cut Your Vacation Costs
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take advantage of early bird Innovative Ideas to Cut Your Vacation Costs 5 Proven Strategies for Cost-Effective Travel rates for flights and hotels.
Travel during off-peak seasons. Traveling during off-peak seasons will save you money on flights, hotels, and activities. You also benefit from less crowded destinations and shorter queues for popular tourist attractions. This is a win-win for travelers seeking a budget-friendly and less-crowded travel experience. Use local grocery stores and pack snacks. Another way to save money while you travel is by shopping at local grocery stores for snacks and meals rather than eating out for every meal. This gives you a taste of local businesses and culture. Packing snacks can also help you avoid buying overpriced food at airports or touristy areas. By implementing these tips into your travel planning and experience, you can stretch your dollar further without compromising the quality of your trip. Happy traveling!
Cancel unnecessary subscriptions. Before you travel, review your monthly subscriptions like gym memberships, streaming services, or magazines you won’t use while you’re away. Temporarily canceling these subscriptions can free up extra cash for your travel fund.
Traveling can be an enriching and fulfilling experience, but it can also be costly. Many people dream of
exploring new destinations, but financial constraints can be limiting. Fortunately, we’re here to share five practical tips to help you save money while enjoying your trip. Plan and budget ahead. One of the most effective ways to save money is by planning and budgeting your trip in advance. Create a comprehensive budget that includes airfare, accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Having a budget lets you track your expenses and helps you avoid overspending. You can also
Look for discounts and offers. Keep an eye out for discounts, offers, and coupons that can help you save money on activities, dining, and shopping. Websites like Groupon and LivingSocial offer various deals that could be useful during your trip. These websites often provide discounted tickets to attractions, cheaper dining options, and even discounted rates for experiences like spa treatments or outdoor activities.
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