We make them, keep them for a while and then, poof, they’re usually a distant memory by Valentine’s Day: New Year’s resolutions. It’s happened to all of us. But, rather than feel bad about it this year, I’ve decided to make a list of 10 lifestyle improvements to stick year round. I think this will be more effective than trying to radically change myself by January 1. (Phew, I can feel the pressure lifting already.)

1. Drive safer: In 2011, I blew out my car horn. My husband jokes it’s because I use it too much, but he’s probably not wrong. Driving in the city can be stressful on a good day. In 2012 though, I plan to take a few more deep breaths before laying down the horn; if needed, I’ll even visualize my sweet grandmother driving the car ahead of me so that I think twice about a barrage of honks. Safer, calmer drivers are good for everyone.
2.  Zumba! Nearly 3,000 fitness professionals were surveyed for the “Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2012” and guess what? Zumba (Latin-dance cardio) continues to be a huge trend. I haven’t jumped on the bandwagon myself, but I have an aunt who teaches this type of class so I’m long overdue for a try!
3. Enjoy nature: Living in the city can leave us feeling disconnected from nature sometimes. Getting outside for a quiet morning walk, all bundled up, or skiing after a fresh snowfall can leave us feeling more connected to it all—much better than being cooped up until spring!
4.  Family time: Once a week, no matter what’s going on in our lives, I plan to reserve one night a week to turn off all phones, computers and televisions. Break out the board games or stay in and cook as a family. The point is to be together, enjoying time as a unit.
5.  Donate: Recently I cleared out my closet and lightened the load. What I couldn’t use anymore I donated to a local shelter and my husband did the same. It felt good, both to thin out our wardrobes and give back to the community. We’re making this a regular thing for 2012.
6. Find a new passion: A new passion for me has been baking on Sunday afternoons; so relaxing and comforting to smell the goodness coming out of my oven. Mmm mmm. I plan to continue this into the New Year, but with healthier versions of old favourites, like brownies and cookies.
7. Core training: And yet another fit-trend for the New Year, getting your core (low back, abdominals and obliques) in top shape. Entire classes are devoted to core training now and the results are positive: improved posture, standing taller, feeling strong and looking leaner.
8. Eat when you’re hungry: Do you find that hours can go by between meals when you’re busy? I do. Restoring order and consistency to meals is up there on my list of lifestyle improvements.
9.  Quality sleep: All the research I’ve done this year on the importance of sleep points to how we are the best version of ourselves when we’re rested. Rather than just sleep-in on the weekends to make up for lost sleep during the week, organize a bedtime ritual to get the sleep you need. Being rested helps you support your body’s natural defenses and promotes energy and better moods.
10. Focus: I will not multi-task. I will not multi-task. I will not multi-task… We live in a world that says doing “more” is better, but for 2012, I’m going to try and do just one thing at a time: I vow to not have conference calls while I’m cooking or typing. Could you use a little slowing down, too?

What are your 2012 Lifestyle Improvements?