Studies have shown that people who make New Year’s resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than those who don’t make them, so if you’d like to focus on improving your love life in 2012, you’re already on the fast-track to success. But did you know that sticking to the most common New Year’s goals can indirectly give your love luck a much-needed boost? It’s true! Here’s how…
- Resolution #1: Kick the habit. If cigarettes are the vice you’re determined to stub out this year, here’s why doing so could result in a healthier, more active dating life: in a recent Happen poll of nearly 30,000 men and women, 58% said that smoking was an “absolute dating deal-breaker.” Giving up the booze, but stumped on how to socialize without it? Try one of these fun, alcohol-free ideas for your next date: miniature golf, a gallery tour/walk, go kayaking or enjoy a moonlit stroll outdoors.
- Resolution #2: Become physically healthier. If you’re single and looking to lose a few pounds, we’ve got health-conscious date ideas — like visiting the local farmer’s market and cooking what you buy for dinner together, taking dance lessons, volunteering to walk dogs at the local animal shelter or play a competitive sport (volleyball, tennis, racquetball, bowling) together. If you’re coupled up, commit to a workout program that includes your partner to reap the added reward of improving your vital relationship skills as you’re both getting physically fit.
- Resolution #3: Clean up the clutter/organize your stuff. Don’t just make room for love in your heart — clean out those closets, tidy up your living area and make a welcoming space for a new significant other in every room of your home. If a bedroom cluttered with laundry, piles of paperwork, or photos of your exes is dragging you down, now’s the time to organize your place into a cozy date-night retreat for two.
Now that you’ve got even more reasons to make them stick, tell us: What New Year’s resolutions did you make that we missed, and what steps have you taken to follow through with them this year? We’d love to hear about the new, more positive you, so tell us in the comments below.
