res·o·lu·tion /rɛzəˈluːʃ(ə)n/ (thefreedictionary.com)
n.
1. The state or quality of being resolute; firm determination.
2. A resolving to do something.
3. A course of action determined or decided on.
Do people still make New Year's resolutions? More importantly, perhaps, is the question: do people manage to keep them? One study in 2007 by the University of Bristol found a failure rate of 88% (although it suggests that setting small and measurable goals has more success: instead of "exercise more", you could instead aim to "go for a walk twice per week").
Frequently, goals include: improving physical well-being, improving mental well-being, making new friends, improving careers, and volunteering. This is great news for me, as I can tackle multiple goals with one fell swoop: I will continue to be involved in volunteering within nature conservation! I've been really impressed with the variety of benefits from volunteering. For someone committed to working in nature conservation, volunteering is a good way to keep skills up to date while between paid conservation jobs. There is the feel-good factor from helping to conserve wildlife and valuable green spaces. And there is an emerging body of evidence which points to the range of health benefits from "green exercise" or "ecotherapy", from reducing stress and feeling good to prolonging your life and improving your fitness - plus many people find it easier to keep up outdoor exercise such as walking or conservation tasks than exercising in a gym! I've also found volunteering to be a great way to see new places, encounter wildlife, and make new friends.
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So, how have I been tackling my New Year's resolution so far? Take a look at the next post to read about how I've been working with TCV to achieve my aims for 2014!What resolutions do you have for 2014? Will you be making it a greener year? Why not comment with your New Year's resolutions, or tweet to @TorHeenan!
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