New Year, New You?

Let’s talk about resolutions.

As we enter into the new year, I can’t help but reflect on the annual ritual of setting New Year’s resolutions. Like many of you, losing weight, saving money, and being more creative are at the top of my list. But let’s face it: resolutions often have the lifespan of the Times Square Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve. Still, we try again because every attempt holds hope, and hope keeps us moving forward.

Over the years, I've found that resolutions work best when they’re realistic and easy to manage. Instead of setting rigid goals like “avoiding sugar,” I aim for little shifts, like eating more mindfully or trying a new recipe each week. Resolutions tied to creativity are my favorite — things like making more art, taking better photographs, or taking that workshop at the art center I've wanted to take. This year, I’m also focusing on deepening connections, whether it’s calling my friends more or spending time with my family. There’s no time like the present.

While resolutions are all about change, it’s the constants in life that truly ground me. These little anchors—coffee in my favorite mug, the sound of a favorite record, or the comfort of my favorite pillow—make the chaos of life manageable. They don’t need improvement; they’re already perfect. As we head into this next chapter, I’m holding on to the things that make life steady and sweet. Because while change is exciting, some things—thankfully—never change.

Happy New Year!

Chris Pugh is the editor of the Advocate-News and Mendocino Beacon. He can be reached at chrispugh@advocate-news.com.