For a Better 2025
Here we are once again, ushering in a new year full of uncertainties, dreams fulfilled, and times to share with friends and family.
After an extremely tumultuous presidential race, there will undoubtedly be many people who will seem bitter, dejected, and even, perhaps, fearful of what lies ahead in our country. Adversely, there are those of us who are excited and fulfilled about the future. It is with hope this article can help ease the burden for whoever needs it, even ever so slightly, and lift them up to create in themselves the best 2025 that they can possibly have. Here is a list of promising New Year's resolutions for us, the citizens of New Orleans, but also, most importantly, that of the United States of America.
First off, more than likely, we all want to achieve optimal health for ourselves, so it comes as no surprise that the most popular resolution year after year is that of losing weight. As we delve into the second quarter of our century, why not let this be the year to make a fresh start? No one will care that you didn't follow through with all of those bygone New Year's resolutions.
2025 will be the year to put a little extra effort in, whether it be preparing more healthy meals, eating less fast food, or beginning an exercise routine. We owe it to ourselves to feel good about ourselves, and if that involves embarking on a regimen of good health, then—in the words of Sir Paul McCartney—by all means, "let it be." Maybe you'll also be inclined to participate in Dry January, the annual liver reset of which millions of people participate worldwide. Just remember that alcohol and calories are intertwined. You can follow down both paths symbiotically for ideal results.
With diets and lifestyle changes out of the way, we can also make it a point to truly see what our beautiful, historic city has to offer. Maybe you're not as young as you used to be. Perhaps you have arrived at a place where you are content to stay home more. The COVID-19 pandemic is undoubtedly responsible for a tremendous surge in us dreaded "homebodies" who never really venture out much anymore, even though all of that mess is long over.
Don't get discouraged. There is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying days or nights at home; however, when you no longer want to grab dinner or drinks with friends, it can have negative consequences on your mental health. For some suggested baby steps—go out to dinner once every week or two, or take in a show, concert, or one of those exciting festivals that you always wanted to check out but never did.
How about taking our wonderful NOLA attractions back from the tourists? It can be incredibly exhilarating to spend a day in the French Quarter, visiting shops, museums—including maybe the Museum of Death—and even a jazz club. Taste some real New Orleans cuisine. If you're a sports fan, then you can show some local spirit by seeing the Pelicans and the Saints play in person. If you're religious, consider visiting a place of worship. If you're simply spiritual, take some extra time to meditate. These just may be the changes you are looking for.
Do you like to read? Although a book has rarely been picked up anymore, there was a time where several novels were read by some while sitting on a neighbor's shaded carport in the two weeks following Hurricane Katrina—with the absence of television due to the extended power outage.
At present, it is very easy to get into a rut when the only reading you do is on a smartphone. A personal recommendation that is being put into practice: order a few books and plan on intellectually devouring them after the first of the year. It will be a great opportunity to put the cellphones on silent, go to a quiet area of the house, and discover the pleasure of a good book and, perhaps, a glass of wine. You can even take reading further by joining a book club at a library or a coffeehouse, where you can interact with people who are interested in the same things as you—namely whatever recommended book that is being discussed. Joining and being a member of a book club is one possible way to meet some people who could end up being very dear friends.
Lastly, let's make 2025 the year that we spend less time within the toxicity of social media and more time in person with the people we love, à la learning from Harry Chapin's "Cat's in the Cradle." If you're unhappy where you work, now is the time to apply for that better job. Most importantly, make a resolution to do whatever makes you happy. In the words of one of those ancient soap operas, we only have "one life to live," so it's best to make it count. Happy New Year.
