Every new year, I make these grand, lofty goals and I promise myself that though I failed last year, THIS year will be totally different. It's 2014: Year of Alex. I'm going to exercise my body and brain, be productive and start volunteering. Maybe I'll even learn a new language. Of course, this lasts about 5 minutes and then I'm back to where I was: on the couch, binge watching Netflix and my Spanish language course book is sitting, rejected, beside me. 

The problem with my new year resolutions is that they aren't realistic. I take on way too much and I end up becoming overwhelmed and quitting them all together. This year however, I decided to take a new approach: small changes that I can easily achieve that fit into my lifestyle, as is. None of this 'expect to be a Spanish master by next spring' nonsense. Because ladies, my Netflix isn't going anywhere and I wouldn't have it any other way. 

If you're feeling me, then I came up with 5 simple ways to start injecting resolutions into your life. And because they're so easy, with only a little effort, you'll be able to keep them up all year (and hopefully life) long. 

#1 If your resolution is to exercise more:


If you're like me, you hate exercise because it's hard and not fun and it's boring as all heck. The solution to these problems is to find a form of exercise that gets you pumped up. For me it's dancing. Focusing on the steps and rhythm keeps my mind active. Plus when Queen Bey is blasting, I just can't help but twerk it out. You can also try dancing games (Just Dance for Wii) to help you keep motivated and it's even more fun when your BFF joins in.   

#2 If your resolution is to be more organized or clean: 


If you're a Messy Bessy, first thing's first: purge. Make it easy on yourself and have a rule: if you didn't use it last year, it goes. Simple. Next, instead of doing major clean ups every two weeks, try following this easy rule: if it takes two minutes, do it. You'd be surprised at how many tasks and errands only take a few minutes to do. That dish? Don't let it sit there. Take one minute of your time and just wash it. Future self will thank your past self. Then, start organizing. I find that cute filing cabinets and boxes entice me to keep up the good work. I also buy cute notebooks and journals to write everything down so I don't forget. Check out these options: 


1. Kate Spade Stroke of Genius Large Notepad (C$10.00)

2. Tutti Frutti Gel Pens (C$9.50) 

3. 2014 Live Simply Planner (C$10.50)

4. Poppin Tape Dispenser (C$12.00) 

#3 If your resolution is to eat better: 


Start small. Lifestyle changes don't happen overnight. First, try drinking more water. You'll be surprised at how hydration helps keep your head in the game. Keep a water bottle on hand at all times to make it a habit. If you're bored by water, try jazzing it up with flavours. Not a fan of salads? Find a veggie or fruit you like and stock up. I'm not a salad person but I love argula and spinach greens, so I switch out iceberg for them and get some yummy additions to make it more interesting. Cutting out sugar entirely is a major change so instead, why not cut out your go-to soft drink or better yet, only have it on special occasions. 

#4 If your resolution is to exercise your brain:


You want to read more or learn something new? Set time aside, every day, week or even month to practice your new hobby. Instead of reading your Facebook feed before bed, pick up that book. Got thirty minutes on a Saturday? Pick up that guitar instead of the remote. What have you always wanted to learn? Try taking a class on it or look to online resources for learning as well. The important part is to make and stick to a schedule. If you lapse - no worries, don't beat yourself up. Just pick it up again the next day. 

#5 If your resolution is to take better care of your skin: 


Add a mask to the mix. Masks are the perfect way to quickly hydrate or detox your skin. If you're skincare regime is a little lacklustre, masks are great for deep cleaning and for making sure your skin gets the moisture it needs: two major skincare concerns. They typically only take 10 minutes and you can wear them while you chill and netflix binge! 
  
So, what are your resolutions chicks? How are you working them out?