A 2019 Greeting from our President and CEO
Greetings and Happy New Year!
What will you be doing when the clock strikes twelve on December 31st? You may either be fast asleep or ringing in the New Year with the world with cheer and wishes of a very Happy New Year. For some of us, the event will be no more than a change of the calendar. For others, the New Year symbolizes the beginning of a better tomorrow. So, no matter what you will be doing at the “bewitching hour”, you may be considering making some New Year’s resolutions. Let me suggest a few simple resolutions that are excerpted from an article by Shane Robinson, a contributor to Forbes magazine that if done reflectively may have dramatic effects on your health and happiness:
1) Smile more. The simple act of smiling can make you happier and healthier, even if it is a forced one. This result occurs for two main reasons. According to social psychologists, smiling activates the release of dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin, neurotransmitters that help reduce stress and develop positive emotions. While your brain usually controls your muscles (i.e. smiling!) can influence your brain. The brain senses the flexion of our facial muscles and, determining that we are happy about something, starts to make us feel happier. Smiling is also contagious. Practice smiling at others and see what happens…..often than not, people smile back at you.
2) Maintain a health and fitness regimen. The impact of regular physical exercise is widely acknowledged. In addition to reducing stress, fighting disease, and improving your mood, energy and sleep, getting regular exercise and eating healthier also make you a person other people want to be around.
3) Schedule personal time. We all schedule our days with appointments and other activities. However, setting aside time to participate in hobbies or just lazy times, makes us all more productive.
4) Do not commit to things you cannot do. Do not make commitments to things outside of your comfort zone. If you cannot make it to dinner with your friend next week, just say you cannot make it and set up another time. Do not overextend yourself.
5) Use your calendar. It is important to use your calendar to stay organized and be sure you do not over commit.
In the words of T.S. Eliot, one of the twentieth century’s major poets,
For last year’s words belong to last year’s language and next year’s words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning.
May you and all of your loved ones enjoy a very Happy and Healthy New Year filled with all good things that make you smile!
Sincerely,
Patricia W. Savage
President/CEO
