Resolution Resource

As we step into the new year, many of us are eager to embrace a fresh start and set new goals for ourselves.

For many people, the start of a new year marks an opportunity to reflect and think about where they would like to be in the future. We know New Year resolutions can create more pressure in your life so pick realistic goals!

According to a recent Forbes article, the top resolutions for 2024 include improving fitness, managing finances, enhancing mental health, and making more time for loved ones. In this blog, we will show you how Hillside Centre can help you turn these resolutions into reality!

New Year Resolution 1: Achieving a Healthier You

Work Out at Home 

Forbes reports that 48% of people want to improve their fitness this year. An expensive gym membership won’t necessarily help you get to your goal any faster.

Working out at home can be a highly effective approach to achieving your fitness goals. Firstly, it eliminates the time and effort spent commuting to and from a gym, making it easier to stick to a consistent workout routine. Additionally, home workouts offer greater flexibility in terms of timing, allowing you to fit exercise into your schedule more conveniently. 

Supplements can play a crucial role in supporting your health journey by providing essential nutrients that may be lacking in your diet.

• Sport Chek, Canadian Tire, Marshalls, and Walmart have a wide selection of workout gear. 
• Browse in-centre and make a list of what you need for that perfect home gym.
• Visit GNC for expert advice and quality products.

Understanding what motivates you in your fitness goals will help to achieve them. 

New Years Resolution 2: Healthy Eating

Fuel Your Fitness with a Balanced Diet

Not everyone may be enthusiastic about hitting the gym, and that’s perfectly fine. Some individuals may prefer to prioritize their health and well-being by focusing on diet and nutrition. A balanced and nutritious diet can significantly impact one’s overall health, energy levels, and weight management. By making healthy food choices and adopting a mindful eating approach, individuals can achieve their health goals without needing rigorous gym workouts. It’s essential to find a wellness strategy that suits your preferences and lifestyle, whether it’s centered around diet, exercise, or a combination of both.

• Try healthy lunch options like Booster Juice and Ono Poké & Grill to support your healthy eating goals.

New Years Resolution 3: Financial Wellness

Nurturing Financial Growth

According to Forbes, 38% of individuals are determined to improve their finances in 2024. One way to do this is by eliminating your reliance on your vehicle, BC Transit makes transportation a breeze. At Hillside we have five routes serving the shopping centre. If parting with your time behind the wheel is too much too soon for you, consider environmentally-friendly options like EVO Car Share or grab your bike and hit the road on one of Victoria’s bike-friendly routes. We are counting down the days until Spring when our Bike Valet will be back!

Meal planning can save you money by helping you buy groceries more efficiently, reduce food waste, and resist the temptation of eating out or ordering takeout regularly, ultimately leading to significant cost savings over time.

Achieving financial stability is one New Year’s Resolution that will help you the most in the long run. Whether your goals are saving for a post-secondary education or your dream vacation, talking to a financial specialist can ensure that you are setting yourself up for success and that your goals are achievable.

• Look into car-sharing programs like EVO Car Share (BCAA)
• Save money by meal prepping with groceries from Thrifty Foods and Walmart.
• Visit CIBC or Scotiabank to help you with your finances. 

New Years Resolution 4: Nurturing Your Mind and Soul

Find Balance 

Life is hectic! Stress, anxiety, and pressure flood into all parts of life.  Practicing mindfulness means doing everything you can to be grateful for what you have in the moment, where you are in life, and who you are right now. 

Explore the benefits of journaling! Keeping track of things, events, and your emotions through writing can help improve your mental and physical wellness. 

Make 2024 the year you finally permit yourself time to indulge in spending time on your hobbies. This is a great self-care practice as doing what brings us joy can be the ultimate in nurturing your mind and soul.

Our days are very busy and it can be difficult to prioritize spending time with loved ones. Make it a priority to carve out that one-on-one time. Spending time with loved ones can significantly impact your mental health. Plan a set day/time every month to meet up and enjoy a coffee or a leisurely mall stroll together at Hillside Centre.

We forget how important it is to get a good night’s sleep. Creating a plan to improve your sleep hygiene. Establishing a routine leading up to bedtime. How much sleep you need will depend on how much activity in your day. 

• Visit Bolen Books for a wide selection of books on mind and soul, plus find some beautiful journals to start your journey. 
• Grab a tea or coffee at Starbucks, Tim Horton’s, or Murchie’s Tea & Coffee and enjoy a stroll with a friend. 
• Not sure where to begin with your hobby exploration? Go talk to the staff at BC Hobbies and they can get you pointed in the right direction.
• Talk to the experts at QE Home to recommend a pillow that will help you achieve the perfect night’s sleep. 

Whether you’re looking to get fit, manage your finances, or nurture your mental health, our stores and services are here to support your journey. The big thing with resolutions is to not get overwhelmed. One thing at a time and before you know it you will have reached your goals. Make 2024 your best year yet with Hillside Centre!