Issue 45: New Year’s Resolutions, As Told By Fan GIFs

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Congratulations! We’ve made it to 2021. As is the case every January, the problems of the previous year have magically disappeared, and this year will be the best one yet.

This is also about the time we launch our New Year’s resolutions. I often struggle with these, because too often I’ll be vague with them. Yes, I’d love to “exercise more” or “eat better,” but without concise, actionable goals, my chances of completing them are about as good as my chances of making the NBA (8%, tops).

Luckily, we’ve got plenty of basketball fans that can help us out. Let’s see what they’ve got in terms of New Year’s resolutions advice.

Try Some Home Cooking

That “eat healthier” goal is something a lot of us strive for, not just in the new year. And one of the best ways to eat healthier? Trying some new dishes at home.

When you order from a restaurant, they give you about four servings and 15 times the sodium disguised as one small plate. That’s not helping anybody.

Instead, why not give cooking at home a whirl? You could either pick up a cookbook (I like Mark Bittman’s How to Cook Everything) or just dip your toes in an online recipe.

Plus, cooking a meal for yourself is just so dang rewarding!

Don’t Be Afraid to Stand Up for Yourself

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that we are a resilient bunch. And while I would hope we’re generally being nicer to our fellow humans, sometimes life throws you a situation that you simply can’t take lying down.

In those cases, it’s okay to stand up for what you believe in. Let someone know they should, oh, I don’t know, put their mask over their nose. Or that they’re stepping on your foot and slowly crushing your metatarsals.

You deserve to be heard! So make it happen.

Show a Little Emotion

Another positive that came out of 2020? It seemed like we paid more attention to our mental health. From virtual therapy appointments to understanding that yes, sometimes it’s okay to just have a day where you’re totally drained, we did our best to empathize with others from a mental and emotional perspective.

Did your team get a terrible call against them? Did you really want that promotion and someone else got it? Did you try some of that home cooking and now your entire kitchen is currently on fire?

Well, first, call the fire department. Then, let loose with a little emotion. Shed some tears or shriek a cry of despair. Whatever it takes — it’s a cathartic way to be in touch with your feelings.

Take Your Sunglasses Off Indoors

Sometimes, you just need a really easy resolution to get the ball rolling.

This shouldn’t be hard. If you’re inside, keep your sunglasses off. Not only does it look absurd, but you’re also going to bump into a ton of stuff.

And I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22—er…the objects around my house have a lot of sharp edges. It’s not worth the risk.

Get Your Dance On

Whether you can shake it like a Polaroid picture or not, dancing is a heck of a good time. It’s also super beneficial for you. It releases all those fun endorphins, challenges your brain, improves your cognitive functions, and is a great aerobic workout.

Plus, with so much time being spent at home, you may find yourself needing to bust a move simply to keep your spirits up.

The next time you’re folding laundry, watching Shark Tank, or doing the dishes, take a few moments to get your dance on. Just don’t try adding any juggling into the mix.

The Betting Area

A new year brings tons of new games!

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