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People make ridiculously difficult commitments every calendar year. Resolutions that are doomed to fail before they even start. While they’re built on good intentions, the difficulty curve of a long-term goal is far steeper than short to-dos you can do in short order.
Below are a few things you should do in 2011 to ensure there’s both excitement and personal development.

To-do 1: Go on holiday

People who work very hard have enviable commitment and desire to succeed. The problem is burnout is real, and creativity and fatigue are inversely proportional. Start saving up money right now and make sure you go on holiday, preferably abroad, some time this year still.

To-do 2: Walk more

If you live in the developed world, most urban and suburban areas are so beautiful, it’s a pity we don’t explore them more. One thing you should do in 2011 is embrace pedestrian culture, opting to walk if you can go without commuting or your own personal transport. Not only is this easier to achieve than a long-term diet and exercising regime, it makes for a solid workout as well as a way to explore your home better.

To-do 3: Spend more time with your family

If you have a family, there is no such thing as spending too much time at home. The point is if you’re home, you’re likely with the ones you love, and when you go out, taking them along is a good way of connecting with them better. Make spending time around those you love one of your main things to do in 2011.

To-do 4: Give up one vice

We all have dodgy habits. Some of us have more than one. One of the things to do in 2011 is giving up at least one of your vices. Smoking is usually the best, since it’s an expensive habit. A clever short-term trick is to have one day a week you do not indulge in your vice at all. That’ll leave you with more money to buy other things you may have been eyeing, but have been unable to afford.

Tags: exercise, family, holiday, walking