A Solution for Resolutions

by Jane Silverman, Member Since 2012

Thinking back on New Year’s Eves past, I am happy to say I have been resolute in at least some of my resolutions. My lack of annual stick-to-it-ness, however, is chronic. While I did empty not one, but three storage units in 2019 (resolution #1), the rest of my well-intended resolutions were for naught. Mark your calendar: January 17 is Ditch New Year’s Resolution Day because after all, “resolutions are meant to be broken” (their words not mine). According to U.S. News & World Report, 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions fail by February. This does not bode well for Jane 2020, and I might add, statistically speaking, almost all of you.

THIS year will be different – or will it? Perhaps 2020s’ resolutions will stick with a little help from these friendly apps:

From Day One

For years, I have been meaning to write a journal chronicling our life, travels and adventures, like visiting the astonishing tomb in China of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and his buried Army of 8,000 terra cotta warriors; voyaging to Cuba on our boat and the warm welcoming people we met there; the heartwarming birth of new members of our extended family.

With the DayOne Journal dayoneapp.com, you can easily create a personal digital diary on your phone or computer to record your memories, bringing your words to life with uploaded photos, videos, drawings, and even voice recordings. You can even print it as a hardcover book when you are done (minus the voice recordings and videos of course). Go to settings when you open the app, then Support to find the Knowledge Base tab with tips and tutorials. 

Books, Books & More Books

Reading, reading and more reading is high on my list for 2020. The Libby app libbyapp.com puts your local public library at your fingertips (Ocean Reef’s library is private and not included). Borrow and enjoy free eBooks, eMagazines, audiobooks, and videos — if it’s on Kindle, then it’s very likely available for free on Libby. The app is easy to use and breaks down your search into categories including Hidden Treasures, Roaring 20s, Librarians’ Favorites, Delicious Reads, and more.

Stuff it

I plan on going into 2020 with a lot less “stuff” by streamlining and decluttering my life (and closets!). The RealReal app therealreal.com is the leader in authenticated luxury consignment; it accepts high-end women’s, men’s and children’s designer fashions, accessories, fine jewelry, watches, fine art, and even furniture and sells your valuables online for you (then sends you approximately 55-70% of the sale price). You can schedule an in-home pick-up, virtual consultation, visit one of their brick and mortar stores around the country, or opt to get a free shipping box and postage. Check their list of accepted designers and send your favorite “good stuff” to a new forever home. Call 1-800-215-0566 or visit their website for more info.

The Dreaded Diet Resolution

I confess – I lose all my mortal control for dieting the moment I step through the door to the Ocean Reef Seafood Buffet with its mountains of crab claws, lobster, shrimp, jars of caviar, and the resolution-crushing dessert bar. The MyFitnessPal app myfitnesspal.com wants to help – it has been around (and on my phone) for a while but it doesn’t work if you don’t use it (my Mike reminds me frequently). Log your exercise and food intake in its diary (search by name or scan the food’s barcode) and the app keeps you on track for your fitness and diet goals. This year WILL be different… maybe.

A New Year’s resolution is something that goes in one year

and out the other. – Anon