To resolve, or not to resolve

Maricopa resident Cathy Barnella said her New Year’s resolution is not to make resolutions.

“I started making a resolution to not make New Year’s resolutions many years ago because I found that making a resolution was great for the next 30 days, then depression set in for the next 11 months,” Barnella said. “Now with no unrealistic expectations, I can relax and take what the year brings, whether it be joy or sorrow.”

Still, it’s estimated that 40 percent to 45 percent of American adults make New Year’s resolutions – and about 20 percent of those actually keep them.

InMaricopa.com Facebook followers shared their resolutions:

“My New Year’s resolution is to learn something new, get back to blogging, stay organized, and go back to sending out cards for birthdays.” – Morgan Vanderwall

“I have three this year: 1) to get my self in shape to run my first 5K 2) to study hard enough to earn another computer certification that will allow me to … 3) get a real job!” – James Valenzano

“55 lb loss by May 1.” – David Landers (No mean trick for a guy who broke eight bones in his ankle playing soccer at Pacana Park and now sports two plates and 23 pins).

“More sleep. My goal is 7-8 hours a night.” – Nicole Romo Garcia.

“This is my husband and mine’s first year together in five years that he has not been in the military, so I want us to spend time just enjoying life without the constant worry of him getting orders for Iraq. My second resolution is to complete our Crossfit Paleo/Primal 30 day challenge which starts in January. This will be a huge effort on my part since I love grains and pasta, so this is big for me, but knowing I have competition will help me stay on track. I am also training to attend this year’s Warrior Dash with other Crossfit team members on April 28.

“I've completed a 10K in 2010 and it felt great to accomplish that goal, but this time around I want to have some fun in the process and the Warrior Dash will be just that, FUN! I've realized that if I have something to work towards in the New Year that I am a lot more successful than if I just set out with no date and time to move towards. I think this is going to be a great year and I can't wait to get it started.” – Jennifer Faust