Tips to Keeping Five New Year’s Resolutions
It’s that time again—the time of year to wipe the slate clean, come up with resolutions, and vow to follow through with them. For once.
But we all know how hard that can be, so this year, why not give yourself some extra support? Mid-Continent Public Library (MCPL) has all the resources you need to kick-start your New Year’s resolutions (and keep them). Whether you want to get fit, save some money, further your career, spend more time with loved ones, or even start your own business, it doesn’t hurt to have a little extra help.
Grab your library card and check out how MCPL can help you tackle those top to-dos for 2017:
Resolution: Get fit and healthy.
How to keep it: After a season of holiday cookies, cold temperatures, and lots of quality time with the couch, it’s no surprise that getting in shape seems to be on everyone’s mind come January. But this year, you have a little extra help to make it happen—courtesy of MCPL.
If you want to get moving, attend one of the Library’s free yoga classes offered at a number of MCPL branches. After all, not having to pay for classes at a studio is just one more reason to grab your mat and get your flow on.
Can’t make it to the branch? No problem. Break a sweat without breaking the bank right in your living room; MCPL’s online resources include a series of workout videos and health classes you can stream without even leaving the house.
Better yet, MCPL can also help you transform your diet. After your workout, try making some of the resolution-friendly healthy recipes featured in the cookbooks accessible through the MCPL catalog. Library cardholders can also check out MCPL’s various free health and wellness programs held at local branches.
Resolution: Spend less and save more.
How to keep it: Ever swiped your credit card and had to pray the charge would go through? Checked your bank account on your phone before making a purchase? Overspent on a tax service? Had to Google what a 401(k) is?
We feel you—but we also think 2017 should be the year you finally figure out your finances. You won’t be alone, though. From learning how to create a budget with Excel to healthy meal planning without breaking the bank, MCPL’s personal finance programs and online resources can help make 2017 your year for (much-needed) wealth management. Prefer to study up on your own? Look through the MCPL catalog for finance books to help guide you through the process of achieving financial stability.
Those aren’t the only ways the Library can help you keep those hard-earned dollars where they belong (hint: in your wallet or bank account) this year. In fact, cardholders can save money just by using the library’s resources more frequently; instead of paying for newspaper subscriptions, magazines, or music services, you can access publications and music streaming for free with your MCPL library card. Want to see for yourself just how much the Library can save you? Check out MCPL’s library value calculator to add up your savings.
Resolution: Advance your career.
How to keep it: Do you want to change careers during 2017? Then you’ll want to check out MCPL’s employment and career guidance subject guide, a collection of the Library’s programs, online resources, vocational books, and recommended websites that can help you search for a new job. Whether you need a little extra help improving your online profile or need to create a resume from scratch, the Library can help you land your dream job in 2017.
Those seeking a new job aren’t the only ones who could benefit from some career development. The Library can also help professionals seeking a promotion, title change, or raise (can we get a “heck yeah?”). If you want to add some skills to your professional repertoire, check out the Library’s various online learning options, an extensive collection of top-quality courses in everything from marketing techniques to photography shutter speeds.
Resolution: Spend more time with friends and family.
How to keep it: Between online interactions, technological distractions, and a decreasing emphasis on regular family activities, it’s more important than ever to set aside dedicated time to spend with loved ones. Thankfully, the Library’s long roster of free programs for all ages provides the perfect opportunity for friends and family to come together; from taking the little ones to storytime to hearing a presentation from a noted author, there really is something for everyone on MCPL’s event calendar.
If you want a steadier commitment, grab an old friend and make some new ones at one of the many MCPL’s book groups.
Resolution: Start your own business.
How to keep it: If you’re an entrepreneur hoping to start your own business, don’t go another year without making it happen—get moving on your Next Big Thing in 2017. We know what you’re thinking: easier said than done. But with a little extra push and support from MCPL’s Square One Small Business Services team, you can (and should) make your business-owning dreams into a reality.
First things first—set up a meeting with one of the team’s business specialists, who can review the many ways the Library can help you launch or grow a business. These professionals can also help connect you to a range of resources to help your business thrive in today’s market and help you achieve your entrepreneurial aspirations once and for all. From creating a competitive or market analysis through the Library’s free online databases to attending one of MCPL’s many free business programs and connecting you to other local organizations that can offer additional support, MCPL’s small business assistance might just be the competitive advantage you need.
So, don’t leave your Library card to languish in your wallet this coming year! Vow to put it to work for you starting today. Don’t have an MCPL card? Sign up for one today and get ready to cross those resolutions off your list this year!