New year’s resolutions have been traced back to the ancient Romans and medieval eras. Read up on some of the local residents who have followed suit, as well as those who have chosen not to take on the annual tradition.
Kajal Deonarain (30) will be focusing all her efforts on securing a job. “I have completed a tourism diploma and I am now looking for a permanent job in the hospitality industry,” she said.
WITH the new year celebrations comes a time for reflecting on the past and planning for the future, which is often accompanied by the tradition of making new year’s resolutions.
New year’s resolutions have been traced back to the ancient Romans and medieval eras, where people made promises to their gods during January and the Christmas season. In modern times the annual tradition has become synonymous with failure.
A study conducted by psychologist, Richard Wiseman in 2007, indicated that 88 per cent of people fail at their annual promises despite feeling optimistic about achieving their resolutions.
His study also suggested that men were 22 per cent more likely to achieve their resolution if they set measurable goals, while women were 10 per cent more likely to succeed if they shared their goals with family and friends.
Despite the bleak odds suggested by the study many local residents have still decided to try and improve their lives with the start of the new year.
Mahadhew Singh (49), local children’s cricket team manager, said that his only resolution was to promote the children and the game. “It is all about the children,” he added.
William Coetzee (22) hopes to live healthier in 2015. “I want to be in the best shape of my life by the end of 2015. I started going to the gym in the second week in December, and haven’t been drinking or smoking – not even with the New Year’s celebrations,” he said.
Kajal Deonarain (30) will be focusing all her efforts on securing a job. “I have completed a tourism diploma and I am now looking for a permanent job in the hospitality industry,” she said.
Deon Rebello (38) is aiming to be more active in the New Year. “I definitely will be trying to get out doors more and enjoy nature. I also want to try and live a more healthier and productive life,” he said.
Riyaadh Naidu (18) is hoping to work towards completing his BA degree.
Shaun Hagan (18) is one of many who haven’t selected a New Year’s resolution yet, but said that he hopes to choose one soon.
Tamara Kiefner (21) has opted not to follow the annual tradition. “I would like to stop smoking and to live healthier, but I do not believe in New Year’s resolutions, as many people don’t go through with them,” she said.
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