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Monday, December 26, 2011

If you’re looking for a resolution – slow down!

Most of us REALLY need to slow down...

According to Carol Mithers, author of “The Benefits of Slowing Down,” finding a slower rhythm can improve just about every aspect of our lives. Here’s how:

• Slow Spending: Instead of whipping out a credit card to make impulse purchases - ask and answer the hard questions first: Why am I buying this? Do I really need it? Can I actually afford it? Will I use it? Slow spending allows you to reduce or get rid of debt and teach your children the value of limits.

• Slow Weight Loss: Diets that boast quick weight loss may work in the short term, but there is a very high chance all that weight you lost -- and then some -- will come creeping back. When you lose weight slowly at the rate of one to two pounds a week, you're far more likely to keep it off.

• Slow Parenting: If you need a computerized calendar just to coordinate all your children's many activities and carpools, it's time to chill. What would happen if you spent a season with no scheduled activities? Your children will likely discover something new: imagination. They'll realize how much fun a big, empty box can be, and they'll create new games that don't require a controller.

• Slow Hobbies: Knitting a sweater, cross-stitching, any hands-on hobby will force you to slow down and sit down. You'll learn patience and deliberation. The repetitive and rhythmic motion of knitting or stitching will create a sense of soothing peace and calm. And you'll even have something to show for it in the end!

• Slow Conversation: To engage in real conversation, you have to make time for it. It doesn't work in an e-mail or on the phone. It requires in-person face time with no time limit and no cell phones to interrupt. What happens in the end? You'll feel connected.

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