By Peter Kates

Most New Year’s resolutions fell by the wayside back in February, according to studies that show an 80 percent failure rate by the second month of the year. Now that we’re into the second half of 2021, it’s a good time to revisit the life changes you resolved to make back in January as you stood over a bowl of chips and watched the televised ball drop in Times Square.

“Why wait until the new year to give it another try?” asks Pat Salzer, RD, Wellbeing Engagement Consultant at Univera Healthcare. “Anytime is the right time to launch a new you!” She recommends seeking progress, rather than perfection, and identifies six elements of wellness that, when successfully balanced, can yield optimal results: Career, social, community, financial, emotional, and physical.

“Each element represents one aspect of life, and together, they reflect the whole person,” says Salzer.

Career: Exercise your mind by taking an online class from your local community college, or learn a new skill by watching YouTube videos. Select a topic to help your career, or just increase your knowledge base and have fun.

Social: Push beyond your comfort zone to find a group of people who share a common interest, such as an in-person or virtual book club, or a beginner class in yoga or tai chi.

Community: Seek out a place where you can offer your services as a volunteer. Even volunteering for a few hours each week or month can make a difference in someone’s life, including your own!

Financial: Organize your finances and records with the help of a financial advisor or money coach. Work toward paying off a credit card, saving for a bucket list vacation, or building a rainy day fund.

Emotional: Commit to being a better friend by proactively reaching out to others instead of always waiting to be called. Get together for lunch or an early dinner. Friendship fosters a support system, and anytime is a great time to socialize.

Physical: Find a reason to go for a walk. Tag along with a neighbor who is always out with their dog. They’ll enjoy the company, and you’ll both enjoy the conversation.

“As you revisit and reboot your resolutions for the remaining months of 2021, resist the urge to seek perfection and instead seek progress,” says Salzer. “Progress is defined as not waiting until January!”

Peter Kates is Vice President of Communications at Univera Healthcare.