Be happy, healthy, wealthy and wise for 2016

Originally published December 31, 2015

As 2015 comes to a close and we reflect on the past year, think also of plunging into the next.

Perhaps 2016 will bring a new opportunity or a new adventure. Looking into the future can be scary, but with a little planning, you can be prepared for changing circumstances.

Be happy

The winter solstice occurred at 10:48 p.m. Central time on Dec. 21, according to earthsky.org, which means daylight now is lasting a little longer each day.

For some, having the blues can be attributed to the extended darkness — later sunrises and earlier sunsets — leading up to the solstice. Maybe that’s why there are so many celebrations during the holidays — to lift our spirits and brighten our mood.

But from now until late June, daylight will last longer. If you still cannot get out of the “funk” of this time of year, perhaps light therapy is the answer. You can buy devices that simulate sunshine, or get outside and soak up some of the natural light when it is sunny.

Planning outdoor adventures or investing in a light therapy device may just be the ticket to avoid those winter blues.

“To be happy you must be your own sunshine.” — Charles Edward Jerningham

Be healthy

There are many options to get fit and healthy — from aerobics to Zumba — but if you are not committed or enjoying the workout, you will tire of it quickly.

This is not a short-term investment. Your exercise routine should be a lifestyle habit that fits your situation. Try to find an activity that you enjoy and you will make the time for it.

Meet people at your local gym or in a particular class, and challenge each other to attend a certain number of times per week. Adding the social aspect can make the commitment more satisfying.

Orland Park has many options for gyms and classes, and also a number of walking/riding paths. The new path at Orland Grassland at 167th Street and 104th Avenue, for instance, is beautiful.

Try to find something that interests you and stick to it.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” — Lao Tzu

Be wealthy

The Federal Reserve recently raised its key interest rate by 0.25 percent. It doesn’t seem like much, but since the increase was the first since 2006, this is a hopeful sign of healthier financial times to come. Savings rates will perhaps rise a little more robustly; however, borrowing will cost more, as well. Long-term planning for financial goals should be done early.

If you have children, there are vehicles for financing education (Education IRAs or Coverdell Education Savings Accounts) that allow you to plan for future tuition obligations. Remember, funds invested in these vehicles must be used for education.

An alternative is a Roth IRA, but there are restrictions with using such funds, so do your research or consult with a professional.

“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” — Benjamin Franklin

Be wise

In addition to gaining academic knowledge through classes at local colleges, why not broaden your creative and artistic abilities as well? In vogue right now are painting classes, sometimes held at bars, churches or even in your own home.

Art a la Carte, 11209 W. 159th St., Orland Park, is an art studio that also hosts paint parties at various locations. Art a la Carte is a BYOB establishment, so hosting a party at their location with a theme takes on an artful twist.

Kathryn Almeda, owner of Art a la Carte, relayed its mission statement, which says, in part, “We truly believe that creativity doesn’t just belong to a select few; it is a trait everyone possesses, and our goal is to nurture it and help it grow.”

For a look at upcoming events at Art a la Carte or to schedule a paint party, visit www.artalacarteinc.com or call (708) 403-2233.

“Every artist was first an amateur.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson