Tips to Make Tax Time Less Terrible! 

The deadline for filing taxes is Tuesday, April 18 

Filing taxes can be intimidating, especially if you’re not financially savvy. But fear not – this article will walk you through some simple, effective tips to make your tax filing easier.

Choose a Filing Method 

DIY with Paper Form: If your life and work situations are pretty straightforward you can get IRS Form 1040EZ for your federal and state’s 1040EZ from the relevant websites, or often from local libraries. 

DIY with Tax Software: User-friendly tax software can guide you through the process. It’s ideal for straightforward tax situations and often includes e-filing.  The fees that you pay will vary based on how many documents you have to file 

Hire a Professional: If your tax situation is complex (e.g., if you’ve been self-employed, had multiple income sources, or owned a business), consider hiring a tax professional. 

Get Nonprofit or Free Help: Several area nonprofits will help you file your taxes if you meet certain income requirements.  Call 2-1-1 and be ready to tell them about how much you made and the area in which you live or work.

 Understanding the Basics 

Know Your Tax Bracket: The percentage of your income that you pay in taxes is based on how much you and other members of your household earned.  There are charts on the IRS website where you can find out your tax bracket. 

Identify Your Filing Status: Your status could be single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er). Most people will be single or married filing jointly, but each status has different tax rates and deductions so the best option will depend on your situation. 

What Do I Need to Get Started? 

To get started you just need to pull together a few pieces of paperwork from your employer or any other organization that has paid you a substantial amount of money. 

Collect Income Statements: Businesses that paid you a regular wage or salary (most likely The Center) will give you a W-2 form.  If you can’t find your W-2. Here is how to find it in ADP. 

If you worked as a contractor or gig worker and earned more than a few hundred dollars, those jobs should give you 1099 forms.  There are separate forms for interest, investment income, or rental properties 

Deductions are a Simple Way to Save Money 

Keep Track of Deductions and Credits: Deductions are subtracted from the amount you earned, meaning that you can use them to pay less tax. 

Education Expenses: 

• Student Loan Interest Deduction: If you have student loans you can deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interest. 

• American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): Credit for the first four years of higher education, up to $2,500 per student. 
• Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): Credit for tuition and related expenses for higher education. 

Retirement Savings Contributions:

• Retirement Account Contributions: Deductible contributions to traditional IRAs and 401(k)s don’t count against your income. 

Job-Related Expenses: 

• Mileage Deduction: If you use your car for business, medical, or charitable purposes, you may be able to deduct mileage. The rates vary each year, so check the current IRS guidelines. 
• Moving Expenses for First Job: If you were a member of the Armed Forces and moved for your first civilian job, you can deduct certain moving expenses. 
• Work Uniforms and Job Supplies: Deduct costs for uniforms and supplies not suitable for everyday use. (This can be used if you bought your own scrubs that you use only for work). 

Healthcare Expenses: 

• Medical and Dental Expenses: if you spent more than 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI, a number that you will figure out as you prepare your taxes), you can deduct any amount over 7.5% 

Charitable Donations: 

• Donations to Qualified Charities: Using proper documentation from the charity, you can deduct money or goods given to registered charities. 

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): 

• This is an important deduction for those with children or those who have a low to moderate income.  Your tax form or software can help you figure out if you’re eligible.

Standard Deduction: 

• This is an automatic deduction that lowers your tax payment if you don’t want to, or cannot, list various charitible contributions or business expenses. 

Filing Your Taxes 

Understand the Forms: You will need to file your tax forms with the federal government as well as in every state where you worked or lived in 2023 

Fill Out Your Forms Accurately: Whether you’re using software or filling out forms manually, ensure all information is correct. Double-check your income, deductions, and personal information.  Make sure to keep all your documents in one place. 

Final Steps 

Submit Your Tax Return: You can e-file or mail your tax return. E-filing is faster, more secure, and generally preferred. 

Pay Any Taxes Owed: If you owe taxes, make sure to pay by the deadline to avoid penalties. Payment can be made online, by phone, or by mail.  It may be possible to arrange to make several smaller payments if you owe a lot of taxes. 

Track Your Refund: If you’re expecting a refund, you can track its status on the IRS website. 

Prepare for Next Year: If you came out owing taxes, or if you got a big refund but would rather have that extra money appear on your paycheck throughout the year, you can talk to HR or log into ADP to change the amount of tax that is being withheld from your paycheck. 

Tax filing isn’t nearly as bad as most people think. Start early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to seek help if needed. Remember, being proactive and informed is key to a stress-free tax filing experience. 

*This article is a curation of basic best practices. If you are unsure of the tax laws for your particular situation, please contact a licensed tax professional. 

Holidays

[expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

[/expander_maker]

The Drop-In Center needs your new or used cold-weather items! 

There’s a new large box next to the entrance at the Drop-In Center; what’s it for?   [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

As you know, since opening less than a year ago, the Drop-In Center has been providing amazing services and helping to connect potential clients to our other services.  It’s been a great way for us to provide earlier interventions and has served hundreds of clients thousands of times! 

BUT, the Drop-In Center relies on donated supplies to serve clients.  Each month this year we will feature a monthly donation need.  This is your chance to help out, invite your friends and family to help out, or motivate your community organization or church to serve the unhoused population of St. Clair County and surrounding communities. 

THIS MONTH we are collecting cold weather items.  Coats, hats, gloves, sweats, hot hands, etc. New or used items are welcome, and you can simply drop your donation in the box or bring it to the staff if you would like a donation letter for your taxes. 

If our Christmas families showed us anything, it’s that together we can have a huge impact! 

[/expander_maker]

February’s pet of the Month is Baby!  Baby (pictured here with Kaius) was rescued by our Director of Human Resources, Kyra.    [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

She found Baby shivering out in the cold and coaxed him inside.  After a bath and good meal, she took Baby to the vet.   

Finding that he was not microchipped and was not wearing any ID, Baby became a permanent resident of the Dorsey household.  He is growing and thriving in his new home. [/expander_maker]

How to Make Your Resolution Last-Seven Tips

As the New Year rolls in, many of us set resolutions with genuine intent, yet find them fading away as the year progresses. To ensure your resolutions turn into reality, here are practical tips to help you stay on track:

[expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]

1. Be Specific and Realistic: General resolutions like “lose weight” or “save more money” are too vague. Be specific. For instance, aim to lose 10 pounds or save $100 every month. Ensure your goals are realistic and achievable within your current lifestyle.
2. Create a Plan: A resolution without a plan is just a wish. Break down your goal into smaller, manageable steps. If your resolution is to run a marathon, start by scheduling short runs and gradually increase your distance.
3. Track Your Progress: Monitoring your progress helps maintain motivation. Use a journal, an app, or a calendar to record your achievements. Seeing how far you’ve come can be a powerful motivator.
4. Set Up Reminders: Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget about your resolutions. Set reminders on your phone or place sticky notes in visible places to keep your goals front and center.
5. Seek Support: Share your resolutions with friends or family members who can offer encouragement. Consider joining a group with similar goals for mutual support and accountability.
6. Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t wait until you’ve fully achieved your goal to celebrate. Reward yourself for the small milestones. This will boost your morale and encourage you to keep going.
7. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your progress. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change your approach. Flexibility and adaptability are key to maintaining long-term goals.

Remember, the objective is not perfection but progress. By setting clear, achievable goals and employing these strategies, your New Year’s resolution can transform from a yearly ritual into a meaningful, lasting change.

[/expander_maker]

Tips to Make Tax Time Less Terrible! 

The deadline for filing taxes is Tuesday, April 18 

Filing taxes can be intimidating, especially if you’re not financially savvy. But fear not – this article will walk you through some simple, effective tips to make your tax filing easier.

Choose a Filing Method 

DIY with Paper Form: If your life and work situations are pretty straightforward you can get IRS Form 1040EZ for your federal and state’s 1040EZ from the relevant websites, or often from local libraries. 

DIY with Tax Software: User-friendly tax software can guide you through the process. It’s ideal for straightforward tax situations and often includes e-filing.  The fees that you pay will vary based on how many documents you have to file 

Hire a Professional: If your tax situation is complex (e.g., if you’ve been self-employed, had multiple income sources, or owned a business), consider hiring a tax professional. 

Get Nonprofit or Free Help: Several area nonprofits will help you file your taxes if you meet certain income requirements.  Call 2-1-1 and be ready to tell them about how much you made and the area in which you live or work.

 Understanding the Basics 

Know Your Tax Bracket: The percentage of your income that you pay in taxes is based on how much you and other members of your household earned.  There are charts on the IRS website where you can find out your tax bracket. 

Identify Your Filing Status: Your status could be single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er). Most people will be single or married filing jointly, but each status has different tax rates and deductions so the best option will depend on your situation. 

What Do I Need to Get Started? 

To get started you just need to pull together a few pieces of paperwork from your employer or any other organization that has paid you a substantial amount of money. 

Collect Income Statements: Businesses that paid you a regular wage or salary (most likely The Center) will give you a W-2 form.  If you can’t find your W-2. Here is how to find it in ADP. 

If you worked as a contractor or gig worker and earned more than a few hundred dollars, those jobs should give you 1099 forms.  There are separate forms for interest, investment income, or rental properties 

Deductions are a Simple Way to Save Money 

Keep Track of Deductions and Credits: Deductions are subtracted from the amount you earned, meaning that you can use them to pay less tax. 

Education Expenses: 

• Student Loan Interest Deduction: If you have student loans you can deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interest. 

• American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): Credit for the first four years of higher education, up to $2,500 per student. 
• Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): Credit for tuition and related expenses for higher education. 

Retirement Savings Contributions:

• Retirement Account Contributions: Deductible contributions to traditional IRAs and 401(k)s don’t count against your income. 

Job-Related Expenses: 

• Mileage Deduction: If you use your car for business, medical, or charitable purposes, you may be able to deduct mileage. The rates vary each year, so check the current IRS guidelines. 
• Moving Expenses for First Job: If you were a member of the Armed Forces and moved for your first civilian job, you can deduct certain moving expenses. 
• Work Uniforms and Job Supplies: Deduct costs for uniforms and supplies not suitable for everyday use. (This can be used if you bought your own scrubs that you use only for work). 

Healthcare Expenses: 

• Medical and Dental Expenses: if you spent more than 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI, a number that you will figure out as you prepare your taxes), you can deduct any amount over 7.5% 

Charitable Donations: 

• Donations to Qualified Charities: Using proper documentation from the charity, you can deduct money or goods given to registered charities. 

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): 

• This is an important deduction for those with children or those who have a low to moderate income.  Your tax form or software can help you figure out if you’re eligible.

Standard Deduction: 

• This is an automatic deduction that lowers your tax payment if you don’t want to, or cannot, list various charitible contributions or business expenses. 

Filing Your Taxes 

Understand the Forms: You will need to file your tax forms with the federal government as well as in every state where you worked or lived in 2023 

Fill Out Your Forms Accurately: Whether you’re using software or filling out forms manually, ensure all information is correct. Double-check your income, deductions, and personal information.  Make sure to keep all your documents in one place. 

Final Steps 

Submit Your Tax Return: You can e-file or mail your tax return. E-filing is faster, more secure, and generally preferred. 

Pay Any Taxes Owed: If you owe taxes, make sure to pay by the deadline to avoid penalties. Payment can be made online, by phone, or by mail.  It may be possible to arrange to make several smaller payments if you owe a lot of taxes. 

Track Your Refund: If you’re expecting a refund, you can track its status on the IRS website. 

Prepare for Next Year: If you came out owing taxes, or if you got a big refund but would rather have that extra money appear on your paycheck throughout the year, you can talk to HR or log into ADP to change the amount of tax that is being withheld from your paycheck. 

Tax filing isn’t nearly as bad as most people think. Start early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to seek help if needed. Remember, being proactive and informed is key to a stress-free tax filing experience. 

*This article is a curation of basic best practices. If you are unsure of the tax laws for your particular situation, please contact a licensed tax professional. 

Living Room Dedication

Photos courtesy of Mr. Bailey and Joseph Cobetto.

On January 1, Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center of St. Clair County dedicated the new Living Room to former CBHC Executive Director Marsha Johnson. [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

Ms. Johnson led CBHC through the site selection, many zoning issues, and construction of The Center’s present main campus at 505 S. 8th St in East St Louis.  Friends, family, and many members of the CBHC family gathered for the dedication. 

As current and former CBHC leadership reiterated frequently during the dedication, Ms. Johnson was fiercely devoted to the idea that CBHC be committed to its community, and particularly the underserved population of East St. Louis. 

It’s therefore only fitting that this new center, dedicated to serving members of the local community who are in crisis, be named for her. 

Before the unveiling of the dedication plaque and private tour for Ms. Johnson and her family, Crisis Services Mike Nichols described the program offered by the living room and how it differs from other CBHC offerings like the Drop-In Center. 

The living room has similar offerings to the Drop-In Center like the availability of showers, toiletries, and snacks, but is open 24 hours and only available to those in an active mental health crisis.

The space is designed to be quiet with no TV, calming colors and art, and a private space where crisis counselors can work one-on-one to get people in crisis the help they need. 

This will all take place in a peaceful and caring environment of safety.  Clients will be able to stay for up to 23 hours while they get connected to community services. 

The Living Room is located behind ARTS House with a client entrance on the North-West corner of the building near the loading dock. 

We celebrate the work that will be done and the leadership of  Ms. Johnson that brought The Center so far in its commitment to our shared community. 

[/expander_maker]

The Drop-In Center needs your new or used cold-weather items! 

There’s a new large box next to the entrance at the Drop-In Center; what’s it for?   [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

As you know, since opening less than a year ago, the Drop-In Center has been providing amazing services and helping to connect potential clients to our other services.  It’s been a great way for us to provide earlier interventions and has served hundreds of clients thousands of times! 

BUT, the Drop-In Center relies on donated supplies to serve clients.  Each month this year we will feature a monthly donation need.  This is your chance to help out, invite your friends and family to help out, or motivate your community organization or church to serve the unhoused population of St. Clair County and surrounding communities. 

THIS MONTH we are collecting cold weather items.  Coats, hats, gloves, sweats, hot hands, etc. New or used items are welcome, and you can simply drop your donation in the box or bring it to the staff if you would like a donation letter for your taxes. 

If our Christmas families showed us anything, it’s that together we can have a huge impact! 

[/expander_maker]

Meet Trixie, the beloved pooch of our very own Andrew Bertolucci! [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

Trixie and Andrew have been partners in crime for over a decade. Despite Trixie’s “advanced age”, she still loves to make a run for her favorite spots in the neighborhood when she sees the opportunity.

Some of her favorite adventures include making a break for the woods or the neighborhood pond. Even though, he loves Trixie, Andrew is not a fan of these adventures. He is usually the one seeking in this canine version of hide and go seek.

[/expander_maker]

How to Make Your Resolution Last-Seven Tips

As the New Year rolls in, many of us set resolutions with genuine intent, yet find them fading away as the year progresses. To ensure your resolutions turn into reality, here are practical tips to help you stay on track:

[expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]

1. Be Specific and Realistic: General resolutions like “lose weight” or “save more money” are too vague. Be specific. For instance, aim to lose 10 pounds or save $100 every month. Ensure your goals are realistic and achievable within your current lifestyle.
2. Create a Plan: A resolution without a plan is just a wish. Break down your goal into smaller, manageable steps. If your resolution is to run a marathon, start by scheduling short runs and gradually increase your distance.
3. Track Your Progress: Monitoring your progress helps maintain motivation. Use a journal, an app, or a calendar to record your achievements. Seeing how far you’ve come can be a powerful motivator.
4. Set Up Reminders: Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget about your resolutions. Set reminders on your phone or place sticky notes in visible places to keep your goals front and center.
5. Seek Support: Share your resolutions with friends or family members who can offer encouragement. Consider joining a group with similar goals for mutual support and accountability.
6. Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t wait until you’ve fully achieved your goal to celebrate. Reward yourself for the small milestones. This will boost your morale and encourage you to keep going.
7. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your progress. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change your approach. Flexibility and adaptability are key to maintaining long-term goals.

Remember, the objective is not perfection but progress. By setting clear, achievable goals and employing these strategies, your New Year’s resolution can transform from a yearly ritual into a meaningful, lasting change.

[/expander_maker]

Tips to Make Tax Time Less Terrible! 

The deadline for filing taxes is Tuesday, April 18 

Filing taxes can be intimidating, especially if you’re not financially savvy. But fear not – this article will walk you through some simple, effective tips to make your tax filing easier.

Choose a Filing Method 

DIY with Paper Form: If your life and work situations are pretty straightforward you can get IRS Form 1040EZ for your federal and state’s 1040EZ from the relevant websites, or often from local libraries. 

DIY with Tax Software: User-friendly tax software can guide you through the process. It’s ideal for straightforward tax situations and often includes e-filing.  The fees that you pay will vary based on how many documents you have to file 

Hire a Professional: If your tax situation is complex (e.g., if you’ve been self-employed, had multiple income sources, or owned a business), consider hiring a tax professional. 

Get Nonprofit or Free Help: Several area nonprofits will help you file your taxes if you meet certain income requirements.  Call 2-1-1 and be ready to tell them about how much you made and the area in which you live or work.

 Understanding the Basics 

Know Your Tax Bracket: The percentage of your income that you pay in taxes is based on how much you and other members of your household earned.  There are charts on the IRS website where you can find out your tax bracket. 

Identify Your Filing Status: Your status could be single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er). Most people will be single or married filing jointly, but each status has different tax rates and deductions so the best option will depend on your situation. 

What Do I Need to Get Started? 

To get started you just need to pull together a few pieces of paperwork from your employer or any other organization that has paid you a substantial amount of money. 

Collect Income Statements: Businesses that paid you a regular wage or salary (most likely The Center) will give you a W-2 form.  If you can’t find your W-2. Here is how to find it in ADP. 

If you worked as a contractor or gig worker and earned more than a few hundred dollars, those jobs should give you 1099 forms.  There are separate forms for interest, investment income, or rental properties 

Deductions are a Simple Way to Save Money 

Keep Track of Deductions and Credits: Deductions are subtracted from the amount you earned, meaning that you can use them to pay less tax. 

Education Expenses: 

• Student Loan Interest Deduction: If you have student loans you can deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interest. 

• American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): Credit for the first four years of higher education, up to $2,500 per student. 
• Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): Credit for tuition and related expenses for higher education. 

Retirement Savings Contributions:

• Retirement Account Contributions: Deductible contributions to traditional IRAs and 401(k)s don’t count against your income. 

Job-Related Expenses: 

• Mileage Deduction: If you use your car for business, medical, or charitable purposes, you may be able to deduct mileage. The rates vary each year, so check the current IRS guidelines. 
• Moving Expenses for First Job: If you were a member of the Armed Forces and moved for your first civilian job, you can deduct certain moving expenses. 
• Work Uniforms and Job Supplies: Deduct costs for uniforms and supplies not suitable for everyday use. (This can be used if you bought your own scrubs that you use only for work). 

Healthcare Expenses: 

• Medical and Dental Expenses: if you spent more than 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI, a number that you will figure out as you prepare your taxes), you can deduct any amount over 7.5% 

Charitable Donations: 

• Donations to Qualified Charities: Using proper documentation from the charity, you can deduct money or goods given to registered charities. 

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): 

• This is an important deduction for those with children or those who have a low to moderate income.  Your tax form or software can help you figure out if you’re eligible.

Standard Deduction: 

• This is an automatic deduction that lowers your tax payment if you don’t want to, or cannot, list various charitible contributions or business expenses. 

Filing Your Taxes 

Understand the Forms: You will need to file your tax forms with the federal government as well as in every state where you worked or lived in 2023 

Fill Out Your Forms Accurately: Whether you’re using software or filling out forms manually, ensure all information is correct. Double-check your income, deductions, and personal information.  Make sure to keep all your documents in one place. 

Final Steps 

Submit Your Tax Return: You can e-file or mail your tax return. E-filing is faster, more secure, and generally preferred. 

Pay Any Taxes Owed: If you owe taxes, make sure to pay by the deadline to avoid penalties. Payment can be made online, by phone, or by mail.  It may be possible to arrange to make several smaller payments if you owe a lot of taxes. 

Track Your Refund: If you’re expecting a refund, you can track its status on the IRS website. 

Prepare for Next Year: If you came out owing taxes, or if you got a big refund but would rather have that extra money appear on your paycheck throughout the year, you can talk to HR or log into ADP to change the amount of tax that is being withheld from your paycheck. 

Tax filing isn’t nearly as bad as most people think. Start early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to seek help if needed. Remember, being proactive and informed is key to a stress-free tax filing experience. 

*This article is a curation of basic best practices. If you are unsure of the tax laws for your particular situation, please contact a licensed tax professional. 

Living Room Dedication

Photos courtesy of Mr. Bailey and Joseph Cobetto.

On January 1, Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center of St. Clair County dedicated the new Living Room to former CBHC Executive Director Marsha Johnson. [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

Ms. Johnson led CBHC through the site selection, many zoning issues, and construction of The Center’s present main campus at 505 S. 8th St in East St Louis.  Friends, family, and many members of the CBHC family gathered for the dedication. 

As current and former CBHC leadership reiterated frequently during the dedication, Ms. Johnson was fiercely devoted to the idea that CBHC be committed to its community, and particularly the underserved population of East St. Louis. 

It’s therefore only fitting that this new center, dedicated to serving members of the local community who are in crisis, be named for her. 

Before the unveiling of the dedication plaque and private tour for Ms. Johnson and her family, Crisis Services Mike Nichols described the program offered by the living room and how it differs from other CBHC offerings like the Drop-In Center. 

The living room has similar offerings to the Drop-In Center like the availability of showers, toiletries, and snacks, but is open 24 hours and only available to those in an active mental health crisis.

The space is designed to be quiet with no TV, calming colors and art, and a private space where crisis counselors can work one-on-one to get people in crisis the help they need. 

This will all take place in a peaceful and caring environment of safety.  Clients will be able to stay for up to 23 hours while they get connected to community services. 

The Living Room is located behind ARTS House with a client entrance on the North-West corner of the building near the loading dock. 

We celebrate the work that will be done and the leadership of  Ms. Johnson that brought The Center so far in its commitment to our shared community. 

[/expander_maker]

The Drop-In Center needs your new or used cold-weather items! 

There’s a new large box next to the entrance at the Drop-In Center; what’s it for?   [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

As you know, since opening less than a year ago, the Drop-In Center has been providing amazing services and helping to connect potential clients to our other services.  It’s been a great way for us to provide earlier interventions and has served hundreds of clients thousands of times! 

BUT, the Drop-In Center relies on donated supplies to serve clients.  Each month this year we will feature a monthly donation need.  This is your chance to help out, invite your friends and family to help out, or motivate your community organization or church to serve the unhoused population of St. Clair County and surrounding communities. 

THIS MONTH we are collecting cold weather items.  Coats, hats, gloves, sweats, hot hands, etc. New or used items are welcome, and you can simply drop your donation in the box or bring it to the staff if you would like a donation letter for your taxes. 

If our Christmas families showed us anything, it’s that together we can have a huge impact! 

[/expander_maker]

Meet Trixie, the beloved pooch of our very own Andrew Bertolucci! [expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]   

Trixie and Andrew have been partners in crime for over a decade. Despite Trixie’s “advanced age”, she still loves to make a run for her favorite spots in the neighborhood when she sees the opportunity.

Some of her favorite adventures include making a break for the woods or the neighborhood pond. Even though, he loves Trixie, Andrew is not a fan of these adventures. He is usually the one seeking in this canine version of hide and go seek.

[/expander_maker]

How to Make Your Resolution Last-Seven Tips

As the New Year rolls in, many of us set resolutions with genuine intent, yet find them fading away as the year progresses. To ensure your resolutions turn into reality, here are practical tips to help you stay on track:

[expander_maker id=”2″ more=”Read more” less=”Read less”]

1. Be Specific and Realistic: General resolutions like “lose weight” or “save more money” are too vague. Be specific. For instance, aim to lose 10 pounds or save $100 every month. Ensure your goals are realistic and achievable within your current lifestyle.
2. Create a Plan: A resolution without a plan is just a wish. Break down your goal into smaller, manageable steps. If your resolution is to run a marathon, start by scheduling short runs and gradually increase your distance.
3. Track Your Progress: Monitoring your progress helps maintain motivation. Use a journal, an app, or a calendar to record your achievements. Seeing how far you’ve come can be a powerful motivator.
4. Set Up Reminders: Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget about your resolutions. Set reminders on your phone or place sticky notes in visible places to keep your goals front and center.
5. Seek Support: Share your resolutions with friends or family members who can offer encouragement. Consider joining a group with similar goals for mutual support and accountability.
6. Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t wait until you’ve fully achieved your goal to celebrate. Reward yourself for the small milestones. This will boost your morale and encourage you to keep going.
7. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your progress. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change your approach. Flexibility and adaptability are key to maintaining long-term goals.

Remember, the objective is not perfection but progress. By setting clear, achievable goals and employing these strategies, your New Year’s resolution can transform from a yearly ritual into a meaningful, lasting change.

[/expander_maker]