Second Chance: Resolve Against Resolutions

04 Jan Second Chance: Resolve Against Resolutions

It is likely you did not achieve the New Year’s resolutions made in 2016. I say this confidently because research shows only 8% of people actually pull off their list  But don’t feel bad,  you were and are in good company: neither did 92% of Resolutionists out there. So for 2017, how can you become one of the elite few who actually achieve what they set out to do? Today’s Second Chance Pet Column reveals the secret… 

Zazzy

And here it is… don’t make New Year resolutions. I hear your collective sighs as you release the tension from not having come up with your resolutions yet. And here is why you haven’t, they are boring and unachievable. (Way to take the zing out of a new year by promising to do things you couldn’t do the year before… just like last year.)

Instead, for 2017, focus on survival – just kidding – no, for a successful 2017 it is all about New Year Awakenings. Focus on enjoying what you have, rather than chasing what you don’t – unless you are joyfully chasing a toy across the floor). Positive change is good, but without sincere gratitude it is just another typical year. Don’t change your life. Change how you live it.

Of course there’s nothing wrong with wanting to grow and improve different aspects of yourself, but before starting that journey, learn to accept where you are in the present moment. Then see what naturally comes about when you don’t force change.

Granted, I am a cat and we are not into overachievement (bring on the status quo and we will love you forever), but I am not encouraging mediocrity for 2017 – and even recommend some resolutions to changing behaviors that are not beneficial to one’s well-being. I believe that over-indulgent habits should be tested and revised. For example, instead of taking super long naps and not getting things accomplished, try intermittent cat-naps throughout the day to supply bursts of energy and inspiration.

Another resolution that I strongly encourage is to not roll over and accept everything life throws at you. If I did, I would not be alive to talk about it. Finding myself suddenly alone and homeless in the winter was not part of my life plan – but it happened – and challenges will come your way in 2017.

But rather than remain cold, hungry and alone I found my way here to Second Chance Humane Society. This is the place where furry felines like me are launched into our new careers as family pets. Speaking of which…I am about two years of age and love people, am fine with dogs but that unblinking stare of cats often times rattles me, so I would rather not live with other felines unless I have to.

A new year often inspires a renewed sense of purpose, determination, and hope. It is a time when you put the past behind you and begin new adventures. A time to reexamine your life and figure out what changes you’d like to make. That is cool and admirable, but please just commit to something worthy of your attention that really lights your fire – don’t be one of the uninspired 92% this year. (Pssssst – you can start by resolving to adopt a furry family member like me!)

Missy

And if you really want to do a dog a good deed, Missy is your girl. She has been having a really tough time finding her new family.  She is a lovely two-ish year old Chocolate Lab Mix. Because she is initially rather shy with people, she gets overlooked but does warm up and even when nervous,is as sweet as can be. She also gets along great with other dogs and cats and just needs her chance to win over your heart.

Editor’s note: It’s no secret. The Telluride region is dog heaven. Well, pet heaven. Unless you are one of our furry friends who gets caught in the maw of neglect and abuse. Then heaven is on hold until Second Chance Humane Society comes to the rescue. Second Chance is the region’s nonprofit dedicated to saving animals’ lives and promoting responsible pet parenting and human-animal bond. In her weekly blog, executive director Kelly Goodin profiles at least one, generally two of the many animals now living at the no-kill shelter, Angel Ridge Shelter, a dog and a cat, hoping to find them loving permanent homes. The column is sponsored by Ted Hoff of Cottonwood Ranch & Kennel, who from time to time exercises his skills as a dog whisperer, partnering with Kelly and her staff to help train a particularly challenging animal.

Ted Hoff &  Magnificent Mae

By the by, there is no better place to park your pup or get your pup (or adult dog) trained than Cottonwood whenever you head out of town (for locals) or are heading to town and staying somewhere that does not allow pets. Consider joining Ted’s Very Important Dog (VID) Club for added benies. (Details on Ted’s website.)

Dr. Michelle and Wallowby