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New Year’s Resolutions for Veterans

Goal-Setting and Wellness Tips

As the calendar flips to January, it’s natural to think about a New Year’s Resolution. For Veterans, this time of year can be an opportunity to reflect on past achievements while envisioning new possibilities. Imagine the sense of accomplishment you felt after completing a tough mission—now apply that same determination to bettering your own life in meaningful ways.

The New Year can be an excellent time to set meaningful New Year’s Resolutions that prioritize mental health, physical fitness, and financial wellness. These pillars of well-being can help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life while navigating the unique challenges that Veterans often face.

Here are actionable tips to achieve your New Year’s Resolution in 2025:

Mental Health: Your Foundation of Success and Happiness

1. Set Realistic Goals for Mental Health | Start small. Whether it’s committing to 10 minutes of mindfulness daily, scheduling regular therapy sessions, or joining a local Veterans’ support group, setting manageable goals can help you build momentum. Use the SMART framework: make goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation | Mindfulness is a proven method to reduce stress and anxiety. Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditations tailored to beginners and experienced practitioners alike. If you prefer, look into free Veteran-focused resources, such as those provided by the VA Mindfulness Coach app.

3. Build a Strong Support Network | It can feel isolating transitioning to civilian life but connecting with fellow Veterans who understand your journey can be incredibly grounding. Even connecting with other prior Service Members long after your separation can lead to finding like-minded friends and connections. Soldiers’ Angels is filled with Veteran employees, volunteers, and recipients. If you would like to learn how to volunteer with us to help low-income Veterans, military families, and more, click here to get started!

4. Embrace Gratitude Journaling | Taking time each day to write down three things you’re grateful for can shift your mindset and improve overall happiness. Keep a small notebook by your bedside or use a digital app to track your entries.

Physical Fitness: Building Strength and Endurance

1. Create a Fitness Plan Tailored to Your Needs | Veterans’ physical needs vary widely, especially if you’re managing service-related injuries. Start with a plan that suits your current fitness level, whether it’s gentle yoga, walking, swimming, or strength training. The VA’s Move! program is an excellent free resource designed specifically for Veterans.

2. Set Attainable Fitness Goals | Instead of vague resolutions like “get in shape,” aim for specific, achievable goals such as “walk 3 miles three times a week” or “lift weights twice a week.” Tracking your progress through a fitness app or journal can keep you motivated.

3. Stay Active in Your Community | Many local gyms and recreational centers offer discounts or free memberships for Veterans. Participating in group activities like a Veteran-focused running club or yoga class can help you stay active while fostering camaraderie.

4. Fuel Your Body with Proper Nutrition | As much as we all love our donuts and delicious fast food, healthy eating is a cornerstone of physical wellness. Start by incorporating more whole foods—like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—into your diet. If meal prep feels daunting, check out the VA’s Healthy Teaching Kitchen program for guidance.

Financial Wellness: Creating Stability and Security

1. Develop a Budget You Can Stick To | Use January as an opportunity to review your financial situation. Tools like Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), or even a simple spreadsheet can help you track your income, expenses, and savings goals. Remember to account for benefits like VA disability compensation or GI Bill payments when planning your budget.

2. Build an Emergency Fund | Unexpected expenses can happen to anyone, and having an emergency fund can provide peace of mind. Start by saving $500 to $1,000 in a dedicated account, then aim to save 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses.

3. Apply for VA Benefits | Navigating the VA can be difficult for some Veterans. It’s easy to get frustrated when you don’t get the benefits for your service-related injuries or conditions. We’ve written a blog on how to get the most out of your VA claim, as well as recommending certain companies who specialize in getting you the VA rating you deserve. Click here to read the blog.

4. Invest in Your Future | If you’re not already contributing to a retirement account, make 2025 the year to start. Options like a Roth IRA or TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) are great for building long-term wealth. If you’re unsure where to start, seek advice from a financial advisor who specializes in working with Veterans.

Combining Wellness Goals for Maximum Impact

Integrating mental health, physical fitness, and financial wellness goals can create a synergistic effect on your overall well-being and drive your New Year’s Resolution forward even faster. For example:

  • Mind and Body Connection: Combining mindfulness with physical activity, like yoga or tai chi, can enhance both mental clarity and physical flexibility.
  • Healthy Habits on a Budget: Meal-prepping healthy foods not only supports your fitness goals but also helps you save money.
  • Stress Reduction Through Financial Security: Achieving financial stability can reduce anxiety, making it easier to focus on mental and physical health.

Additional Tips for Staying on Track

1. Use Technology to Your Advantage | Apps can be powerful tools to help you stay organized and motivated. For mental health, try PTSD Coach or Breathe2Relax. For fitness, explore MyFitnessPal or Strava. And for financial management, apps like PocketGuard or Empower can simplify budgeting.

2. Celebrate Small Wins | Acknowledging progress—no matter how small—can keep you motivated. Treat yourself to something meaningful when you hit a milestone, like completing a month of regular workouts or reaching a savings goal.

3. Seek Professional Guidance | There’s no shame in asking for help. Whether it’s a therapist, personal trainer, or financial advisor, professionals can provide tailored advice and support to keep you on track.

4. Revisit and Adjust Your Goals | Life happens, and sometimes goals need to change. Set a monthly reminder to review your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Final Thoughts

The New Year is a perfect time for Veterans to reflect, reset, and reimagine what’s possible. By setting achievable New Year’s Resolutions that prioritize mental health, physical fitness, and financial wellness, you can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling 2025. Remember, small, consistent steps lead to big transformations—you’ve already proven your resilience in service, and now it’s time to channel that strength into creating the life you deserve.

Cheers to a fresh start and a year of growth, health, and prosperity! If you are a Veteran who is in need of help or wants to give back to your local military and Veteran communities, consider getting involved with Soldiers’ Angels. Whether you need support or want to find a way to give support, we provide options and avenues for all Veterans. May all your goals come true, Happy New Year, and May No Soldier Go Unloved!