Let me start by wishing you all a Happy New Year’s. Last year was certainly an improvement from 2020… let’s hope 2022 is even better. It’s hard to believe we are still dealing with the pandemic as we head into the new year, but we’ve learned a lot over the past two years and seem to be dealing with it a little better.
The start of a new year is a popular time for resolutions. We all make some, if not all, of the usual ones like exercise more, lose weight, get organized, travel more, save money… you know the list. According to one study, 50% of Americans set an exercise-related resolution each year. By February, 4 out of 5 people have ditched these resolutions entirely. It turns out habits are extremely hard to break.
Besides these usual suspects, there are other resolutions we can make… and maybe even keep. Maybe we could all try to be more kind to others this year. Text a friend, call your parents, post positive messages on social media. As society becomes more combative and hostile, spreading a little positivity certainly can’t hurt. We could also set a goal to be more environmentally conscious in 2022. We can start with little things like donating clothes, carrying reusable bags to the grocery store, purchasing eco-friendly metal straws, and recycling as much as possible.
The pandemic has changed much about the way we live. Daily routines have been altered, financial pressures have increased, feeling of isolation and despair are on the rise. Information overload, rumors, and misinformation can make us feel out of control. All of this has resulted in a significant uptick in mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. Taking care of our mental health has never been more important. There are self-care strategies we all can use, such as getting enough sleep, exercise, eating healthy, limiting screen time, and finding ways to relax and unwind. Many people benefit from practices such as deep breathing, yoga, mindfulness, or meditation. Reading a good book or taking a hot bath can help as well.
Here at Wasatch Peaks, while we can’t help very much with your fitness goals, we can help by getting your finances “in shape.” We have a number of savings and investment products available for our members, along with financial planning services. Loan rates are still at historically low levels, and you won’t find lower loan rates than ours. We have full-service mortgage and commercial departments to go along with all the consumer products you’ll ever need. Financial habits can be just as difficult as other habits to change. Please let us know if we can help.
Jeff Shaw | CEO and President
