Goal-setting 101: create a support system to help you succeed… and pay for it if you have to.
Friends are good, but experts are better.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of local businesses that will make keeping this year’s resolutions a whole lot easier than trying to go it alone.
And the bonus: our list will help you keep that other resolution to buy/eat/spend local. So basically, you’re already killing it in 2015.
1. Cleanse Regularly: CRU Juice
Getting healthier is probably the most common resolution there is, but it won’t happen unless you’re specific. Cleansing your body is one awesome way to make it happen, but the time it takes can deter even the most determined amongst us. CRU Juice, whose name comes from the French word for “raw”, can take the work out of flushing your system of the bad and infusing natural, quality ingredients into your daily routine. Created by a couple of Calgary ladies, the company is on the rise and the goods can now be found at the juice bar at Holt Renfrew as well as their original Bridgeland locale.
2. Give Your Time: Volunteer Calgary
We live in one of the most generous cities in Canada, which is why it should be no surprise that an organization like Volunteer Calgary exists. Their website makes finding the perfect role to fit your skill-set, schedule, and passions simple, and real people offer free information on the opportunities and non-profits they support. You can also follow them on Facebook if you need some inspiration.
3. Bike to Work: Bike Bike
If you’ve ever considered a healthier, more eco-friendly mode of commuting, this is definitely Calgary’s year to get rolling. New bike lanes and a growing cycling culture are going to make it easier than ever before, and Bike Bike should be your first stop on your route. Aside from their impressive selection of bicyclettes, they’re also the experts on safe winter biking and making sure you have the accessories you need to hit the road.
4. Go on More Dates: Collectively
Making a conscious effort to meet “the one”? Not a fan of the “blind-date” feeling that goes along with online dating? More comfortable in groups? Perfect. Collectively is a Calgary start-up that will set you and your friends up with a crew of three other singles and send you to a cool spot to meet up, free drink included. Less pressure, less commitment, less money; that all sounds pretty great to us.
5. Advance Your Career: Mount Royal University Continuing Education
Whether it’s getting ahead in your field or switching to a new one completely, having some education behind you is key to getting a leg up on the competition. We all know this, but going back to school full time can be daunting. Mount Royal has an extensive list of programs in everything from Digital Communications to Healthy Aging, and flexible, convenient schedules that will make it easy to fit into your already full life.
If you’re working on resolution #4, just remember: smart is sexy.
6. Take Better Care of Your Skin: Skoah
If this one’s not on your list, it should be. Young professionals (YPs) often underestimate the importance of being good to their skin in their twenties and thirties, then end up pumping their faces with Botox later in life to play catch up. Vancouver-based Skoah is here to make it easy with their “Skin Gym” program, calling it “personal training for your skin.” The bonus: friendly staff and natural products make it way more enjoyable than a sweaty spin class, we promise.
7. Embrace Meatless Monday: The Coup
While this spot has been a super popular choice amongst health-conscious foodies for years, we still think it’s worth mentioning. Genius chefs blend mind-blowing, all organic flavours that will make even the most devoted carnivores consider ditching meat for good. And if you haven’t given up alcohol, their cocktail list and sexy new décor make it a perfect date spot.
8. Learn to Ski or Board: Winsport Winter Sports Institute
If you’re living in Calgary and aren’t taking advantage of the Rockies in your backyard, you’re doing yourself a serious disservice. Getting started with snow sports can be way easier than you think, especially if you let the expert instructors at Calgary Olympic Park show you the way. Lessons are relatively inexpensive and happen at times that cater to adults of all levels with evening slots under the bright lights. Don’t let another ski season pass you by, and take advantage of Olympic-quality facilities within the city limits.
9. Manage Your Money: Mawer
Making money is one thing, growing it is a whole new challenge. Education and a trustworthy approach are keys to investing and financial management, which this firm understands better than most. A fresh, local perspective and professional advice backed by 40 years of history in Calgary make this an intelligent choice amongst the mass of options.
10. Be More Creative: Grasby Art Studio
Embracing expression is on a lot of resolution lists, and doing it with visual arts is made simple at this Bowness institution. Drop-ins, monthly memberships, open studio and the trendy, social “paint nights” and various mediums are all options at this professional studio, and the comfortable environment will keep you coming back for more.
11. Run a Race: Strides
Whether it’s your first 5K or your tenth marathon, a running clinic can be the secret to your success. This Marda Loop shop has a bunch of pro-led groups that will help you go farther and faster in a social environment in one of Calgary’s most picturesque natural regions. If you’re not ready to commit, check out a free group run at 9:00 am every Saturday to see if it’s for you.
No excuses now, Calgary. Happy 2015.
#NOTABLE
Cover image from: CRU Juice
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