The Homes of Zee

Hacks to Make your Resolutions Effective

Here, we show you why you don’t stick to your own resolutions and how we remedy that mindset by turning to your resolution S.M.A.R.T-ly.

It’s ironic when every year we make a resolution is also when we break our pledges to ourselves, whether it’s due to a lack of motivation, resources, or simply just a loss of interest. Here, we show you why you don’t stick to your own resolutions and how we remedy that mindset by turning to your resolution S.M.A.R.T-ly.

What are SMART goals, aside from its being coined as “wise”? You’ve probably heard of it many times before with its different variations; this acronym stands for: S-specific, M-motivational, A- attainable, R- realistic, rewarding or results-oriented, and T- time-bound, tangible and traceable. With these guidelines, you’ll find it harder to stray from your resolutions together with determination and focus. But before that, let’s take a look at why you don’t often stick to your so-called “new you” plans.

Reason 1: Extremely Lofty Resolutions
If you’re want world peace and end war, it might be a far-off goal to achieve, and it is not as much results-oriented obviously, because of its scale. Sometimes we question ourselves if we made the resolution because we really want to commit to it, or if we wrote it because we’re supposed to do it.

S stands for specific; this comes in handy if you’re confused what to achieve first. A resolution can always be lofty is because it’s not specific. By writing it down to measurable specifics like how many pounds to shed off and what weight to achieve or what to vices to avoid on certain days, it becomes clearer because we can picture it in our minds.

Reason 2: Time Management

Sometimes we realize our resolution is a bigger time commitment than we originally intended. Instead of trying to accomplish it all in one day, break it up into manageable increments. One way to adapt to this technique is by habit. It might be uncomfortable at first. For example, you might want to try to be clutter-free and organized for every 5 minutes until it becomes a nature to be organized.

M is for measurable, effective goals. It helps to specify what success looks like, and you do so by including measurement. This specificity is much more effective than the hope for a vague outcome. Start it on a span of minutes, days or months to give you ample time to commit to a goal.

Reason 3: Fantasy Resolutions

We fantasize a flawless and toned figure or that six-figure job, but can we really make it happen before the year is over?

A is for attainable. You can set ambitious goals, but make sure that you break down the goals into attainable steps. With this mindset, we are able to get at least one step closer to the ideal goal and stick to what is attainable. Same goes of R- for realistic; these aren’t just goals that you’re able to attain, but they’re also goals that you are willing to attain that comes with a change of behaviour, so pick up the confidence and stick with it. It is far better to succeed with a smaller, more manageable resolution than fail at a larger, loftier one.

Reason 4: Not Believing in Yourself

Motivation comes a long way to a certain resolution/goal. That’s where we are tested. Sometimes we need a pat on the back and congratulate ourselves to be energized, and look back to a progress and continue achieving the initial goal.

T for time-bound or tangible. Finally, a goal is a good as one that’s time-limited. You’ll find yourself giving a time frame that will boost your motivation. Just don’t make it too short, because you want to give yourself time to complete the goal while also making the behaviors into a habit.

Congratulate yourself with the progress. The problem is that sometimes we see the goal with a black and white perspective; there will always be a grey area.

An additional tip is to do the same goal with a friend. In that way, we can also motivate ourselves to do the resolution because we have a companion who is doing the same goal as well. With friends, we often offer kindness, praise, warmth, and positive feelings, but most people don’t speak to themselves that way. Commit to offering that same kindness and compassion to yourself. Avoid listing those typical resolutions, instead list them as your SMART GOALS to a prosperous new year.

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The Homes of Zee

The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 12

Christmas House No. 12 – Heart-felt Holidays at the Hofers’

Check out why this holiday home is on our list of 12 Cebu homes this season. Zee.ph offers a glimpse of Cebu’s holiday homes from far and wide. Please follow our series as we bring you a different home in the next few days!

Nestled in Banilad, Cebu City, the George Hofer residence stands as testament to enduring elegance. Constructed in the late sixties to early seventies, the mansion exudes timeless charm with warm brown molave wood panels and pristine white marble floors.

Stepping into this grand abode during the Christmas season unveils a journey into a beautifully storied past. This season, Molave wooden entance, intricately carved with the Hofer couple’s monogram, are adorned with opulent yuletide garlands. White velvet poinsettias and persimmon peonies alongside mother of pearl camellias are interspersed with pearlescent berries. Archangel Michael showers the guests with blessings from above, while a macassar ebony wooden effigy of Saint George (slaying the dragon) pays homage to the house owner’s namesake.

Adjacent to a private elevator, a grandiose Christmas tree stands tall, welcoming guests into a sprawling waiting hall. Here, an angel in teal and gold lamé cloth grouped together with exotic blooms gracefully plays the lyre; seemingly entertaining those who await entry.

Further down the hall is an ecru grand piano, where the lady of the house, a skilled pianist, performs Monti’s Czardas, Schubert’s Ständchen, and other rhapsodies on special occasions. A commissioned portrait of George and Dulce hangs on a wall above a console table that separates the hall from the formal dining area.

The Hofer home exudes old-world elegance that is seldom found today, yet its true charm lies in the joyous laughter and warm greetings of the Hofers, who gather annually to share Christmas cheer and delightful yuletide stories in this vibrant space.

The Homes of Zee

The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 11

Christmas House No. 11 – Christine Pelaez

Designed by the noted Cebu architect Teng Jacinto, this expansive residence stands as a testament to the artful curation of Jun Pelaez. Over the years, he has meticulously assembled a collection of artworks, transforming the home into a gallery that reflects his discerning taste and appreciation for the aesthetic.

As the holiday season graces the air, the residence undergoes a festive tone under the artful touch of Jun’s wife, Christine. Embracing tradition, she bathes the home in the classic Christmas palette of reds and greens, infusing each corner with warmth and seasonal charm. The interior becomes a canvas for the holiday spirit, adorned with wreaths, ornaments, and the timeless glow of twinkling lights.

However, the true heart of this home lies in its welcoming spirit. There are two dining rooms, with chairs adorned with red bows and festive centerpieces, where family and friends converge for an equally sumptuous meal.

The Homes of Zee

The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 10

Christmas House No. 10 – The Hudsons’ Christmas Chronicles

The Hudson’s household buzzes with enthusiasm each time the holiday season unfolds. The heart of their Tokyo home, the Hudson Christmas tree, stands tall and proud, adorned with tinsel and cherished trimmings that span the years of their family’s growth. Each ornament tells a story, marking the arrival of a new family member with the annual addition of baubles bearing their names: Mary, George, Victoria and Charles.

Charles, the youngest Hudson at twelve, beams with joy as he proudly places the Christmas star atop the tree. No longer reliant on his father’s shoulders, Charles revels in his newfound height and the welcomed responsibility that comes with it.

In addition to the twinkling blue lights, the festive icons and the white-and-silvery ornaments, another cherished tradition had been completed at the beginning of the joyful season. The Hudson’s much-anticipated Christmas cards, an exciting accountof the family’s adventures, had been creatively crafted by Rose and Karl. The lively narrative chronicles the milestones and quests of each family member, with Karl’s animated storytelling and Rose’s artistic touch bringing the tales to life.

Rose shares, “by mid-November we print two hundred post cards of the Hudson family chronicles. The entire family, from the oldest to the youngest, gathers around to sign each card. Envelopes are lovingly addressed, and the kids lend a hand in labeling.”

In a heartwarming shift of roles, the Hudson parents, Karl and Rose, prepare to pass the baton. The careful planning and distribution of the Christmas cards are soon to become the responsibility of the eager younger generation.

With laughter, love, and a touch of adventure, the Hudson family embraces the season, creating and sharing memories that they and their friends treasure for life.