New Year Resolutions for 2006
My New Year's Resolutions from last year are still valid for any computer user. They included:
- Back up regularly.
- Use a surge protector.
- Install an anti-virus program and update it regularly.
- Download and install program and operating system updates.
- Install a firewall.
- Check for spyware.
- Don't buy from spam.
- Defrag.
- Clean up occasionally.
This year, however, I want to suggest New Year's Resolutions that go beyond the basics. Let's take it to a new level and focus on using your computer and technology to really enhance your life in 2006.
Get Organized
This is the year to get a handle on all the little messes in your life. If you have a ton of sticky notes on your desk, use computerized Stickies from Zhorn Software. This freeware program lets you put sticky reminders right on your computer screen. And you can't help but feel more organized when everything is properly labeled. Try label makers that operate as handhelds or can connect to your computer such as those from Dymo or Brother. They make labeling more fun!Digitize Your Records
Use your computer to document your finances, medical history, insurance policies, and other important information. Mother said, "A place for everything and everything in its place" and computers can help us adhere to that adage. In addition, Hurricane Katrina reminded us how easily and quickly paper documents can be destroyed, so digitizing important documents and records can be a very worthwhile project. Purchase a scanner to create a digital file of important paper documents, including health records, insurance policies, and property titles. Then copy those documents to a CD or DVD and put one copy in a safe deposit box and send another to a friend or relative in another state.Learn to Use Your Equipment
There's always more to learn about your computer, music player, and digital camera. Vow that this year you will actually read the manuals and online help so that you can confidently use the equipment you already own.Save Time and Money When Traveling
Make your travel reservations online. You can even print your own airline boarding passes at home so you don't have to stand in line at the airport.Improve Your Health
Use your computer to research your health conditions. You can also use it to look up diet plans and ways to make your life healthier. Even playing games on the computer can be advantageous for keeping your mind active.Shop in Your Slippers
If you haven't yet tried shopping online, let this be the year. It can save time and money and it's fun.Become a Better Searcher
Learning more about search engines and how they work can save you time and frustration. Finding what you need on the Internet quickly and easily produces a lot of self-satisfaction as well. Search engine home pages usually provide links to instructions on how to use their search more proficiently. Also consider using different tools for your online search.Have Fun with Your Computer
Don't take your computing too seriously. Try some creative printing projects and let your ink jet printer bring some color in your life. Whether it's a new screensaver, animated icons, or decorative desktop wallpaper, always have something on your computer screen that makes you smile.Let's use our computer to get it done and make 2006 the Year of Fruitful Computing!
AARP Resources
2005 New Year Resolutions by Sandy Berger from AARP's Computers and Technology
AARP does not recommend or endorse any of these products or web sites. Please be advised that there are other similar products and web sites available which were not reviewed and are not listed here.
