First and foremost, I’d like to nation a very happy 2011. Ah, a new year. When opportunities seem endless and all the things we’ve been putting off seem easier and more possible. That’s why we have resolutions folks, to recognize and resolve issues we’ve had with our lives or ourselves in the past. But, here’s a thought: instead of looking at these things we want to change as resolutions, why not look at them as goals? By seeing them as goals rather than resolutions we remove the pressure on ourselves to change something immediately. Let’s be honest, 90 percent of the time we can only bear the pressure until February anyways. In fact according to proactivechange.com, only 46 percent of us keep our resolutions passed six months. Goals, on the other hand are something that, by definition, we realize take time to attain and are an important part of living a more fulfilling life. Already feeling more motivated? Good, we are too.
What better place to start then fitness goals? Once holiday season comes to a close and the only memory of the baked goods and yams we devoured over the holidays sits directly on our waistline, the urge to improve our bodies is at an all time high. According to a recent poll conducted by 43things.com, more than one in five resolution makers say losing weight is their number one goal for 2011. Well, ask and you shall receive because our new 30-minute workouts starting in this issue (page 42) will give you all the tips and tools you need to transform your body.
Not a gym kind of guy? Prefer to stay fit with sports and activity? Well we’ve got you covered too. We’re taking a look at two of Ontario’s most popular outdoor winter activities (page 64) that every good Canadian should master. Remember, it’s never too late to learn.
And we certainly didn’t stop the resolutions at fitness. Another common resolution according to the same online poll is falling in love. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner there’s no time like the present to reach out and grab cupid’s arrow. Whether you’re single and want to find that special someone or married and want to rekindle that spark, our Valentine’s Playbook on page 32 will show you how.
What’s our suggestion for a positive change to make in 2011? Commit to more chill time and enlist yourself as a more dedicated Chillosopher. Whether chilling to you means spending more time with your family, grilling up an immaculate meal or catching some rays on your dock, it’s important to consciously make time for what makes you happy this year. That means plan ahead. Sure the summer seems far off, but as your resident Chillosopher, it’s my duty to point out, although the snow is up to our knees right now, sunny skies and cottage trips are just around the corner. Start your summer plans now so when summer rolls in you’ll be ahead of the game. We certainly have with our Chill Gets Wet Preview (page 48). If buying a boat is in the cards for you this year check it out, and even if you’re not planning on buying a boat, use this section as inspiration to start preparing for the summer months.
And don’t think we forgot about all the big events that come with every new year. What kind of show edition would this be if we didn’t include Toronto International AutoShow? Check out our 4th annual AutoShow preview section. Super Bowl? We’ve got everything from Canadian Contributions to the big game (page 14) to a look inside host city Dallas, TX (page 24). And last, but certainly not least, it’s also show time for the entertainment industry. The Oscars and Grammys are two of the entertainment world’s most anticipated events. Who do we think deserves the coveted golden statues? Turn to page 72 to find out and be sure to visit ichill.ca and let us know who you think will win.
Whew, Special Edition indeed. From the spotlight on ourselves with resolutions, ahem, goals, of all shapes and sizes, to the spotlight on our vehicles, our athletes and our entertainers … it really is show season. So, without further ado, lights camera action. It’s show time Chill Nation!
Your friendly neighbourhood Chillosopher,
Scott Stevenson
