The Heights at Signal Hill

Celebrate the Holidays in Signal Hill, CA!

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 08:15:47 GMT

After a long year, it’s finally time to celebrate! And here in Signal Hill, the weather is perfect for a green, temperate holiday season.

No matter what you believe or how you choose to celebrate, you’ll find fun and holiday cheer this year in and around Signal Hill, California! Relax and enjoy holiday decorations, ring in the new year on a superyacht, or enjoy the pleasant sounds of holiday music live in concert! Here are a few highlights of what’s available in the area this year!

Activities

Some people like to decorate, while others want to relax and enjoy the holiday atmosphere of peace and joy. Still others like to party and start the new year with a bang. Whatever kind of person you are, celebrating the holidays in Signal Hill will let you indulge in the holidays exactly how you want.

Naples Annual Holiday Boat Parade: Each year, the Naples Improvement Association puts on the Holiday Boat Parade, a massive parade of festively decorated and lit boats that can be seen from the local restaurants and boardwalks. This year, the decoration theme will be “Christmas Around the World”. Sit down for a nice dinner and watch the boats go by or gather together with friends and family on the boardwalk. The parade takes place on December 16, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.

New Year's Eve Yacht Party : Ring in the new year on Newport Beach’s most luxury yacht: Endless Dreams. Three levels, scenic outdoor decks, lounges, multiple bars, and a large dance floor make this yacht something truly special. Book your tickets now, or you risk missing out. This event has sold out 20 years in a row!

Swedish Christmas Fair : The SWEA (Swedish Women’s Education Association) Christmas Fair is an amazing collection of vendors of handmade gifts, clothing, crafts, fresh baked goods, Christmas decorations, sweets and treats, Swedish-themed art, paintings, food, festivities, and more. You don’t even have to be Swedish to attend!

Shows and Performances

California is an amazing place where people from all around the world come together to form dynamic communities bursting with culture. Signal Hill is no exception. Here are a few of the amazing performances coming to the Signal Hill area this year. Treat yourself to some holiday cheer and get your tickets now!

Los Angeles Symphony Christmas Concert : Los Angeles Symphony presents a holiday concert showcasing classic Opera arias and Christmas music. Maestro Hyun S. Joo leads 50 musicians, a 50-member choir, and featured soloists through stirring renditions of favorite holiday classics. Featuring Soprano Anastasia Malliaras, Baritone Ryan Wolfe, and Tenor Arnold Livingston Geis.

Joy to the World : With music by Emmy Award-winning Composer Kurt Bestor, narration by New York Times Best-selling Author Jason F. Wright, local lyrical and Irish dancers, and the Orange County Coastal Chorus joining Jenny and Family Four, this show promises to usher in an uplifting and celebratory spirit to your Christmas Season!

Merry-Achi Christmas : This traditional Mexican holiday celebration is filled with seasonal songs, dances, and festive holiday performances. Headlining this event is one of the nation’s premier mariachi bands as well as America’s first all-female mariachi band and Sabor Mexico, an amazing dance company.

Shopping

Getting a great gift is almost as satisfying as giving one. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect Christmas tree, searching for an amazing gift for a loved one, or looking to treat yourself to some unique holiday decor, you’ll find just the thing at these holiday stores!

Pura Vida Market - Christmas at the Pike : Taking place Friday, December 1, from 5:30 - 9 PM. Bring the whole crew out for holiday fun in Long Beach, California! Appreciate and shop small from our local vendors with unique items and amazing brands. Take pictures with Mickey Mouse from 7 to 7:30 PM, buy from your local businesses, and eat some delicious food! Dress up in an ugly sweater for free raffle tickets and get into the holiday spirit.

Snowy Pines Christmas Trees : This local institution has been serving southern California for over 45 years and offers noble, grand, Nordmann, and Douglas fir trees, as well as silver tips, affectionately known as Charlie Brown trees. Trees range in size from one foot to 20 feet. Snowy Pines also offers professional flocking and fire-retardant services. They’ll even come and decorate your home if you’d like!

Opportunities to Share

Getting is great, but giving is better! If you don’t have time, give financial support. If you lack funds, give of your time. No matter what your situation, as long as you’re willing, there are ways for you to help others this holiday season.

2023 Holiday Toy Drive for the Ronald McDonald House : This event takes place from November 10 - December 8 in Long Beach, CA. This Christmas season give the gift of joy to the children and families we serve! Help by donating new, unwrapped gifts suitable for boys and girls aged from birth to 18 years old.

UNIVISION Winter Wonderland: TOY DRIVE!: This opportunity to share is much more than a simple toy drive. In addition to receiving a toy, children and families will have access to free haircuts, health screenings, and more. Providing these services to children in need isn’t easy; please consider donating your time or your money to this noble cause. Let’s spread some cheer this year!

Safe Celebration

Everyone loves a good candle this time of year, but thousands of fires are started each year because of candles. Exercise extreme caution when bringing candles into your apartment, especially your bedroom. Battery-powered candles can give the same festive experience without the added danger. Whatever you do, never leave your holiday candles unattended!

Christmas trees can be another fire hazard you need to be wary of. If you’ve brought a real Christmas tree into your apartment during this holiday season, make sure you keep it watered so it isn’t quite as dangerous. Keep all open flames, especially candles, away from the branches, and make sure you turn all lights off when you’re not at home. You never know when electrical issues might cause fires. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

Take a break this holiday season and enjoy the fun and festivities available near Signal Hill, CA. With activities, shows and performances, shopping, and volunteering opportunities everywhere, this season promises to be a festive one. From everyone at The Heights, Happy Holidays!

Signal Hill Spotlight: Fish-O-Licious Seafood Restaurant

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 22:46:00 GMT

Seafood is always better by the ocean. That’s why Signal Hill, California, is the perfect spot for a fast-food seafood restaurant to take off. Fish-O-Licious opened in Signal Hill in 2015 and has since been a big hit. It has received rave reviews for its delicious menu items as well as its speedy service.

If you find yourself in Signal Hill, California, anytime soon, be sure to stop by Fish-O-Licious for a fresh, tasty meal. Read more to learn about their unique take on fast food and to get a glimpse of their mouth-watering menu.

Unique Take on Fast Food: Fresh and Fast

You can find fast food anywhere, but fast food that is also fresh and healthy is much harder to come by. Fish-O-Licious was founded by Salim Khoury , who wanted to bring customers a fine-dining seafood experience at an affordable price and without the long waits of a sit-down restaurant. When you enter the restaurant, you will see a variety of seafood displayed on ice, so you can pick out what you want, and they will cook it up for you. Seafood doesn’t get fresher than that!

Mouth-Watering Menu

Shrimp, calamari, clams, salmon, catfish, trout, halibut, scallops—you name it, they have it. And you can get it in nearly any way, whether you like your seafood broiled, grilled, fried, or even in a taco shell. The Fish-O-Licious menu has so many options, from clam chowder to fish n’ chips to fajitas. And don’t worry: If seafood isn’t your thing, there are plenty of fish-free options as well, such as chicken tenders, salads, grilled zucchini, and more.

One of the customers’ favorite things about Fish-O-Licious is that you can customize your meals. Plus, if you don’t like to meal prep or cook, they offer an option to order customized meals for five days in a row!

Next time you are in Signal Hill, California, stop by Fish-O-Licious for a delightful dining experience. And, if you are looking to stick around Signal Hill and are searching for apartments in the area, check out The Heights Apartments .

Image courtesy of Fish-O-Licious

Unique Summer Activities in Signal Hill, California

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 02:10:00 GMT

It’s summertime in Signal Hill, and there’s no better place to enjoy the season! There are so many fun summer activities in Southern California, and Signal Hill is right in the center of it all. Here are a few unique activities close to Signal Hill that you should definitely try out this summer if you haven’t yet.

Oceanside Hikes

You can find places to hike pretty much anywhere, but how often can you hike by the ocean ? Signal Hill is right by the Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve , which is a vast area with numerous hikes of varying lengths and difficulty levels. The scenery is unbelievable, with vibrant green hills sloping down into the misty blue water.

The Sacred Cove View Trail is another unique spot where you can spot marine wildlife, including sea lions, whales, dolphins, and sea urchins. You can also go cliff jumping and explore the sea caves.

Gorgeous Beaches

What’s a summer without going to the beach? The beaches near Signal Hill are some of the best in Southern California. All within a 20- to 30-minute drive are Seal Beach , Sunset Beach , Huntington City Beach , and Long Beach City Beach . Each of these is a perfect place to swim, surf, relax, play with kids, or enjoy the sunset. Plus, you can do more water activities nearby, such as stand-up paddling in Huntington Harbor .

Farmers Markets

Summer is the best time to get fresh produce from local farmers markets. There are plenty of options close to Signal Hill, but here are a few of the most popular ones:

There are so many unique summer activities to try out near Signal Hill. Here are a few to get you started, and as you discover everything else Signal Hill has to offer, you will never be bored! And if you decide to stay longer, The Heights at Signal Hill offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Signal Hill, CA.

Here’s How Online Rent Payments Can Improve Your Credit Score

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 15:46:00 GMT

What are the benefits of a good credit score? A good credit score can help you access the best credit cards, get insurance discounts, get the lowest interest on loans, and get approved for housing rentals.

We could all benefit from an improved credit score, and doing this is easier than you think! Online rent payment is a simple method for boosting your credit score! Here’s how it works.

Online Rent Payment

Paying rent online is a great way to start improving your credit score. Not only is this more convenient, but it ensures that the rent payments are being recognized and factored into your credit score. At The Heights at Signal Hill , we make this easy for our residents through our online resident portal .

Payment Recognition

Once you have paid your rent online, you need to make sure your payments are recognized by the credit bureaus and calculated into your report. Luckily, we offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. That way, credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time rental payments, which contributes to your good credit.

Payment with Your Credit Card

Finally, using a credit card to pay your online rent payment can be a great way to boost your credit. LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance , advises, “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month. The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

Paying with a credit card isn’t required, but it can be a great way to pay rent while also getting the benefits associated with using a credit card.

There you have it! Through online rent payment, reporting payments to credit bureaus, and using a credit card, you can make the most out of your rent payment and improve your credit score at the same time! Happy credit-score-boosting!

Searching for Signal Hill Apartments? Here’s Why You Should Consider The Heights

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 19:51:00 GMT

As you might guess by its name, Signal Hill is a small city that sits on a hilltop, elevated above the surrounding cities in the Long Beach area. Signal Hill is a wonderful place to live with many attractions nearby, including Sunset County Beach, The Queen Mary museum, the Aquarium of the Pacific , and the Long Beach Museum of Art .

Are you searching for Signal Hill Apartments? The Heights has quality, newly renovated apartments with access to amazing amenities—and it is in a prime location!

Apartment Features

The Heights offers newly updated one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Here are just some of the apartment features:

With these features, The Heights at Signal Hill apartments have everything you need to live comfortably and live happy.

Amenities

The amenities at The Heights include resort-style pools, courtyards, and on-site laundry facilities. For your convenience, they also offer online rental payments and have on-site, on-call maintenance available. Plus, the Heights is also a pet-friendly property, so if you are looking for Signal Hill apartments to move into with a pet, this is the perfect place for you!

Prime Location

Finally, The Heights is located in an optimal spot. It is just a short distance from multiple parks, tasty restaurants, and the beach! Some popular nearby restaurants are Molito’s Grill , Valintina Pizza , and Curleys Cafe . The Heights is also close to the freeway and the airport. So, whether you are looking for great food, entertainment, or transportation, The Heights at Signal Hill is close to it all!

With excellent features, amenities, and location, The Heights might be the perfect place for you. If you are looking for Signal Hill Apartments, check out The Heights today!

Three Local Restaurants to Try in Signal Hill

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 21:52:00 GMT

With so many businesses struggling to survive throughout the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to support local restaurants. As of December 2020, over 110,000 restaurants had closed due to COVID-19 , and that number has only increased since. That equates to 17 percent of all US restaurants that have closed in less than a year.

Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants in Signal Hill that are so delicious that supporting them won’t feel like a chore. Plus, with options for takeout, delivery, curbside pickup, and easy online ordering, you can enjoy their yummy food without risking your health. Here are three of our favorite local restaurants that we think you should try near The Heights .

Blackbird Cafe

The owner of Blackbird Cafe is passionate about creating a restaurant where people can connect over great food and a fun atmosphere. Her unique but simple menu features a variety of delicious options, from soy chorizo wraps to teriyaki chicken sandwiches and poutine tater tots, so you’ll never run out of fun dishes and combinations to try. If you need a recommendation for breakfast, we absolutely love their breakfast burritos, which are filled with golden and crispy hashbrowns. But, no matter the time of day, you are sure to find something that will hit the spot.

Rocco’s Deli Italiano

Rocco’s Deli Italiano is our favorite authentic Italian restaurant in the area, and with their homemade pasta and Italian sandwiches, it’s easy to see why. You can customize a sandwich, and they will make it right in front of your eyes, or you can simply order a dish from their extensive menu. We especially recommend the lasagne, which is made of pasta imported from Italy! You can order online for delivery or pickup, or even order catering for your next socially distanced gathering.

Shin Restaurant

Shin Restaurant features a wide range of Japanese and Thai dishes that are sure to make your mouth water. With a variety of ramen, curry, and rice bowls, as well as sushi dishes, you are sure to find an option that you love. If that’s not enough to convince you, they even have authentic drinks like Thai iced tea.

Shin Restaurant has recently expanded their services to include an online ordering platform, so you can now easily order pickup or delivery without leaving your couch.

With these three local restaurants in Signal Hill, you are sure to find a new favorite only minutes away from your home. If you end up trying Blackbird Cafe, Rocco’s Deli, or Shin Restaurant, we would love to hear what you think!

Three Tips for Setting Powerful Goals

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 00:21:00 GMT

The start of a new year is a great opportunity to reflect on the progress of your life and set some New Year’s resolutions. According to psychiatrist Glenn Miller , “the start of a new calendar year creates changes in our mind set. . . . A new year marks the revival and new beginning.” We are inspired by the idea of a clean slate and the endless possibilities ahead of us, but often, we fall short of the goals we set for ourselves.

Have you ever made a New Year’s resolution that you broke before the end of the year, or maybe even on the first day? We all have. The most important step to accomplishing our goals is creating ones we can actually achieve, so here are a few tips to help you along the way. Remember, you’re powerful, and you can do anything you set your mind to!

Reflect on Your Dreams and Desires

All too often, we set goals based on the expectations of those around us. We hear our family members talk about finally working out enough to get a visible six-pack and decide we need to add that to our list of resolutions, too. You can never have too many goals, right? Wrong .

When we reflect on what we want in our lives, our goals are likely to be much different than those around us. The first step to setting a powerful goal you will actually achieve is prioritizing what you want most in life. Take some time to think about how you define success. Are you most successful when you’re at your happiest? When you’re at your busiest? When you’re most active or most social? Knowing what makes you feel most satisfied in your life will help you choose goals that are right for you.

Set SMART Goals

Setting goals we can achieve also means following the SMART acronym. First coined by George T. Dorian , he wrote out these guidelines to outline five important elements that are necessary in order for a goal to be reachable. According to these criteria, each of your goals should hit the following points:

Reward Yourself for Your Accomplishments

A great way to keep yourself motivated while you achieve your goals is to continue rewarding yourself. According to Charles Duhigg , the author of The Power of Habit , breaking and forming habits relies on the three parts of a habit: the cue, routine, and reward. The key to getting new habits to stick is adapting the reward to give ourselves something we enjoy enough to motivate us to stick with it.

Need ideas on how to reward yourself? Here is a list of possible rewards you can give yourself that won’t break your budget.

You don’t have to grow accustomed to setting powerful goals and never achieving them. With these three tips, you will find yourself able to accomplish anything you set your mind to.

Why The Heights at Signal Hill Is the Perfect Place for You and Your Pets

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 19:22:00 GMT

We agree with two-thirds of US households: Pets make a great addition to your life! But we also know it can be difficult to find a place that’s accommodating to pet ownership. Not all communities welcome pets, and even those that do aren’t guaranteed to give your pet the space and features it needs to be happy.

That’s why furry family members of many kinds are welcome at The Heights at Signal Hill. Here’s what pets do for us and how our community serves them in return:

We Love Pets

We believe that pets are an essential part of life. They provide companionship and can make your life better in so many ways. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and WALTHAM Petcare Science Institute , people who own pets experience better health, both physically and mentally:

Also, pet owners have more opportunities for exercise and socializing (think dog parks). The garden pathways in our community are the perfect place to walk your four-legged friends, and our Pet Waste Stations make cleaning up a breeze!

We Have Nearby Dog Beaches and More

In addition to walking paths, Signal Hill and nearby Long Beach boast many amenities for pets.

We Welcome More Than Dogs

Not a dog person? Not a problem! We also allow cats, as well as smaller pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, and reptiles, which must be caged and kept in a sanitary condition. Additional or other pets must be approved by the management. We also have breed restrictions due to size and behavior traits. Only authorized pets with the owner’s approval are allowed on the premises.

The Heights at Signal Hill is the right place for you and your furry family member. With a welcoming apartment community as well as nearby pet-friendly beaches and amenities, you’ll feel right at home! Check out our community online , and then book a tour to see how you’ll fit in at The Heights at Signal Hill.

The Three Top Pros of Renting

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 16:57:00 GMT

More than 100 million people around the US realize the pros of renting in homes, apartments, and other properties. According to the 2019 American Community Survey , renters now make up 35.9 percent of all households in the US.

People have many reasons for choosing to rent over buying. More and more people, though, are seeing the pros of renting and never want to make the switch to homeownership! Renting means fewer responsibilities, it costs less than purchasing a home, and renters have more freedom. Read on for more pros of renting.

Lower Long-Term and Upfront Expenses

Insurance, taxes, maintenance, repairs—these are all ongoing and changing costs of homeownership. The amounts can vary by year or even month and can hit you when you least expect—or need—them. Renters, though, know how much they’re going to pay every month. In a recent survey , 84 percent of renters said that renting is more affordable than buying.

Upfront costs for renters are significantly lower than they are for buyers. In most cases, they pay a security deposit equal to one month’s rent. If they don’t damage the property, they usually get it back when they move. Buyers, though, are less fortunate: In most cases, buyers need to come up with 20 percent of the purchase price as a downpayment. On a $300,000 home, that’s $60,000.

There are also the ongoing costs of homeownership. There’s maintenance as well as repairing and replacing appliances and parts of the home. Then there are property taxes, which change every year—usually going up. Also, insurance is more expensive. According to the Insurance Information Institute , the average homeowner’s policy is $1,211 annually, while the average renter’s policy is only $180 per year.

No Repairs or Maintenance

Has your water heater ever given up the ghost? Or has your air conditioner conked out on a hot summer day? When you own a house, you’re responsible for finding a reputable and affordable repair shop or doing the work yourself. If you live in a rental, you don’t need to worry. At The Heights at Signal Hill , our skilled staff is on call when you have an emergency or need maintenance. When you let us know about your issue, our expert team will ensure you won’t need to worry. Isn’t that better than trying to do—and pay—for everything yourself?

You Can Move When You Want

Another one of the pros of renting is that you have more freedom to move. When you buy a home, you’re tied down to a mortgage for the next 30 years. But when you rent, your lease is much shorter. “Regardless of age, mobility is one of the top reasons people decide to rent,” Robert Pinnegar writes in The Washington Post . “For millennials just entering the workforce or in the process of building their careers, the ability to relocate is a major factor. Even if they are in a financial position to purchase a home, millennials may choose to rent to have the flexibility to take advantage of new job opportunities as they arise.”

We’re never happy to say goodbye to our tenants, but at The Heights at Signal Hill, we want them to be happy wherever they end up. That’s the reason behind our loyalty bonus. If you move to The Heights at Signal Hill from another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you $250.

More and more people see the pros of renting—more freedom, lower costs, and fewer responsibilities. At The Heights at Signal Hill , we want to make sure that coming home is the best part of every day. Visit us and see for yourself the pros of renting.

Pay Rent Online and Build Credit at the Same Time

Sat, 08 Aug 2020 05:04:00 GMT

Are you wondering how to build credit? Great news: You can pay rent online to do just that!

In 2017, TransUnion conducted a study wherein 12,000 renters reported their rental payments to the credit bureaus. The outcome was a 16-point credit score increase on average, and changes took effect within six months! Those who had beginning scores below 620 saw the biggest increase in points.

If you’d like to see a similar effect on your credit score, start paying your rent online! Doing so adds your rent payments to your credit report, offers credit bureaus the information they need, and can be used with credit card payments for better score gains. Wondering how this works? Read on!

Offers Credit Bureaus the Information They Need

While your credit score can vary depending on which credit bureau you ask, they all look at the same basic information. Experian, for example, determines credit scores through the following elements :

When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. As you pay on-time and in-full and continue to do so, that becomes part of your score, too.

Adds Your Rent Payments to Your Credit Report

“Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

So what do you need to do to make sure these rent payments are reported? At The Heights at Signal Hill , our online rental payment system takes care of the work for you! In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Use with Credit Card Payments for Better Score Gains

To boost your score even more, using a credit card specifically to pay your rent may be something worth considering. “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.” You don’t have to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can be a nice little boost to your credit score in combination with the benefits of paying your rent online.

Give your credit score a boost by paying your rent online through the resident portal . As you do so, it adds your rent payments to your credit report, offering credit bureaus the information they need. Additionally, if you choose to use a credit card to pay rent online, you’ll see even better score gains! Happy credit-score-boosting!

Celebrate National Bagelfest Day By Eating at One of These Bagel Stores Nearby

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 19:15:00 GMT

The 204.91 million Americans who ate bagels last year can’t be wrong! Bagels are awesome! Here at The Heights, we’re giving you even more permission to indulge in these circular delights. National Bagelfest Day is coming up on July 26, so celebrate the day and support local businesses by eating at one of these bagel stores nearby:

Bixby Joe

4245 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90807

A recent reviewer wrote, “Their bagel sandwiches are my favorite thing!!!!!” That’s five exclamation marks, folks! Any bagel shop that can get their patrons that sincerely excited about their menu deserves a visit from you! Reviewers recommend Bixby Joe’s everything and cheese bagels or their sprouts bagel sandwich with vegan cream cheese. Sounds creamy . . . errr, dreamy!

Cassidy’s Corner Cafe

3846 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90807

Cassidy’s Corner Cafe’s newest location is in Bixby Knolls! Touted as “best” in multiple reviews, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed by this way to celebrate National Bagelfest Day! Check out the Joe Special or Lox Bagel Sandwich. The jalapeño cream cheese is another must! Don’t be afraid to ask for the “fattest” bagel, either; “Ask and you shall receive,” according to one visitor. Sounds promising!

5th Ave Bagelry

247 Pine Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802

This nearby shop has “tons of bagel and menu options, even including some unexpected surprises like muffins, smoothies, and boba!” The Fifth Avenue Bagel Sandwich—complete with lox, cream cheese, tomato, red onion, and capers—seems to be one of the big winners on the menu! Baked fresh daily, their best selling bagel varieties are purportedly blueberry and salt, although cheddar jalapeño has a few shout-outs too. Don’t forget to ask for a stamp card to earn rewards!

Clearly, there are plenty of great options to assist you in celebrating National Bagelfest Day around Signal Hill! And don’t feel like you have to pick just one—try all of the bagel stores nearby! Regardless of where you end up on National Bagelfest Day, we’d love to hear all about it on Facebook !

Want to Volunteer for Beach Cleanup? Here’s How

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 18:04:00 GMT

“Three in four Californians (77%) say the condition of the ocean and beaches is very important to California’s future economy and quality of life,” according to the Public Policy Institute of California . If you agree but aren’t exactly sure what you can do to ensure our oceans and beaches are taken care of, read on!

Every summer, The Heights at Signal Hill joins AMC for its annual beach cleanup day. Even though 2020’s social distancing requirements won’t allow us all to clean up the beach together, the tradition continues.

On July 25, let’s each head down to the beach, or even a nearby park, with our household members to pick up the trash that threatens our beaches and the wildlife. If we each do our part, our small efforts will combine to yield great results for our beautiful California beaches and parks! Here’s why beach cleanup matters and what you’ll need to do to prepare.

Why Beach Cleanup Matters to Us

Cleaning up beaches and parks is satisfying, helps wildlife and the economy, and is a good activity for a healthy lifestyle.

“There is satisfaction to say, ‘I removed ten pounds of trash from my beach,’” says Kara Lavender Law, a research oceanography professor. “Even if it’s only ten pounds, that’s ten pounds that isn’t going to go into the open ocean.”

In addition to protecting wildlife, “clean beaches provide economic benefit to local communities in the form of tourism dollars,” says Laura Parker at National Geographic . “In southern California, researchers calculated that in Orange County alone that potential could translate into $46 million in just one summer.”

Whether you head to Signal Hill or Hilltop Parks or take a trip to Seal Beach or Long Beach, your cleanup efforts are important and needed! As an added bonus, beach and park cleanup doubles nicely as a unique workout!

Supplies You’ll Need on July 25

Once you’ve marked your calendar for the July 25 cleanup, it’s time to move forward with preparations. On top of a reusable water bottle and quick-energy snacks, add these supplies to your list:

Safety during COVID-19

With pandemic guidelines still in place, your cleanup crew might be small this year, with just your roommates or immediate family members lending a hand. If you’re expanding the invitation to extended family and friends, follow this CDC advice: “When guests arrive, minimize gestures that promote close contact. For example, don’t shake hands, do elbow bumps, or give hugs. Instead wave and verbally greet them.” In keeping with California’s mask mandate , wear your mask “when maintaining a physical distance of 6 feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.”

Keeping our beaches and parks clean is important to Californians and to our state’s future! Time spent cleaning the parks and beaches is time well spent. So join us for our beach cleanup day on July 25 or anytime during the month of July! Tag The Heights at Signal Hill in your photos and use the hashtags #AMCcleanup and #livehappy. We can’t wait to see the difference we’ll make together—yet six feet apart!

3 Fun Fourth of July Crafts That Can Be Made Indoors

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 21:46:00 GMT

The Fourth of July is right around the corner. While this year’s celebration in Signal Hill may be different due to social distancing guidelines , there are still plenty of festivities to participate in. Bring the celebration indoors by covering your apartment in patriotic decor. Here are three Fourth of July crafts for the kids and the adults to kick off your celebration.

1. Simple Patriotic Mason Jars

Add a splash of patriotism to your kitchen table, bookcase, or windowsill with these festive mason jars. Here are the items you need:

Cut a piece of burlap the length of the circumference of the jar. Wrap it around the jar and secure it with glue dots (hot glue works just as well). Next, take your ribbon tightly around the jar. You can get fancy and make a bow or simply glue the ends together. Finally, fill your jars with red, white, and blue flowers. Alternatively, you can place battery-powered tea lights in the mason jars to create cute, shabby, and chic lanterns.

2. Bandana Star Garland

Add some American flair to your apartment with this beautiful bandana star garland . Drape it above your couch or use it as a table runner. Make sure you have the following items on hand:

Take a star-shaped stencil and trace it onto patriotic-themed bandana-print scrapbook paper using a pencil. Cut the star shapes out with scissors and punch a hole at the top of each star using a hole puncher. String the stars together with twine or string, and hang the decoration in the desired location. It’s that easy!

3. Patriotic Lollipop Topiary

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious craft, this one’s for you! These lollipops create the look of a topiary. We recommend making extra lollipops in case you or your child can’t resist snacking on a few. Here are the items you need for this project :

Simply place the styrofoam ball inside your container (you may need to glue it to the container if it doesn’t fit securely inside). Insert the tootsie pops into the styrofoam ball. It’s best to work in lines to create a tight design without gaps. Continue inserting lollipops until the styrofoam ball is covered and the design is complete!

Whether you are hosting a small Fourth of July social distancing gathering or staying indoors with your immediate family, participate in the festivities by making the above crafts! Your apartment will look patriotic, and your kids will thoroughly enjoy the red and blue tasty lollipop treats.

3 Foods That Improve Brain Health

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 02:52:00 GMT

The old adage says, “You are what you eat.” This has been supported over and over again by research: If you eat healthy foods, you become healthier . The research also shows that this includes your brain health. So, without further ado, here are three foods to consume that will benefit your mind:

Green, Leafy Vegetables

Want to slow cognitive decline? Kale, spinach, collards, chard, and bok choy are examples of green, leafy vegetables that may do just that. It’s the vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene in these foods that contribute to the brain benefits . In general, darker greens yield more nutrients than their lighter counterparts.

It’s easy to bump up your consumption of leafy greens; they can be added to many of your existing dishes without altering the taste significantly. For example, adding extra leafy greens to your frittata, smoothie, burrito, or pizza will generally maintain the taste profile while boosting nutrition. Get creative and enjoy a fresh spin on your favorite meals.

Berries

Eating berries to care for your mind? To date, this might just be the easiest healthy habit to adopt! Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and cranberries have all shown positive impacts on brain aging. The antioxidant boosting and inflammation-reducing properties of berries are two of the contributors to these effects. Increase your intake by adding berries to oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, or a sweet salad. We can all agree that these are also great standalone snacks!

Walnuts

Walnuts contain a high amount of an important Omega-3 fatty acid called DHA. Consumption of DHA has been linked to brain health in humans from infancy, onward. According to BrainHQ , “DHA has been shown to protect brain health in newborns, improve cognitive performance in adults, and prevent or ameliorate age-related cognitive decline.” Add these superfoods into your homemade hummus, sprinkle them on a salad, or even mix them into desserts.

It sounds like a no-brainer—add these three foods to your grocery cart the next time you’re at your favorite local farmers market around Signal Hill! By consuming these items, you’ll be feeding your mind the nutrients it needs to remember a whole lot more for years to come!

Help Preserve Your Apartment’s Clean Air With One of These Three Plants

Fri, 29 May 2020 18:20:00 GMT

Air pollution is a major issue and can damage our health. Since Americans spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, the air quality of our homes is very important—more important than the air outside. Air pollution is caused by a number of factors, but thankfully, there are ways to clean your indoor air, starting with the plants you purchase. Here are three plants you should consider adding to your decor to preserve your apartment’s clean air.

1. Gerbera Daisies

These beauties can add a splash of color to your apartment while cleaning your air. In a NASA study , gerbera daisies were found to remove formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. In addition to their cleaning properties, they are easy to care for ; all they need is some sunlight. The best part is that they aren’t harmful to your pets or the little ones.

2. Warneckii

Warneckii is a beautiful succulent with pointy leaves proven to remove toxins from the air. It is also easy to care for and grows well in both low and high levels of light. Succulents are desert plants and don’t require a lot of water, so be careful not to overwater them. Also, try to keep it away from dogs and cats, as it is known to be slightly toxic to them.

3. Mass Cane

The mass cane plant, also known as the corn plant, is extremely effective in removing chemicals from the air —particularly formaldehyde. If you could only choose one plant to grow in your home, this should be it. It’s minimal-maintenance, making for a great beginner plant. It prefers indirect bright light, but low light is fine as well. The best part is that you only have to water it once per week. Note that this plant can be mildly toxic to cats and dogs, so keep it away from your furry friends.

Adding plants to your indoor living spaces improves the aesthetics of your home while preserving clean air. Choose one (or more) of the three plants above that fit best with your lifestyle, and let it work it’s magic! Your apartment’s air will be cleaner in no time.

Three Important Facts You Should Know about Melanoma This Summer

Thu, 28 May 2020 18:31:00 GMT

Summer is coming! And so is that classic, sunkissed look. Having glowing, bronzed skin might be the iconic summer image, but it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. The associated cost, of course, is the risk of getting melanoma or other skin cancers. Here are three facts you should know about melanoma before you soak up the UV rays this summer:

1. Sunburns increase your risk of melanoma.

Your chances of getting melanoma double if you’ve had five or more sunburns. In other words, choose to use sunscreen to protect your skin from burns or other sun exposure. Not only will your skin be spared a run-in with skin cancer, but it will also endure fewer premature aging signs, such as wrinkles and sunspots. Bonus points are given for choosing a mineral-based sunscreen instead of a chemical-laden one. Mineral sunscreens have come a long way, so you can easily find a good one that will both protect and effortlessly rub into your skin without leaving a white residue behind.

2. Tanning beds increase your risk.

If you’re planning to use tanning beds to ramp up your glow for the summer season or an upcoming trip, the stats are not in your favor: Your risk of melanoma increases by 75 percent if you use tanning beds. Instead, opt for sunless tanning options. This is another product category that has seen a lot of improvement over the years. Whether you opt for an at-home kit or a professionally applied spray tan, you can have beautifully bronzed skin without the sun damage. Just be sure to do your research and, whenever possible, pick the sunless tanning product that has the safest ingredients .

3. Melanoma is completely treatable if it’s caught early.

If you’ve already been a little rough on your skin due to sun exposure and damage, don’t fret. The five-year survival rate for melanoma that is caught in the first stage is 99 percent ! Schedule a yearly all-over skin check-up so you and your doctor can track any changes to your skin. Many tests and treatments can even be done in-office during your routine check-up.

As you’re going about your summer fun this year, remember to include sunscreen, sunless tanning, and regular check-ups with your dermatologist in your plans. Your skin will thank you in the form of reduced risk of skin cancer, as well as fewer wrinkles and sunspots. We’ll call that “skin-for-the-win”!

If You Want to Be a Good Neighbor, Follow These Five Rules

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 23:23:00 GMT

On February 19, 1968, Fred Rogers first looked into the camera and uttered his immortal invitation: “ Won’t you be my neighbor? ” Our concept of what it means to be neighborly has evolved in the following 50 years, but as we huddle separately in our homes, the value of a good neighbor has never been more apparent. Some kind acts can blossom into lifelong friendships. Want to be a better neighbor? Try these six basic rules.

Nobody expects total silence from your apartment. Parents in particular can only dream of a quiet homelife nowadays. Children roughhousing, pets barking, the hum of power tools used in your long-neglected DIY projects—all these come together to form the soundscape of your home. Let’s face it: living life means making noise. However, you can limit when that soundscape occurs. Wait until 9 a.m. before rocking out to your favorite “clean the apartment” playlist. After 9 p.m., turn the volume down on that action movie. Keep your neighbors in mind and keep the noise down.

Respect is a two-way street. Your neighbors may be trying their best to keep it down, but if you overhear something not intended for you, forget it. Keep it private. No one wants to live in a community plagued by gossip and rumor.

Notice someone new moving in? Welcome them to the community! Though always appreciated, a housewarming gift isn’t needed or expected. Folks moving in aren’t always looking for a pineapple, plate of cookies, or a loaf of bread; what they need to know more than anything else is who the friendly faces are in their immediate vicinity.

Puppies, cats, and birds are great icebreakers, and pets can often bring a community together. Just make sure your neighbors are united in admiration—not contempt—for your animal; no one wants to be the lady with the annoying yipping dog. Train your pets and make sure they behave well for your community’s sake.

All of the rules thus far have been to remain mindful of your neighbors. No one wants to get dragged into a spat with the guy next door. Avoid conflict when possible, but if your neighbors aren’t behaving with courtesy and respect, be kind but assertive when discussing it directly with them. If the issue remains unresolved, seek out the correct process in responding and settling the issue.

That’s all there is to it! Simply follow these basic rules, and you’ll have the folks next door singing along:

Won’t you be mine?

Won’t you be my neighbor?

5 Volunteer Opportunities in Your City This Spring

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 04:19:00 GMT

Did you know that engaging in volunteer work can decrease stress and the risk of depression ? It can help you stay physically fit, stay socially connected, and even live a longer life. These all sound like fantastic benefits—benefits we could really use amidst the current Coronavirus quarantine. Worry not: just because you are stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t volunteer! Here are five ways you can volunteer in your city this spring:

1. Donate Extras

There are many needs right now due to the current state of the pandemic and its related economic pressures. If you have extra or unwanted food items, personal hygiene products, diapers, baby wipes, or toilet paper, consider donating them to a food bank. You can find your local food bank through this link .

2. Reach Out to the Lonely

There are plenty of people who are feeling lonely during these stay-at-home orders. Who in your network could use a text, call, or hilarious meme or video clip to bring a smile to their face? Go a step further and contact a local assisted living center to see if they have any senior residents who would like a new penpal. This is a great time to connect with old friends and make new ones (virtually, for now).

3. Sew Face Masks

There is currently a shortage of medical masks in hospitals and other medical care facilities due to the Coronavirus Pandemic. To boost supply, medical facilities are now asking the public to help out by sewing face masks. Here’s a link to the information you’ll need to get started .

4. Donate Food Gift Cards to Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers are risking their lives around the clock to combat the Coronavirus. We can help them keep their strength up by giving them a nutritious meal. Although the dine-in sections of restaurants are closed , many drive-through, takeout, and food truck delivery options are still available. A gift card donation for healthcare workers will double as a way to support your local restaurants as well.

5. Partner with Established Organizations

There are several organizations that provide volunteer opportunities to you through completely virtual means. Just pick a cause that aligns with your values and skillset, and begin! Here is a list of 25 remote volunteering jobs , with links to the related organizations.

Don’t let the quarantine stop you from reaching out to others! In fact, being stuck at home might provide you with the perfect opportunity to get started on your volunteering journey. Not only will you be helping others, but your own body, mind, and caring heart will benefit as well!

Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 23:34:00 GMT

Kindness. We just can’t get enough of it. Millions of us click on viral posts of random acts online: people proudly post images of the exorbitant tip left to an unsuspecting waitress or videos of a rescue team saving a horse from drowning. Even today’s workplaces are exploring the emotional effects of kind acts among coworkers.

“Office culture can be cutthroat and competitive, leading to hurtful criticism, lack of collaboration, and miscommunication,” says Dr. Pragya Agarwal . “However, now we are increasingly talking about wellbeing in the workplace, and bringing an authentic quality to our work, being gentle with ourselves, and with others around us.”

Research shows kindness and well-being are closely linked. Although the benefits to the recipients of kind acts are evident, science is uncovering connections between kindness and one’s health and overall happiness.

If you need an incentive to take the high road when you interact with people, here are four healthy and happy rewards for choosing kindness.

1. Improves Heart Health

There’s a reason why kind people are known for having big hearts—literally. According to Dr. David R. Hamilton , the emotional reaction to acts of kindness release the hormone oxytocin.

“Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide in blood vessels, which dilates (expands) the blood vessels,” explains Hamilton. “This reduces blood pressure and therefore oxytocin is known as a ‘cardioprotective’ hormone because it protects the heart (by lowering blood pressure).” So it seems science proves that having a heart is actually good for it, too.

How can you reap these heart-health benefits? Plenty of studies have shown that social support is associated with better health, including cardiovascular health. So get out there in the community, make friends with your neighbors, and see how it benefits your heart—emotionally and physically.

2. Reduces the Risk of Depression

A study headed by Stephen Post of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that when we share our time, resources, and other selfless acts, everything from life satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly improved. Mortality is delayed, depression is reduced, and wellbeing and good fortune are increased.

At Cedars-Sinai , scientists are studying the links between kindness and increased dopamine levels. As dopamine is known for elevating feelings of euphoria, research is focused on the effects dopamine has on mental health.

“Mindfulness-based therapy is becoming increasingly popular for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions,” say doctors at Cedars-Sinai. “The therapy is built on mindfulness meditation, documenting your gratitude, and acts of kindness. People being treated in a mindfulness-based therapy program incorporate acts of kindness into their daily routines.”

Essentially, practicing kindness increases your dopamine levels, which ultimately helps improve your overall happiness and health.

3. Reduces Anxiety

In a study published by the University of British Columbia Study , a test group comprised of highly anxious individuals performed at least six acts of kindness a week. After one month, there was a significant increase in positive moods and relationship satisfaction, as well as a decrease in social avoidance in socially anxious individuals. The act itself didn’t need to be big to be effective. Kind acts took larger forms like donating to a favorite charity and small gestures such as putting a quarter in a stranger’s parking meter that was about to expire.

“We found that any kind act appeared to have the same benefit, even small gestures like opening a door for someone or saying ‘thanks’ to the bus driver,” says Dr. Lynn Alden, who led the study. “Kindness didn’t need to involve money or time-consuming efforts, although some of our participants did do such things. Kindness didn’t even need to be ‘face to face.’”

In other words, it isn’t the size of the act that promotes happy feelings but the act itself. When anxiety creeps in, try being more kind. Doing so can help reduce your anxious feelings and replace them with positive ones.

4. May Extend Your Lifespan

Some experts believe one of the keys to a long life is our social network. “What we call loneliness—the feeling that you have no one to turn to, that no one understands you—is a form of stress,” explains Health.com writer Ray Hainer . “And if it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on your blood vessels and heart.” With heart disease being the number one killer among Americans, the connection between improved heart health and avoiding stress contributes to a longer life.

Socializing with purpose also has healthy effects. “People who volunteer tend to experience fewer aches and pains,” writes Christ i ne Carter in her book Raising Happiness; In Pursuit of Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. “People 55 and older who volunteer for two or more organizations have an impressive 44% lower likelihood of dying early, and that’s after sifting out every other contributing factor, including physical health, exercise, gender, habits like smoking, marital status and many more. This is a stronger effect than exercising four times a week or going to church.”

Looking for a new strategy for better health and happiness? Try kindness. Studies show that performing kind acts have a positive effect on everything from reducing depression and anxiety to longevity. “We all seek a path to happiness,” says Dr. Waguih William IsHak, a professor of psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai . “Practicing kindness toward others is one we know works.”

The surprisingly wonderful benefits of rental living

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 20:51:00 GMT

If you are considering moving into an apartment, you are not alone. Experts estimate there are just over 43 million renter-occupied housing units in the US. And while renters are renting for a variety of reasons, there are some common perks that renters enjoy.

Here are four of the most common benefits of rental living.

1. Location, location, location

Sometimes, the easiest way to live close to the communities you frequent isn’t to buy property, but to rent. “Renters can live virtually anywhere—a tiny apartment in Greenwich Village or a townhouse in Queens,” says professor of economics Teresa Ghilarducci . “Homeowners are more restricted to neighborhoods they can afford.”

There are certainly times when paying rent over is more expensive than paying a mortgage. For example, many renters will see their lease increase the moment their contract is up for renewal. But in some cases, experts say there are financial advantages to renting in desired locations rather than trying to buy property. “If you live in a market where you can rent an apartment for substantially less per month than you could own a home, you can invest the difference,” explains David Weliver , founder of Money Under 30. “The difference doesn’t have to be huge.”

Weliver presented an example like this: If you compare $1,000 rent per month versus a $1,300 mortgage payment on a comparable home, that generates $3,600 each year that you can save or invest. “And, unlike home equity, those savings are liquid,” added Weliver. “You can use them to build an emergency fund, pay down student loan debt, or fund a retirement account. None of which you can do with home equity.”

2. Awesome amenities

Most of us haven’t included installing an in-ground pool on our to-do list. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t enjoy having access to recreational amenities like a swimming pool, a fitness center, or tennis courts. And today’s rental properties are offering even more options to entice would-be renters.

Some of the more popular features include onsite laundry facilities or a washer and dryer within the unit. Many offer cable or satellite television and free Wi-Fi. Others offer fully-furnished units. And as a person just starting out on their own, having options for these types of services can help the transition to apartment living.

3. Flexible career options

The workplace model is changing, with more employees at varying job levels working from their homes. Experts estimate that almost half of the US workforce works remotely. But that also means employees are more mobile. And that is where the convenience of renting a home or apartment works well. Renting gives workers the freedom to move more frequently than they could otherwise. Additionally, some apartment communities offer amenities for workers. In some of our communities, for example, we offer dedicated workspaces, perfect for individuals who work remotely.

Have job, will travel. That’s an effective way to set the pace for job promotion or move to a better job opportunity should the need arise. “You need to be able to credibly leave a job to be well treated by employers,” says Ghilarducci . “Mobile workers can move for a pay raise or to make a career move.”

4. A sense of community

There are varying degrees of socializing among renters. You can be as social or reclusive as you choose; the fact remains that you are sharing common space with other people. Whether it’s the parking lot, the pool area, or the fitness center, apartment living offers a unique opportunity to befriend your neighbors.

“Apartment buildings draw an array of residents and visitors. Your neighbors, their families, their friends, their delivery people, and anyone offering an at-home service will pass through your shared entryway. Your children will learn to share a space with these people—and perhaps even open the door for them,” says Natalie Saaris , writing for Zillow. “While living in an apartment may deprive you of the privacy of a standalone home, the feeling of community may more than compensate for the loss.”

Whether your apartment is a temporary arrangement or a permanent decision, the benefits of apartment living offer pleasant and financially strategic opportunities for you.

Reasons why setting goals is a good thing

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 15:03:00 GMT

Don’t let New Year’s resolution failure fool you. Setting goals is a good thing.

Let’s talk about goals.

Wait! Not New Year’s resolutions. I mean regular, everyday goal setting; those goals that you can (and should) start at any time. Although around 80 percent of us fail to achieve our New Year’s resolutions, setting a goal—a SMART goal—will make you feel better. And in some cases, literally.

A SMART goal is a task based on something Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. And while resolutions may bite the dust two months after we set them in place, the truth is that almost half of us (40 to 45 percent) continue to make goals for ourselves each year.

We, as humans, struggle with following through on New Year’s resolutions. But the practice of continually setting goals is a good thing. Here are six reasons why.

Do you know how it feels to merely coast through life, where you find yourself simply reacting to things? When you target your energies into achieving a specific goal, you are forcing action.

“ Goal setting helps you align focus with behavior because you get feedback on your progress,” says Forbes contributor Jeff Boss . “The actions you take—or avoid—offer clues about your values, beliefs, challenges, strengths and weaknesses which allow you to course correct as necessary and reset your goal achievement strategy (and subsequently, your focus).”

Goals that truly make an impact are those that are specific and follow a timeline toward completion. For example, instead of making a goal to be thinner, a well-thought-out goal will include a series of smaller goals that encourage weight loss and are arranged over a month, a year, or two even years.

“ Think of your goal as the destination. Now think of each step you take toward that goal as a smaller yet attainable step to get you there,” explains Dave Richards , a performance and leadership coach. “If your goal is to launch a business someday, your smaller steps would include defining your products or services or getting funds to start up.”

There is no better feeling than one of accomplishment. And when you set attainable goals, your success at achieving those goals is an incredible boost to your self-esteem. Keep in mind the operative word here is “attainable.”

“By setting goals and achieving them, you send a signal to your brain that you are successful which builds confidence and pride in yourself and that helps build your self-esteem,” says Jennifer Silvershein . “We all love to feel accomplished and meeting or exceeding your goals does just that.”

By setting up a primary goal, which is your main objective, and secondary goals, which are the stepping stones that move you toward your primary goal, Silvershein believes “you can set yourself up for success with the right mindset and the right tools.”

This process of identifying a primary goal that’s supported by secondary goals boosts your self-image. But it can also stave off mild forms of depression. “ Setting goals and targets can sometimes help when a person is feeling demotivated,” reports Jayne Leonard . “However, it is important to make sure that goals are achievable, specific, and realistic.”

For instance, a goal to no longer be depressed may not be all that successful as a stand-alone goal. But setting a goal that is proven to help treat minor forms of depression, such as to eat two servings of fruits and vegetables every day or exercise daily, makes reducing or eliminating depression an added benefit to your primary goal, which may be losing twenty pounds. This brings us to the next benefit: your health.

Of Inc.com’s ten top New Year’s resolutions of 2019, five dealt with improving our health. So while we may not always follow through on those resolutions, they are certainly on our minds. In fact, out of the 2,000 people surveyed, 71 percent of them wanted to eat healthier in the coming year. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed planned to exercise more, and over half (54 percent) hoped to lose weight. Whether you are a fan of New Year’s resolutions or not, making conscious goals about lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on your overall health.

“Staying engaged in life as you age is essential for your health,” say experts at Harvard Health . “Goals should revolve around a purpose in your life: What matters to you now? What is important?” Once again, setting up a SMART goal will help connect your goals with a meaningful outcome within a specified amount of time. And when it comes to goals about your health, the end result feels great.

Let’s consider for a moment what the process of setting goals is doing. According to research by goal-setting theorists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, goals not only affect behavior and work performance, but they also ignite a desire to put forth a higher and more persistent effort. And because with every action there’s a reaction, people around you are impacted by your efforts.

For example, if your goals are to be more productive and efficient at work and to manage your time better, you’ll likely return home sooner. Depending on what goals you’ve made regarding your habits at home, your family will benefit from the time you are able to spend with them. Perhaps you’ve made a goal to be more patient or a better listener. Those efforts impact others.

You will likely see similar positive effects if you have a goal to volunteer in your child’s school every month or plant a vegetable garden and share your harvest with neighbors. And as the cycle of goal-setting continues, you’ll be motivated to set more goals because of the positive feedback you receive from those who’ve benefited from your efforts. See? Win-win.

Don’t let the bad publicity surrounding resolutions fool you. Setting goals is a good thing. Nothing else is more effective and empowering than setting goals that improve your health, quality of life, focus, and contributions to the things you care about most. So let’s hear it for the new year and make it a goal to ensure it’s the best one ever.