I should preface this by saying I am NOT a fan of New Year's Resolutions, in general. However, I do believe that each year brings about the opportunity for change in life, career, relationships, education, etc. I choose not to refer to my goals as resolutions because then I automatically file them under the file of "unattainable dreams that can never become a reality".
Here are some of the changes I would like to see in my life and will attempt to focus on this year:
While some of these could fall under the label of "resolutions", I prefer to look to them as guides and prompts. Even if they provide encouragement for me to change my life for the better, I don't see how these could lead to failure, only experience and lessons. This year will be a year of change for me. I am going to graduate with my Bachelor's Degree (In Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice), I have applied to Graduate School, I will be jumping out of my comfort zone, my daughter will be starting Kindergarten, and I am ready to be comfortable in my own skin. Here's to hoping 2016 will provide moments of vulnerability, success, and optimism!
Here are some of the changes I would like to see in my life and will attempt to focus on this year:
- Make health a priority In many ways, I have let myself go. I indulge in the foods that I enjoy and can find any excuse to say that I cannot make it to the gym. The truth is that I would love to have healthy eating habits and steady gym attendance, but I usually lack the motivation and drive to do so. I have since committed to meeting with a personal trainer once a month and will give it my best shot at doing my "homework" that is assigned on the off weeks. I have consistently logged my calories for the past 5 days and will realistically commit to logging at least 5 days each week. Health is a priority and tends to get pushed back. I want to look good for myself and to gain confidence back.
- Find something to be passionate about Basically, I want to find my calling. I want to have a passion that others can recognize. I want to be the person that others can reach out to when they have a question or interest in something. This might be yoga or it could be poems or photography. I would really enjoy getting involved with more volunteer projects and interacting with others. I think I have always suffered somewhat from social anxiety. I hate the idea of putting myself out there to be judged and criticized. I owe it to my lack of confidence in my younger years to make this change for myself. I want to be confident and intentional in what I do.
- Be more worldly I know, I know, I am not a traveller, but there are other ways to be more well-versed and knowledgable than to just travel the world. I want to try new things. I want to read more books. I want to get to know new people. I want to take risks and understand others. I want to be more accepting of others and patient when being approached with new situations. I want to journal and meditate, be aware of my blessings, and find the positive in each day.
- Step out of my comfort zone By this, I mean step out into the adult world and find a job that has an opportunity for growth. Realistically, it will be about 3 years (at the earliest) until I receive my Masters degree in my desired field (which I am both terrified and excited about). In the meantime, I would like to change my current career field and test out my potential. I have constantly been told and encouraged by my family to do more. I think it is finally time I start believing them. I find nothing wrong with being a receptionist. In fact, I hold a lot of respect for receptionists. It's tough work being the front line sometimes. Being a receptionist for years has left me wanting to find out what else is out there. I have enjoyed the experience and opportunity that I have been blessed with, but want to attempt something out of my comfort zone. You never know until you try!
- Date Okay, this one also sounds a little silly. I do not mean this as a cry of "I'm desperate and NEED a man in my life. I say this because I can never meet ANYONE if I don't ever leave the comfort of my own house. I don't expect the man of my dreams to just come knocking at my door one day, unless he happens to be a Vons delivery guy, which is cool too I guess. I intend to sign up for at least one speed dating event this year. (Hey, better than the online dating that already scared me off!) I am also hoping that there might be someone with similar interests in my upcoming psychology class. (Who wouldn't want to spend hours discussing why people make their decisions in life with someone else who has a fascinating take on it?) I miss companionship and having an excuse to dress up for a date. I could use a little motivation to take care of myself a little better.
While some of these could fall under the label of "resolutions", I prefer to look to them as guides and prompts. Even if they provide encouragement for me to change my life for the better, I don't see how these could lead to failure, only experience and lessons. This year will be a year of change for me. I am going to graduate with my Bachelor's Degree (In Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice), I have applied to Graduate School, I will be jumping out of my comfort zone, my daughter will be starting Kindergarten, and I am ready to be comfortable in my own skin. Here's to hoping 2016 will provide moments of vulnerability, success, and optimism!