Over the past few days I have been seeing a lot of posts on New Years Resolutions for 2012. I have never been one to take these very seriously... I make the remarks, "My New Years Resolution is xy or z" but that is about as far as I go. However, this year I have actually given it some serious thought. I even wrote it on paper... NOW, I am posting it, publicly. So, I guess I am inclined to at least attempt to 'resolve' a thing or two.
I read this really great article - actually, they have a lot of really great articles - I definitely recommend subscribing to them. It is called Marc and Angel Hack Life. They have a lot of motivational tips to make you have a more aware and involved life. The article I read yesterday, 30 Challenges for 30 Days of Growth is a really great read - and I would say they are overly ambitious :). He is doing each of those action items everyday for at least 30 days, and most likely to follow the rest of the year. Go Marc! However, I will settle on a few for 2012. The motivation behind my 2012 progress has several layers; parenting, personal growth and a more positive outlook, healthy living, and professional progress. My rough draft list is (drum roll, please):
Smile more, frown less. (this one is for a more positive outlook - but, I also have a serious frown mark on my forehead that needs to NOT get worse)
Compliment more, critique less.
Be a more effective listener.
PATIENCE. I am not a naturally patient person. So, I have to consciously work through this one.
Challenge myself. I love learning and doing new things - I just don't actively pursue the unfamiliar because I get complacent.
Live a healthier lifestyle. I have horrible eating habits. And, I believe that has rubbed off on my son, or he is just a picky 2 year old, however I want to demonstrate healthy eating and hopefully he will come around too. I want to find fun new recipes and give them a try. Exercise is so important for a strong mind and body. I need to put my healthy mind and healthy body higher on my priority list. It has always taken the back seat to not having enough time and being too tired when I actually find the time.
Take more pictures. My family would probably wonder how that is even possible - I take a lot of pictures. But, I want my camera to become attached to me everywhere I go. I see so many great views from my drivers seat. I want to pull the car over a snap a few shots - I never do that and I am missing a lot. It isn't the physical picture file that I am missing but the moment to take it in and see the art and beauty.
Set the 'To Do' list aside. I am a list maker. I skip out on opportunities to play and laugh because there is laundry and dishes to do. I need to realize that in 15 minutes from now or tomorrow morning the items on my list will still be there but those moments that I am taking a pass on will not be.
2011 was a lot of changing / adjusting. 2012 will be settling in and growing for us. We are happy and we are looking forward to another great year! Bring on 2012! Happy New Year!