Resolutions - it's how many Americans start each new year. They represent a promise to ourselves to "do better." The skeptics out there may say that they are worthless or unrealistic, but I look at them as an opportunity for self-evaluation and growth. Call me idealistic. I don't care. They work for me.
In 2010, I had a few ideas on resolutions, but what surfaced as my primary goal became to: "Drop habits that no longer suit me." Wow. Easier said than done. Breaking a habit is really hard. Recognizing that you may have outgrown things in your life that once were a positive influence can be even harder and sometimes very painful. This resolution kept manifesting itself in ways I never expected. I shed people, commitments and organizations all of which at one time were really important to me. But what emerged from this process is a leaner, trimmer me that can focus on new found goals and aspirations. It's a process that will continue through my life. I'm very thankful to those that had patience with me and helped give me a push when I had a difficult time letting go.
So here we are in 2011, ready for another new year. I have some goals in mind for books I need to read. (Let's face it, my 2010 goal in that area was an epic fail.) This time last year I was a non-runner and now have registered for a half-marathon. And I've decided to really focus on my relationships with those folks I value most. Completely by accident I focused on goals for the mind, body and spirit in the form of "Reading, Running and Relationships." I guess 2011 gets to be brought to you by the letter "R." I'm excited at what this year has in store for me. If it's any bit as growth-filled as 2010, I'm very blessed. Now time to get back to living it.
