Out with the old, in with the new.

Resolutions, that is.

Since when does everyone’s list of resolutions for the new year have to entail solely, “Lose 10 (20,30) pounds by this date” or “Quit smoking”? Research has shown that only 75 percent of resolution holders maintain their goals past the first week, 71 percent past two weeks, and only 46 percent after six months. As for anything after six months, about 97 percent of goals go unaccomplished. 

So regardless of the facts, it has still gone to show that those who take the time to even make a list are ten times more likely to fulfill their goals than those who don’t make a list. Travis and I had tossed around a few ideas for our new year and while he was playing Black Ops (thanks TJ), I broke out my thoughts book to see what would come to me. So here’s what I came up with:

In 2011 I want/plan to…

  • Be REAL with myself, TRUE to my friends, and HONEST in a time full of lies.
  • Limit my intake of junk and meats other than fish, eliminate my dependence on a virtual world that is becoming the only reality, and practice positive and healthy habits.
  • Contribute more and consume less. De-clutter and simplify life. Be more efficient and earth conscious. 
  • Continue what has already been started by renewing my faith and bettering my personal relationship with God. I want to be sure of my beliefs and practice what I preach.
  • Love everyone unconditionally, break down my barriers and judgement, and make my family a more important area of my life. I need to spend more quality time with them individually and especially be a more positive role model for my young niece and nephews who are at a very impressionable age.
  • Use the knowledge I have gained from past mistakes and build on that for a better year. I would like to have more patience, trust, and honesty in all my relationships and in everyday life.
  • Become more aware of my ADD and type A personality and not let them be negative aspects of my life, mostly by finishing the things I start.
  • Maturely act my age but become best friends with my inner child again.
  • Continue to create myself as an individual by furthering my passion in different interests. I want to have a thirst for new knowledge. I will learn more, do more, and be more this year. I want to submerge myself in all things real and positive. 
  • Make better a life I already love. I will give thanks for my blessings and lose my selfish attitude. I will listen to my heart and the purpose God has instilled in me.

Tomorrow is never promised to anyone- so invest your time this new year in things that really matter, cherish your time with those you love, and say I love you when you have the chance. 

To those we have lost this past year, our memories of you will not be lost with the coming of the new. We will go on and live bigger because of each of you that live on in us. 

The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, LIVE IT. Cheers to a New Year! May everyone’s be filled with happiness and betterment. Most of all if you’re looking for a big change this year you must first step back, examine, and change yourself first. Reconnect with yourself.