Saturday, December 31, 2011

New Year - no resolutions

The new year is symbolic of new beginnings. Out with the old year - all the mistakes, disappointments, and frustrations. But, also out with the triumphs and glories. The past is the past, and there it will stay. The new year, the future, is here, and people are excited. All kinds of people make New Year's resolutions, like getting into shape, changing jobs, reuniting with lost friends or family, and so forth. Some resolutions stick, others don't. A key to finding a resolution that sticks is to carefully think through the resolution ahead of time - don't make rash, emotional decisions that are life changing. You won't be able to stick with it.

That's why I avoid resolutions around New Year's. Too fraught with peril, and in fact it's become a cliche so people don't take the resolutions seriously. Thus, if you need external help with your resolution, it's harder to obtain it around New Year's because people don't think it's a serious commitment.

What I think New Year's is good for is taking stock of the past year. Think through all the stuff that happened, and what your actions and responses were. Think about what works and what doesn't, and what you want out of life. If you are living the life you want, congratulations! Keep it up! Maybe think of tweaks to improve your life.

If you aren't living the life you want, now's the time to start thinking and making plans about how to change. Don't be drastic, or rash. Don't think you'll fix everything in a few quick moves. You have to start with a plan, and think carefully about what it is you want, and how it will affect the people around you. I recommend you begin here and follow the instructions laid out there.

Best of the season to all, and may you have a blessed 2012.

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