It’s that time of the year when people start to set a list of New Year resolutions, excited that come January 1st their whole life will dramatically change. I used to do this until I realised I would strictly follow them in January and then they would gradually fizzle out. I was mainly unable to follow them as I always felt like I was depriving myself and once I had lapsed it was difficult to get back on track.
I now set only a few targets for the year, targets that are much more manageable and realistic. These feed into my vision of being a better person. I remind myself of them daily, so they are not some abstract frightening concept I feel I can’t reach. I then review where I am every month. This allows me to measure the progress I am making towards my targets and the chance to reflect and make better choices.
One of my main goals this year is to be more CONSISTENT. For me this means going to the gym three times a week (health permitting), eating better (less red meat and more vegetables), making the effort to plan in time with friends and family, finishing books (I often start several but don’t quite get to finish them) and uploading my blogs more frequently (work in progress).
Another goal is to be more FORGIVING of myself. When things don’t go to plan or as well as intended, I need to shake it off and learn from the situation quickly. I know I am not perfect – no one ever is, but accepting and bouncing back from challenges is something I will continue to work on.
I asked my wife to go for a walk with me, she agreed but looked at me oddly- it isn’t something I normally ask to do especially on a cold night. Those of you who follow my story know that I sometimes have issues walking. Nevertheless, the time spent walking beside her was a simple pleasure and reminded me that I should never take the simple things in life for granted. My final goal is to be more APPRECIATIVE by giving time, attention and thanks to the important people and things in life.
I see these goals as essential for me becoming a better version of myself. There is no shock or surprise in what I want to achieve. They are not absolute or set in stone, but what they are, are achievable and very clear.
I’m going to challenge you to do one thing in addition to your own targets for this year, and that is to look after yourself. Each day find a way to be good to yourself.
Let me know what your goals are this year, feel free to share them in the comments below!
Roll on 2018.
