New Beginnings

I came across a survey this week that claims the majority of people under the age of 45 will make a New Year’s resolution. For those over 45; not so much. Maybe that’s because they are thinking that this is my life, this is who am and there's no need to change.

Well, being one that falls into the (cough) over 45 age group, I can honestly say that I'm finally feeling comfortable in my own skin. However, I continually struggle with wanting to live life more fully. I want more travel, more out of the routine experiences, more fun. That’s tough to do, though, when you own a business and support a family. So instead of the same old tired resolutions that have been made time and again, I think it’s more appropriate to publicly share some goals that will hold me accountable to my family, to my business partner and to myself.

1) I will find that all important work/family/fun balance.
2) I will travel at least four times a year.
3) I will plan and strategize. I’m the first to admit that I'm not a planner and tend to follow the shiny pennies that constantly take me off my path. (These are my business partner’s words!) 2012 will be a year of hyper focus, concentrating on activities that get us to our goals.
4) I will play without feeling guilty.
5) I will work on accepting that feelings are not necessarily facts.
6) I will accept that all human beings are unique and that I cannot expect them to change. I can only change the way I deal with them.
7) I will focus my energy on the things I enjoy.
8) I will not get frustrated with my “passionate frustration” because I understand that great things happen when you know ' there has to be a better way'.
9) I will drive creativity by learning how to let it flow over and around me.
10) I will accept and be proud of all accomplishments no matter how small.

The Old Year has gone. Let the dead past bury its own dead. The New Year has taken possession of the clock of time. All hail the duties and possibilities of the coming twelve months! Edward Payson Powell