resolutions

resolution:

A resolve or determination; the act of resolving or determining upon an action or course of action, method, procedure, etc; the mental state or quality of being resolved or resolute, firmness of purpose.

resolution. (n.d.). Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Retrieved January 02, 2008, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/resolution

I don't remember ever really being gung-ho about new year resolutions. Whenever I've made them, they've been the generic ones everyone else also makes. I never thought them out or cared much. I pretty much forget what they are and just don't think of them beyond January 2nd. But this year, there are a lot of things that i feel strongly about accomplishing, including:

1. Being healthier. Eat better and work out more, those are a given. But also, my goal is to stop living like I don't have health insurance. Because now I do, which means I don't have to wait til I'm dying to go to the doctor. And, I also want to try to do a better job of taking care of myself emotionally.

2. Be more organized and neat. I live in a small space and can't afford the clutter; the disorganization just makes me anxious. After recently having to share my apartment and feeling like I didn't want to come home at the end of the day, making my place feel home-y is especially important to me right now. I've gotten a head start on this. I've started throwing away stuff I don't need (why do I need a corny glass from the Rain Forest Cafe when I never use it and can't remember purchasing it or receiving it as a gift?!), doing some heavy duty cleaning & organizing (I cleaned out and organized my kitchen cupboards, hung some hooks, cleaned my oven, and cleaned out the fridge. Not a bad start!). I also got some new, pretty storage/shelf things and the new (very cute) TV stand is on its way.

3. Be more financially responsible. This is gonna be a tough one. I'd like to be better about sticking to a budget. I have a budget, have had one for a long time, and keep it updated and current. But I never use it. It's for looks only, which is not exactly the point. This means that once I've already spent the amount I've allotted for fun stuff, I have to say no to fun spending. Saving is also a new focus for me. I've been working on that for a little while and doing well, I just need to keep it up.

4. Be happier. Less moping. More fun stuff. This means taking that ceramics class I've been wanting to take for over a year, taking the belly dance classes that I like, reading for fun more. Doing things that make me feel good. I know this seems like it is in direct conflict with the previous resolution, but it's not really. Because to me, part of the point of doing the work of saving money (and for me, it is indeed work) is to be able to do or have the things that are important to you.

5. Spend more quality time with family and friends. I definitely pulled away and distanced myself from people this last year. In part, it was an effort to maintain the illusion that I am strong, I am ok, I don't need anyone's help. It also had a lot to do with the overwhelming sense that people suck and can't be trusted. But, I am extremely lucky to have a handful of really spectacular friends. So I'm going to try not to shut them out, even when the going gets tough and I'm having a hard time. Over the holidays, I also got a reminder of how enjoyable time with my family can be. Not just my immediate family, but some of my extended family that I don't always do a good job of keeping in touch with. So, I'll try.

I know new year resolutions have a bad rap. People joke about how they don't last, etc. and, I've always been one to bash them myself. But this year, for the first time ever probably, I actually do have new year resolutions.