New Years Reflections and Resolutions for 2009
I thought this year was fantastic. Accomplishments:
- Second year being vegan, even better than the first.
- Taking my photography more seriously: got my first Nikon.
- Received the magazine containing my first published article in the mail.
- Went on a backpacking trip around Europe by myself: four months of unforgettable experiences, reaping the rewards of risk-taking and meeting fantastic people.
- Climbed my first mountain.
- Spent a month living in France while working in two different organic farms.
- Closed the chapter on my favourite work experience so far as an Educational Technology assistant.
- Moved to Montreal.
- Took on the great challenge of my Masters degree, finished my first term successfully.
- Year 7 with J, still totally in love.
Could 2009 be even better? Well I am not sure that I can top a trip around Europe, but trying could be fun. After last year’s crazy ambitious list of New Years Resolutions, I have learned a few things and have made myself a revised set of goals to aim for.
Resolutions for 2009:
1. Set up a better reading/writing schedule for school. In order to prepare for starting to write my thesis next term, I owe it to myself to set up a schedule that is something like a 9-5. It will help me get more work done, build a productive routine, and free up more time to explore other interests.
2. Take full advantage of living in such a great city. Using the extra time freed up from my enhanced scheduling, I want to do more things in Montreal! Art shows, music, theatre, etc.
3. Attempt to find a way to travel this year, despite lack of funds. This may not happen. It is really difficult having the travel itch and not being able to scratch it… right now I am daydreaming about some sort of hot holiday for my school break in February. Mexico? Or my dream cruise.
4. Get regular exercise. At least every second day. This shouldn’t be too difficult since I was on my way with that last month, I love running and classes at the YMCA. Exercising regularly makes a noticeable difference in my quality of life.
5. Cut down all TV watching to 2 shows. Period.
5. Read, nurture my literary roots. I have a massive reading list, and the more I read the more I feel like that old self who wrote real poetry and marvelled at characters. I want to let that side of me breathe again.
6. Run a 10K race. While eventually I want to run a half marathon, then a marathon, I think 10K is the most realistic benchmark for this year, with all that I have going on.
7. Set up a financial tracker and budget, and stick to it.
8. Quit stress eating.
9. Start meditating.
10. Nurture my self and my body through healthful choices.
I have started a Life dream list at 43 Folders, finally. Inspired by Maggie Mason at Mighty Girl (see the sidebar) for several of my starting goals, collecting more as I go. I like the idea of thinking about the larger (or smaller) achievements it would be great to look back on in life.
Wishing you all a happy new year.
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