Usually around this time of year I post something about making new year’s resolutions. Most of the time I’m an advocate for NOT making resolutions because I believe that by so doing, you’re setting yourself up to fail which creates undue stress. I mean, let’s face it, keeping your resolve for 365 days is an astounding feat. Which is why we start making excuses for not doing what we “resolved” we were going to do.
That’s not to say I don’t believe in resolutions. I just don’t think we should put all of our eggs in the new year basket. What makes January 1st different from August 8th or May 22nd? Nothing. Every day is a new start. When you are resolved to do something – do it.
The most important part of doing anything is STARTING. That’s the hardest part. But after you’ve started you need to remain vigilant and stay strong. That’s also hard. So, if you’re going to make a pledge to yourself, make it attainable and give yourself rewards as you reach certain points along the journey.
Now, if making new year’s resolutions is your thing, then by all means resolve away. I’d rather use the turning of a new year as a time to reflect on the past year and see how I can improve on the next one. For me, this year is easy. I’m working on improving my health and getting my stamina back. I’m also hoping to keep the writing momentum going. See? Resolution, but not really. Just general concepts that I can work toward throughout 2019.
Here’s a little pep talk to start your new year off on the right foot.
Now – get out there and accomplish great things my friends! You can do it. I believe in you.
What are your goals for the new year? Do you make resolutions? Do you keep them? Any advice for setting and keeping the resolutions? What keeps you motivated?
Word of the day: Steatite
Fun fact about me: I actually have a resolution this year! Get my second book (and hopefully third) published.
Original post by Jansen Schmidt, December 2019. Photos courtesy Pexels. Video courtesy YouTube (Grow Successful)
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jansenschmidt 
Love the video – it’s raw and in your face. For me, 2018 has been a busy year, not tough, but busy… really busy – two knee surgeries and two rehabs, a son joining the marines and leaving for boot camp and graduating. Teaching and learning. Growing as a parent and an individual all of it full of goals or resolutions. As a teacher my year is June to May and I usually make resolutions or goals for summer break then reset when school starts. Knee #2 is four weeks in – today and movement is much better, but I still need to build the strength and endurance and a little more flexibility, but it’s coming and I keep moving forward and that is what resolutions (goals) are really about – moving forward on your goals and life – looking ahead and redirecting as needed. 2019 is going to be a great year so I’d better get up and get moving.
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Clay, I wish you much success, happiness and growth in 2019. I know that you are not the kind of person to take anything for granted so just enjoy every moment as it comes, learn from it, cherish if if needed, and move on.
Thanks for your friendship.
Patricia
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Not so much a resolution but a way of life, so I will be the same as every year, try to be kind, not waste time as time escapes us and try and make every day count. Not dwell on trivial things, be grateful for the people in my life and read more .
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I’m with you Michele. So many people take for granted the blessings around them every day. I wish folks would slow down and appreciate the abundance the world has to offer.
Thank for being you. Don’t ever change.
Love, hugs, and wishes for a very special 2019.
Patricia
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I don’t usually make resolutions, but I’m looking forward to having all the holidays being over and getting back some normalcy in my schedule so I can keep those little goals I set for myself that I’ve been failing. This year was especially hard because I had two vacations at the end of October and early November (yeah, rough, I know) that sort of extended into Thanksgiving and then Christmas. My writing took a backseat, so I’m excited to get back into the writing groove of things. I hope you accomplish all your goals in 2019!
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I know what you mean about returning to a routine. Nothing messes up routine like holidays. And, I really don’t like new years eve. I’ll be so glad when tonight is over. It seems like such a strange way to end the year, with drunken revelry. But, most people see it as ringing in the new year with a party. I guess is all in one’s perspective.
So, starting tomorrow (actually probably more like Wednesday) things should settle back down. Of course, then there’s the removal of all of the holiday decorations which takes time. (sigh).
Anyway, here’s to an eventful new year full of lots of new books.
Patricia
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Nice blog Patricia. I never have made a New Year’s resolution. I’ve been so extremely busy this year that I just keep on trudging through the piles around my desk and will work myself through them. Don’t get me wrong, I love everything that surrounds me. As you know, I worked many, many years to get to the position and look forward to a new part of the business this year. I’ve been pushed into e-publishing because my boss closed her business.
Hugs to you in getting your health back.
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Thanks Marlene. Getting back in shape medically is my main goal. I’m still taking it somewhat easy, but that’ll change soon. I feel a little more energized every day.
Good luck with the self-publishing. It’s going to be a good thing for you I’m sure.
Happy 2019!!
Patricia
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Happy New Year, Patricia! Whoop! Whoop! Whoop! 2019 is going to be a banner year. Thanks for the video. That’s a good one! Cheers!
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Thanks Lynn. Same to you. Looking forward to 2019 as well.
Thanks for your friendship and support.
Patricia
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I don’t do resolutions, because the every-day aspect is such an invitation to fail for me. I do set goals, and always with a reasonable amount of days off depending on what’s going on in my life. I set some crazy writing goals this year, but allowed for plenty of time off for my move this summer. Hope you have a wonderful, safe, happy, healthy and FUN new year!
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Thanks Jennette. I tried to set my “resolutions” to devote more time to writing and resting and taking care of myself. If I accomplish that, it’ll be a good year.
Good luck with the move. I’m looking forward to reading more about the new house.
Thanks for your friendship and support this past year. Looking forward to much more in 2019.
Patricia
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When you get to be a senior like me the only and obvious resolution for 2019 is to be around for 2020. Happy New Year, Patricia. I have enjoyed making your cyber acquaintance this year!
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Al, I have enjoyed meeting you as well. The internet makes the world so much smaller doesn’t it.
Here’s to an eventful new year with continued good health and friendship.
Patricia
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