Resolution is such a cliche term. As overused as the word "awesome" and I don't like overused words or terms. I have a list of words that I hate and will hide people on Facebook for using. That's a post for another day.
Anywho, one year ending seems final and another beginning is hopeful. Unfortunately, all those new gym memberships and organizational tools that we all buy because of our new hope will just fall into the land of forgotten resolutions about halfway into February. So as I was taking a shower this morning I couldn't help but think about last year.
So before I decide to make a resolution (eww) I am going to reflect (ugh) on some of the things I learned in 2013 so that I can make some adjustments:
I learned that just because I am not working a 9 to 5 doesn't mean I have more time. I am evaluating my business plan and I am taking time off from school to devote myself more fully to my husband and children. Honestly, taking December off from both school and work has been the best thing for all of us. Before the last few weeks, I cannot remember the last time I sat in front of the TV with my husband and kids and just hung out. My face has been glued to a monitor for the last year and I'm pretty tired of it. This isn't to say that I won't be working but I'll be doing less of it for people who really value what I do. I ran into some doozies this year and I left those situations feeling empty and defeated. Sometimes I forget that I choose who I work with as much as they choose me.
My 2014 adjustments (sounds so much better and more attainable, doesn't it?):
Slow down. My kids will only be kids once. My relationship with my husband as a romantic partner is just as important than the one I have with him as a parent. I easily get caught up in the day to day but there are times that I need to stop and take in what is going on around me. When I'm so busy buying groceries, organizing, getting WODs in and making sure all the bills are paid it's easy to miss that my family is missing me emotionally. Relax. Breathe. Look around. Sure, there's a giant pile of dishes in the sink and the floor you just mopped is filthy with cookie crumbs and scraps of arts and crafts but are my kids smiling? Is my husband laughing? If those sounds and sights are missing then I am missing.
And something I think we can all agree to:
Stop basing your life on what you know about what's viral and what's trendy. Stop being outraged over the Phil Robertsons and Michael Moores of the world and make those around you see the light of Christ by reaching out in love. There are real injustices, there are differing opinions (GASP!) and there are real and meaningful interactions right at your fingertips. We are more connected as a globe as we've ever been. Make those interactions count for the positive. Most of all, if there is a disagreement it is simply that; a disagreement. Just because someone thinks differently it doesn't mean they're personally insulting you. Learn the difference. Live in peace.
Happy New Year!
