I started out 2011 wanting to try new things. This may seem contradictory to my normal introverted nature, but I did start the year out with good intentions and I did try a few different things.
I tried out co-hostessing for an at-home party company (didn’t last more than a year, but I had fun doing it).
I bought a new car.
I went to a couple plays despite my normal social anxiety.
I tried out a new gym (still going for the most part).
I interviewed for some different positions within the company I work for.
I tried a new hotel for GenCon.
I did the Central Kansas Yarn Hop.
I traveled for the holidays.
Those are only the things I can remember off the top of my head, but 2011 was definitely about finding new things to do and try.
2012 feels like the year to get organized and really embrace the things I like to do and do well.
In terms of organization, I started the year by buying a new file folder to keep track of bills, financial documents, and that general paperwork that gets lost in the catch all drawer. I updated all my bill pay information to make sure things got taken care of on time. I checked my credit and started rebuilding that.
Though last year was alot of interviewing for new positions, I’ve decided I actually like what I currently do, and so 2012 is going to be dedicated to staying organized and doing things well. So far so good. My desk is cleaner, my folders are (mostly) organized, and eventually I’ll tackle my email to set up an efficient filing system.
Knitting – check. Reading – check. If I feel the urge to write, I’ll throw that in the mix.
I’m even making it a point to do things I don’t like doing. Most nights I get in 10 to 20 minutes of cleaning or packing. I’m currently having a hard time making it to the gym every night, but instead of beating myself up about it, I just take it one day at a time.
I’ve even tried to stop procrastinating as much as I’ve done in the past.
Mostly, I’m accepting the things about me that don’t really need to be changed and letting the changes that do need to happen happen slowly. This doesn’t mean I’m going to let myself stagnate, nor does it mean I’m going to stop doing new things.
I’m all about making an effort to spend more time with friends this year, but I’m also going to respect the fact that I need my down time. I’m going to try some new knitting this year…specifically sweaters, which I currently have two requests for, but I’m also going to make sure to do some smaller projects I know I can do well. I’ve set a reading goal for myself to read 60 books this year because I thought the year needed a challenge I could actually enjoy meeting.
This year is about enjoying life, avoiding stress, and making my priorities work for me.
The Romance Factor 