2019: CELEBRATE!

2019: CELEBRATE!

2910 marks my 50th year on this planet. So, this year, instead of resolutions or the tired old “New Year New Me”, I’m going to celebrate. Resolutions are rife with negative connotations, self-flagellation and filled with items we have to force ourselves to do. But, because of resolutions, I’ve made such great progress getting to where I am. Due to strict budgeting, doing without, staying home, working out at home, eating healthy home-cooked meals, I’m facing 2019 open eyed and breathing easier–both financially and health-wise. I do have goals, but not what you think. Here they are:

1. Self-Acceptance. Accept myself as I am. Know I’m doing the best I can, for my health–healthy foods, exercising, getting enough sleep and so on. What can you do to accept yourself? In addition to the standard ‘eat healthy and exercise’, I’m going to say start dressing your size. Stop wearing clothes 2-4 times larger than what you are. That just makes you look bigger and is more demoralizing than overeating. Find a color scheme that looks good on you–even you guys! There’s more to life than Flannel.
2. Enjoy Life. I’ve been focusing more on my surroundings, like trees outside my window, birds, flowers, the breeze, sunny days, overcast days. Enjoying my apartment, making plans for my ideal furniture/decor placement–and making it happen. I’ve discussed many times before about budgeting, so i’m not going to beat that dead horse. Whatever you do to fill the hours in your day, remember to treat yourself.
3. Do Something New. I’ve decided this year to start getting out more, enjoy what there is to offer. It can be something new, like reading a new genre, trying a new form of exercise, attending a local seminar. There is the old adage of ‘get out of your comfort zone’, but don’t go so far as to give yourself a panic attack. Ignore those “self-help gurus”.
4. Make Goals. Really, not resolutions. One of my goals is to move back to Seattle (due to health reasons, I’m unable to remain on the Island). That is a long-term goal, for sometime next year. I know there have to be sacrifices and that is something I’m willing to do, so I’m making shorter plans, like selling furniture, giving away the couch and so on.
5. Finally, Love Yourself. I’m not talking about staring in a mirror like the Evil Queen, I’m just saying try your best in life, kick your butt if you go off goal and forgive yourself when you go off the rails. Remember: People want to see you succeed just like you do.