How did you do with your New Year’s resolutions from last year? Some I kept, some I didn’t and some I abandoned. There’s nothing wrong with abandoning a resolution: it’s not carved in stone and there’s no penalty for doing so. However, if you make a resolution or set a goal for 2006, be sure to make it SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely.
An example of a mandatory goal for me would be to attend an RV rally this year. I want to attend at least two of them, making the goal measurable. It’s attainable because the Spring Escapade is in April, giving me ample time to save for the trip. I’ve already contacted the Escapees about presenting a seminar on saving weight and space in an RV. It’s realistic because I’ll be able to afford it, and it’s timely because I must register early to have electric hookups. The second rally will be planned using the same formula.
An example of a goal I’ll try to achieve is to support myself through my writing. I know what my monthly operating expenses are, I know I can produce enough work to fulfill a contract, I have the time and the atmosphere conducive to creativity. The potential for the achievement of this goal by the end of 2006 is excellent.
I confess: I abandoned the resolution to lose weight. When I donate blood (I’m an aphaeresis donor), one of the questions on the intake form is, “Have you had any sudden, unexplained weight loss?” My response to the donor tech was, “If you woke up 20 pounds less, would you care whether you could explain it or not?” So if that weight is going to come off, it will have to happen while I’m sleeping and I won’t say anything.
A goal on my list every year is taking care of my health. I live alone and RV solo. I created an affordable package of medical, dental, vision and supplemental medical insurance that covers me for just about everything I need. However, I’m also a vegetarian, have a daily vitamin regimen, drink plenty of water, get plenty of sleep and try to avoid stress. A healthy lifestyle is a 24/7 life maintenance resolution for me.
Of course, I have daily, weekly and monthly goals on my calendar: maintaining the RV and car, visiting family and friends, attending cultural events, etc. When I’ve achieved one of my goals, I celebrate a little. I usually find something fun at the dollar store and chocolate is always a nice reward.
At the end of the year, I review the previous months and make a basic assessment. This year, I’m living where I want to live, doing what I want to do, having fun with my friends and enjoying life. I’m a happy woman. Happiness isn’t a SMART goal but a delightful side effect of fulfilling the resolutions.
I hope as you’re reading this that you can say you had a good year and are happy with your life. I also wish you a Happy New Year as you begin the fulfillment of your resolutions.
