This year, I decided to set myself up for success. I needed to revamp the idea of “New Year Resolutions”. It even sounds like something I don’t want to do. I was actually pretty successful with my “resolutions” I created last year, but I definitely didn’t complete them all (hello, yoga class?). I made probably around 20 (Why? I’m crazy Who knows).

So I made my goals for this year simple. 2 goals. Be outside, and art more.

2017 was one of the best years I’ve had in a long time. I was able to hike with my husband and his best friend a lot. I ran for the first time in about 5 years. I was able to reconnect with a lot of friends, even those that live farther away. We went to new places and some classic spots too. I experimented and pushed some of my art skills and got to see Chris do the same. All of these things made me so much happier this year, and really made me realize what I value. I love being outdoors and I love making art, and I love my friends and family.

Are there plenty more things I want to accomplish this year? Of course. But, these are the things that I have decided that will have a positive impact on my life – and that’s what I think it comes down to. What can you do this year that will leave you better than you were? And what is doable?

I am a list person. My self-discovery this past year is that if I put too much on my list, and I fail to do said tasks, I will feel even worse. For me, setting smaller, more vague goals actually fuels me to accomplish more. I know that many will not agree with that mindset, but I’m all about the instant gratification and sometimes just doing what it takes to stay positive!

If that means making your goals simple and all pleasurable, then do that!

I also took some resolutions off my list because I have finally established them as habits.  Going to the gym – officially a habit that I can’t drop. Drinking more water – I feel terrible when I don’t. Run in a race – I can’t beat that feeling I get when I do this.

Here’s to a great year and my hope is that you have a great one too!