Last week had been a reflective time for me. In the days before the old year ends and the new year begins filled with new possibilities, I took a look at goals I set for 2011.
What had I achieved? What things escaped me? Fortunately for me, I stayed alive, avoided injury, and kicked my obsession with annoying Jillian Michaels’s DVDs.
On the flip side, I did not quit tennis like I had threatened (I took more lessons and learned to relax). I did not install a bidet for my dog, instead opting to feed him yogurt mixed with a probiotic to help balance his digestive system, (i.e. make his poop solid). I did not buy every season of MadMen on DVD, but instead I DVR’d them (to the dismay of my son who had difficulty recording soccer games because I took up so much space). I did not throw myself a “write-the-book” party, but I did write the book (watch for more news in 2012!).
Most of all, I surprised myself. As I sifted through my story archive, I was reminded of all I have written and accomplished in life. It’s both humbling and gratifying. For every story, reflection, picture, or poem I shared, I have many more in varying stages of completion. Some of my “babies” need a little touch-up and paint, while others need to be rebuilt or tossed out once and for all. Regardless, now I’m ready to roll up my shirt-sleeves and get down to work.
As I sat down to write my goals (resolutions feel negative), I discovered that I needed a little inspiration. A post by Christopher S. Penn, who writes about awakening your superhero in the intersection of work and life, gave me the little nudge I needed. He chose three words that define what he’s focusing on for the new year. The three word idea is different from setting goals. In order for goals to work they need to be SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely). Three words serve as a guide for you to reflect upon while setting your goals. The words you choose could be anything from colors, numbers, values, or an action.
Here are my three words for 2012:
1. Amplify – I will reach out to more people to make myself known with detailed, creative storytelling.
2. Visualize – I will visualize the kind of flow I want to happen in my life by making time to move, think, grow, and reflect.
3. Create – I will create my art with confidence and gratitude everyday.
Here’s a challenge for you: take a look at what you’ve done in 2011 and come up with your own three words to help set you on the right path. Don’t forget to let me know what you’ve come up with. Send me a note or post a comment!
