I've just always been a "go with the flow" type of girl and I figured that any changes I absolutely needed to make would happen naturally. I never saw the purpose in writing anything down or setting it in stone.
Well after talking to my sister Vanessa and remembering a book I read a while ago, I realized that maybe it's not such a bad idea to write down some "resolutions". She gave me the idea of writing a mission statement for the new year. I decided to go along with that and created one to display in my apartment (since I still have a bunch of empty frames in my studio that need some lovin) but I will also do something a little closer to the book "The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin. Basically she had a goal for each month out of the new year. They weren't necessarily big goals, but they were goals and they had a due date. It worked for her and let's face it, as amazing as we are, we can all use a little tweaking. This is my happiness project for the year 2014:
- January: Be more organized when it comes to finances. Set aside money for bill payments, then a certain amount of money for savings. Afterward, any money left for the month can be spent guilt free. Maybe somehow .. by the grace of God .. You'll have enough money for a really cute designer purse (like Chanel or something) but don't hold your breath.
- February: Adapt. Be more flexible and open to change and criticism. It's the only way to learn and get better. Do not let setbacks get to your heart. Learn from all mistakes and follow through. Especially LRW ... Do NOT let that class break you.
- March: Secure a summer job/externship. Either a judicial clerkship or an in-house position with a reputable corporation. Work on your interview skills and really hone your professional appearance.
- April: Make time to work out at least twice a week. Doesn't have to be anything strenuous. Even a run around the track or some ab workouts at the beach will do. Break out the yoga mat- you paid good money for it.
- May: Be a better friend. Make an effort to help people out, without them having to ask for it. Be supportive and positive. Put others first.
- June: Make an effort to eat healthier. Make smoothies and try to incorporate some sort of vegetables into your diet. Eat out less and cook more. As a matter of fact, make your own breakfast; you're not incapable.
- July: Pick out a new novel to read. Take some time to yourself and enjoy the moment. Don't get so caught up in life and work.
- August: Get in touch with old friends you haven't seen in a while. Socialize and do something fun. Go out and be young. It's summer. Live it up. Find yourself a summer fling if you need to.
- September: Try something new and different. Break out of your shell a little bit. Life is too short to be stuck in the same old same old. Maybe join a different law school club or get more involved in one that you're already in.
- October: Find the time to pamper yourself this month. Take one weekend and go get your nails done or your hair done. Then when you're done treating yourself, go lie on the beach. Appreciate the beauty around you; stop letting it pass you by.
- November: School. School. School. Crack down early and make sure all of your notes are organized and ready to go. Make sure your outlines are good and short. Start making your flash cards. Just get ready for go-time!
- December: Pay attention to what is going on around you and do not neglect the people you care about. Be sure to appreciate the people that you have in your life and show them that they are appreciated. "Love the people God gives you, because he will need them back one day". This month is all about loving and showing appreciation for all of the great blessings this year has brought you. Then work on your list for next year!
Other than that, I'm going to be having a pretty chill New Years. I've actually never gone out and done a huge New Year's celebration and to be honest, I have no desire to. I love ringing in the new year at home with my people, so that's where I'll be this year. So far, I commenced my celebrations with some good Thai food in the company of my sisters. Yum.
However you're ringing in 2014, have fun and be safe/responsible. Feel free to let me know what your resolutions are (or if you're even making any). I wish everyone all the best and here's to another one under the belt! Adios 2013! It's been grand ... but I've got bigger and better things ahead!