#1 Finances: this seems to be an annual goal, though each year the focus takes on some twists. In 2014 I was able to purchase a truck and a van in cash, which was a huge goal, but in doing so, affected some of my other savings plans. This year, the goal is simply to stick to the budget and make progress at specific intervals (monthly and quarterly seem like appropriate checkpoints). I'm also hoping to set the goal of a family vacation in 2016, but beginning savings for that so we can pay for it in cash.
#2 Manage my time better: time vampires still rear their ugly heads, but checklists and timers are very helpful in managing the chaos. I have always been a creature of crunch time, the busier I am, the more I can get done. When I have 'lots of time', I tend to get sucked into non-productive things. Even over this last vacation, I found that my time was lost on some things, though enjoyable, didn't help me get through my list (and others I ignored altogether). This year, I'm going to stick to the schedule, the routine, and my sacred six items to get done each day. The trickiest thing will be to truly prioritize those six items (oftentimes, there's six things just in one facet of my life!)
#3 Focus on Family: my boys are getting older, and it's thrilling to watch them develop their own personalities, interests, opinions (no matter how strong) and share their strengths with others. I relish the opportunities to share in their adventures, whether it is through drama, scouts, school, or sports. I still want to be able to spend quality time, one-on-one, with each. As our schedules becoming increasingly full, that's usually in a car as we commute from one place to another, but taking advantage of any opportunity is key. I also value technology so I can connect with my extended family (including nephews who live out of state). I love the fact that we can stay an active part of their lives even though we live far apart.
#4 Clutter Control: I definitely get my organization (or lack of it) from my parents, who are products of depression-era parents. I am slowly going through items that I claimed I can 'eventually use these' for projects or storage. Even kid #2's room got an overhaul with a new bedroom set and we pulled EVERYTHING out for him to reevaluate before going back into his Fortress of Solitude. Unfortunately, he's learning his skills from me (and I'm not exactly the best role model for this!). This year, I'm going to complete a weekly 30 minute purge, picking an area and tackling it whole heartedly for 30 minutes (using a fill-the-box mentality). Hoping that a small, regimented focus will result in big changes over time.
#5 Be Grateful: Thank you goes a long way. 2014 was challenging, but supportive friends and family allow me to stay the course. I continue to be grateful for health and everyday joys. Thank you notes, appreciative post-its, and even the occasional chocolate surprise allows me to tell those around me how much I appreciate their efforts as well as their support. And who doesn't like a chocolate surprise!
So as the winds howl and the ice forms outside, I curl up in front of the fire with my cup of cocoa and a few fuzzy pups. These are moments that I appreciate that allow me to reflect, regroup and recharge for a new year full of new surprises, new adventures and new attitudes.
Until next time -
