Focus – my goal of 2019.

New Year’s resolutions were always enticing to me. The idea that, at the turn of the year, we have a moment to reflect on life and the past year with an opportunity to plan and think for the future. When I was younger, I’d write a list of 10+ things I wanted to do, ranging from the vaguest of thoughts to the most obscenely specific actions, like ‘do more’ to ‘exercise 45 minutes a day at least four times a week with cardio being at least 20 minutes of the time’.

I’ve learned, through the years, that these lists, while ambitious and well intentioned, were never sustainable. I’d fail at some point to keep the promises I’d make to myself, and I’d have to deal with my own personal failures. Eventually, I wizened up and began to make resolutions around one idea or concept that could help inform and guide my approach to life.

This year, I pledge to focus more – to focus on the things that bring me a sense of purpose, joy, and balance. By focusing, I’m accepting that there will be things or people I must let go, despite how hard those decisions will be.

Three years ago, I didn’t think I’d have the privilege of planning for any future as the scope of my life at the time was limited to each passing day. Then, slowly, days turned to weeks, the weeks turned to months, and here we are now with the months becoming years. Gratitude doesn’t even begin to cover the depth of feeling and appreciation I have for still being on this earth. Life continues to be an amazing journey and I’ve been blessed beyond my wildest dreams with the wonderful opportunities, experiences, and amazing people that are in my life.

Cheers to the new year everyone! May it bring you all much joy, love, and success you desire.