New Year’s resolutions

The new year is on its way. This year I’m striving for a deeper meaning in my resolutions to make changes that will affect the person I am. I’m documenting them here as a way to be held more accountable and reference during those tough times.

Be Grateful

Inspired by David Steindl-Rast’s TED talk, I’m making a resolution to be more grateful. Be grateful for the things I have, instead of wanting what I don’t have. In addition to being grateful for the physical things, also being grateful for every moment because every moment provides an opportunity. Stop to meditate on all I’m blessed with.

Every moment is a given moment. It’s a gift. We haven’t earned it … You have no way of assuring there will be another moment given to you.

Be Present

Be more present in the moments in my life, both mentally and physically. Mentally focus on what’s happening right now, who I’m listening to, what they’re saying, what they’re doing. Ignore distractions from phone notifications and social media feeds calling to me. Those Facebook and Twitter posts will still be there later. Instead of thinking about how I’m going to share an experience, be mentally present and enjoy the experience as it’s happening.

Be Content

Life is an adventure, and it’s my adventure. It’s no one else’s adventure, and their adventure is not mine. I want to not put any emphasis on how my life is measuring up to theirs. Don’t waste energy on resenting others for what’s happening in their life. Use that energy to be happy and content with all that I have in mine. Being content does not mean being complacent. If I want more out of my life, only I can make that happen.

Here’s to the New Year.