New Year Thought!

New Year’s resolutions—yes or no? Personally, I’ve learned not to make resolutions at the beginning of the year. Instead, I set goals within a group to maintain accountability.

The group I’m part of is about to embark on our third set of goals. It’s a bit daunting deciding what to prioritize this time with so much I aim to achieve—decluttering, becoming more organized, mastering new writing and marketing programs, sticking to a writing schedule, producing more art, and, of course, health goals like increasing water intake, exercising more, and improving my diet by cutting out sugars, carbs, and gluten.

So, what do I choose when I need to tackle all these things? The deciding factor has been a recent event. On Christmas morning at 1:00 a.m., I received a text from a former co-worker and friend. She informed me that a mutual friend and co-worker passed away on Christmas Eve after battling COVID in the hospital for a month. Unfortunately, this illness seems to be resurging, hitting closer to home. Beyond my departed friend, my boyfriend, and myself, I know of four others who have contracted this disease in the past month alone. What does this have to do with my goals for the new year? It’s about prioritizing health. I want to be the healthiest version of myself, to witness my seven-year-old niece graduate college, and to guide her away from rushing into marriage. I want to LIVE! I’ve also recently discovered that my recent health issues might make me more vulnerable to illnesses like COVID and a few others.

Therefore, my primary goal for the New Year, within the accountability of the group, is to focus on my health. I’ll address the other goals individually. My health needs to take precedence, and I need that accountability.

I’ll keep everyone updated weekly on my progress with this particular goal. I also hope to shed a few pounds (not my main goal but certainly a hopeful outcome).

Here are my specific health goals:

•   Goal #1: Drink at least 32 ounces of water daily.
•   Goal #2: Eliminate gluten from my diet.
•   Goal #3: Reduce sugar intake (although not entirely eliminating it).
•   Goal #4: Exercise for at least 5 minutes daily (more could set me up for failure).
•   Goal #5: Daily meditation (MOST IMPORTANT, aiming for 5 minutes a day—more might set me up for failure).
*   Goal #6: Be in my bedroom getting ready for bed before 11:30 pm.  (Last minute edit but an important one).

Now you know my goals, and I’ll report back weekly on my progress. Thank you for your patience and any input you’d like to offer.

I’d like to dedicate this post to my recently departed friend, Maz. Your absence will be felt not only by your family and closest friends but also by those of us who cherished your incredible wit and intelligence. You were a treasure to everyone who knew you.🙏

Sending hugs, love, laughter, and blessings to you all for a Very Safe and Happy New Year!🌻