Last year about this time, I wrote about my hopelessness on the subject of creating a downshifted life in 2015. 2015-A Year Meant for Downshifting reviewed all the areas I thought were still in a rut, comparing my then life to a roller coaster with incredibly slow efforts to reach a peak or milestone, but then fast and jarring descents into abysmal lows. I have had some bluesy weeks in December, which followed the dreariness of November, physically, mentally, and artistically. However, as I sit and reflect, rereading last years posts, trying to find my end of year wrap up thoughts to put down in words, I realize 2016 has been a fairly successful year. Don't get me wrong, the valleys were definitely there and my mind is still full of useless brain pollution that robs me from being able to fully appreciate what I do have in life. Last year I wanted to focus on several areas as opposed to creating a list of New Year's resolutions. I deemed them my life list, and each is still valid; each needs to be maintained as I continue to downshift my life, exorcise the clutter, and infuse the quality of my experiences.
Health-Despite my weight struggles, I am 8 pounds lighter than January 1, 2016. I have seven more weeks, I think, of my virtual health plan, and it is still doable to hit the 7% weight loss by the end of it, or at least get on a track to keep the momentum going. I had a set back right in the middle of it, so know if I want results, I'll have to work harder now. Two specific areas of focus are to build muscle and stamina. Organization-We purged so much in 2016, and need to keep that up.The one thing in, two things out mantra I was aiming for, is still a target. I'm adding figuring how to reduce mail clutter to the mix.
Money Management-No changes here from last year. Spend less than we earn. Give generously. Invest wisely.I previously wrote about lofty 2017 savings goals here. Reality is setting in and all three of us decided Ireland for DD2 in the spring of 2018 is off the list, but we are keeping the goal of a 2018 vacation, hopefully to the Mediterranean, either land, or sea, or possibly both. This will shave about $250 a month, or $3,000 from our target, but shh, don't tell my savings account that.
Social connectedness-I didn't do great with this one the second half of 2016. I backed out of many group events, and didn't see some friends as much as I would have liked. Yet, with continued improved organization, I hope I am brave enough to have the impromptu girls night in, couples soup dinner, and burgers and beer on the deck.
Advance my skills-I'm still looking for a writing class or too. I'll attend the Blogger's conference again in the fall. I'm throwing a new goal out-learn to crochet. A work friend is trying valiantly to teach me, and if I get no further than dish rag making stage, I will be happy.
My life list 2017 looks just like my list last year. I'm betting next year will be the same. It is a journey, not a destination. Where is your journey taking you? Any words of encouragement to push me uphill?
The bigger goals of 2017 still remain TBD (based on work, housing & general location), so I've filled my goal list with things I can accomplish in either situation. I need the motivation. What motivates you? Small progress? Visual progress? Rewards? Maybe you can give some thought to how you feel motivated to continue & ensure you are building that along the path for 2017? Your goals look great & doable! Can't wait to follow along with you!
ReplyDeleteVisual progress is the most motivating to me, which then leads to frustration when gaps and slack occur. I can see why you are holding off-so many decisions to make, but I'm sure you will make the best ones for your family, and yourself.
DeleteHi Sam I don't do NY resolutions but I do have goals. One of last years goals was to start a blog which I've done although not as regularly as I'd like. One of this years goals is to work my way through one of my recipe books a bit like Julie and Julia but I'm not commiting to blogging about each thing I make I just want to actually use them perfect each recipe for us and document each one in a journal to refer back to. Travel is an ongoing long term goal so 2017 will include a large three month trip and a shorter trip later in the year but I'd like to write about my trips and document them on my blog in a little more detail mainly so I have a more detailed record of our days and what we've seen and done etc and another goal is related to yoga meditation and self care which basically means do more of it lol. I do have a few others related to volunteering but that's me pretty much for next year.
ReplyDeleteIf I make adequate progress towards my financial goals, and progress in the life list, it should be a good 2017. I'd like to imagine three months of travel, but won;t happen unless something very dramatic occur rs in my life, and I'm not ready the possibilities that could take.
DeletePS my main goal is living a contented life and this as you point out is a journey not a destination. This is my journey and it's a work in progress which I guess it always will be. To keep motivated I meditate on what contentment means to me and read uplifting books and blogs.
ReplyDeleteYes, a joyful existence is most meaningful to me as well.
DeleteIf you learn to make a granny square, you can just keep going and make a doll blanket, a baby afghan, or an even larger square to cover people. I am talking about just going round and round until you get the size you want, not joining squares. Finish the square with a shell stitch. I made these for daughters, then granddaughters, friend' babies and my babies.
ReplyDeletePractical Parsimony
Once I master the dishrag, that can be a new goal. Thank you for the encouragement. Glad your back on line.
DeleteI had a giggle over learning to crochet - I've been watching you tube videos and have mastered the dishcloth! Now I'm very slowly working on a couple of headbands and a scarf using the easiest of stitches. It's important to keep challenging our brains as we age though I haven't decided yet what my next challenge will be. Isn't it wonderful to look back over 2016 and acknowledge that you did better than you thought!
ReplyDeleteEveryone that crochets beautifully says how easy it us, but my fingers just don't cooperate!I'll keep at it. Blogging is great as a recap tool.
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