I wanted to write a year-in-review post, but this year has been such a doozy that it’s going to take a bit of energy to sort it out. This is the first time I’ve had my head above water in at least 5 months, so I’m just relieved I can look ahead, setting new goals and clarifying old ones.
I have a number of personal goals for the new year, some life-changing, some not so much. But I’m hoping to balance them with the mantra, “You are enough,” constantly beating in my head.
Resolutions aren’t about perfection, they’re about fulfillment.
I won’t be disappointed if some of them fall to the wayside – that’s just life – but I’m hoping a few of them will stick, or at least teach me something about myself.
RESOLUTIONS: The Small Ones
Rekindle my love for creative movement.
I grew up dancing (tap, hip hop, swing, Irish, you name it) and I even took an adult ballet class when I first moved here, but it’s been years since I’ve had the chance to dance and move and trust my body to hold me up. I’ve been itching to try aerial yoga, but I’d also be up for a low key dance class.
Take photography more seriously.
I used to be really into photo walks and portraiture, but I just let life push photography to the wayside. I want to dedicate more time to getting the perfect shot, and I’d also like to make sure that every photo I post on the blog is something I’m proud of.
Give up coffee, at least for awhile.
I’ve been meaning to do this for awhile, because I don’t like my over-dependency on caffeine in the mornings. Headaches, crankiness, lack of focus. Not exactly a healthy habit. I am planning to replace it with a high caffeine tea for a less severe energy boost, and then we’ll see how I fare reducing my intake after that.
Eat all vegetarian except for on special occasions.
I cook vegan/vegetarian at home already, but I often eat out during the week and don’t really pay attention to what I’m eating. While researching and writing my post on Christian vegetarianism, I was taken with the idea of meat being associated with ritual. Saving meat for special occasions means the animal is elevated to a place of honor, which reminds us of the sacrifice. I plan to reserve meat eating for rare occasions, like holidays and birthdays.
RESOLUTIONS: The Big Ones
Make a part-time income on freelance writing and ethical brand collaborations.
I’ve ramped up my freelance writing over the past several months and learned how to better negotiate with brands so that collaborations work better for both of us. I am looking forward to initiating long term relationships with the brands I love on this platform, and also picking up more freelance creative writing and copy writing/editing for ethical brands. If you’re interested, hit me up here.
Take a leap of faith and get the chops to go where I feel called.
I’m leaving this intentionally vague because the details are still murky, but there’s something I’ve felt vocationally called to for most of my life and I’m excited to finally be taking the steps to pursue it. It’s scary, but it’s time.