Ten on Tuesday - Goals for 2013

I like goals. I am not a fan of resolutions. I know people often say that a goal needs to be specific. Well, actually, I've spent a lot of time teaching people about SMART goals. What's a SMART goal? A SMART goal is:

Specific 

Measurable

Attainable

Relevant

Time bound

I don't have a problem with SMART goals, but in keeping with my new, 2013 mindset, I'm going to focus a little less on achieving a certain numerical goal and look instead to the process. So, here are my revised goals:

1.    In 2012, I resolved to read 50 books, and I did it. In 2013, I'm going to continue to make time for reading in my life, but I am going to set the bar lower. I would like to read 12 books this year, and I'm not concerned that I reach that goal. Last year, I found myself choosing books that were quick reads, just to check them off toward my 50 books. I overlooked some books that would have taken monumental effort to include in my 50 books. This year, I am going to read some of those books, like David McCullough's John Adams. I had my book signed by Mr. McCullough in 2002 and I haven't read it yet. I've started it, but work, kids, and life kept me from really devoting the time I need to this wonderful book. No more excuses!

2.    I'm going to continue the efforts made to clear out the clutter, in my mind and house. We started a major effort in the house in late 2012, and I'm so pleased with the way things have worked out. 

3.    I'm going to finish cataloging my stash on Ravelry, and I'm going to keep my projects, queue, and stash up to date. I'd like to feel like I have a handle on what I'm doing, and be more mindful about what I make and buy.

4.    Find a way to get both of the dogs more exercise, each within his own needs. This has become difficult due to the winter weather and Loco's advanced age. He seems to prefer to spend all his time sleeping now, yet he gets agitated if I leave the house without him. I can't reason with him, so I'm going to have to work this one out with trial and error.

5.    Continue the tradition we started on Sunday - family brunch with a post-brunch family meeting. I only have the kids every other weekend, and Sunday morning is the only time when we all are home, so this biweekly meal is going to become special. The kids loved eating breakfast in the dining room, and they also liked having the opportunity to participate and have a say in decisions about family things. 

6.    Get back in shape. I'd like to set specific goals here, but that's just setting myself up for failure. I will go with my new plan of setting aside a specific period of time for exercise, and then I will fill it with any exercise I feel like doing that day.

7.    Slow down and take the time to appreciate my kids. They are good kids, and they've had to deal with a lot, especially from their dad. I need to make sure that I keep them surrounded by other positive, nurturing adults who will help them as they grow.

8.    Start using the 10-10-10 method more to make decisions. (As in, what are my options, and, for each option, what will the outcome be in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years if I choose that option.) I don't usually have too difficult a time making decisions, but I think this will help for some of those sticky ones where no option is perfect and I need to clarify which is the best choice.

9.    Plant a garden this spring. I don't know whether it will be vegetables or flowers. I'd just like to have a little something different in the yard.

10.   Keep trying! Look at this photo.

Loco had no chance of swimming fast enough to catch those Canada geese, but he kept at it. And the geese got all nervous and started swimming away, honking. So there's no reason not to try. 

Comments

[PJ]

Absolutely love this!!!!! Especially the last part- thanks for the reminder!

[Karen]

I have never been good with resolutions. I always dump them within the first week. BUT I do plan to get out of bed every day and just keep going. Sometimes that is enough.