The puppy dog and I walk down the street, the sun on our faces like a welcomed greeting from an old friend. It is just a few days into this new year. I left my phone sitting on the desk in the kitchen. I think twice – I should have brought it. What if someone calls about one of the kids? I rationalize leaving it – it’s okay, they have Tim’s phone number too. I had to leave it at home, otherwise I cannot fully enjoy this time outside, away from my computer screen and the notifications (even the silenced ones). Hello sun, hello trees, hello sky and neighbor’s cat. I SEE you.
Back on my desk, in our home office, sits a fresh new paper calendar. Full of empty pages, just waiting for ink to touch them. Waiting for a purpose for each day, or most of them anyway.
Before last year expired, I took a look back at my full calendar that is now obsolete and realized it was filled in with many amazing things. However, in between the traveling, writing, show-producing and photo-taking there was much “wasted” time.
This year I do not want to waste time.
Somewhere in there I lost the motivation to be healthy and I NEED to get that back. I feel sluggish in many ways. This has caused me to begin this new year in a bit of a slump. Like the ball player who has lost his groove, I have done the same. My running shoes have turned into walking shoes and I can feel my muscles aching from lack of use instead of the opposite.
I am not one to wallow though. It’s never been my thing to fall prey to the negative for too long. It’s one thing I do really like about myself.
Instead, it is time to take action.
Less time sitting my arse in my desk chair and more time DOING.
This year ahead brings me to the cusp of a new decade in my life. Another slate to wipe clean and a chance to begin again.
So I resolve to spend less wasted time and to get moving again. And, if I happen to lose a few pounds (and gain a better attitude about myself) in the process then so be it.
This past year still has its merits for me personally. It helped me to gain new confidence in my own writing. I found my words on other sites and in a book. I read my words on stage. Anyone can watch me tell my story on YouTube.
And although my photography goals sort of slipped, I am okay with that. Turns out I cannot do it all at once . . .
I will be honest, I have never really been that into “new years resolutions”. I typically find any old day a good time to change and make new goals. But this year for some reason I do feel compelled to start anew, RIGHT NOW.
So here’s a to fresh new calendar full of promise, less wasted time and more doing (instead of talking about doing).
Hey 2015, let’s be besties.
Hey pretty lady!
I have a few goals, but I don’t generally make “resolutions” at the New Year, either. I fail at those 🙂
angela recently posted…Structure returns in 3 … 2 … 1
RIGHT NOW is great. Not wasting another minute! I’m glad you got out with the puppy today and left your phone at home. Feeling good is much more important than those notifications 😉
Kerstin recently posted…Celebrate 2015
You can do it, Elaine!
Alison recently posted…Half Measures
I love the feeling that a new year brings – that GET IT DONE attitude. It is SO refreshing. Happy 2015, my friend. I hope it turns into a year that you are super proud of. xo
Laura recently posted…Coming Back… Briefly: On My Last Week as a Working Mom
I feel like that sometimes. Like, “what did I really do today?” I’ve always been so hard on myself about my lack of daily accomplishments. Now, I’m trying to be a little kinder. What did I do today? I hugged my kids. I told them I loved them. I made them breakfast. I took them to school. And on and on. Here is to an “unwasted” 2015, however you look at how you spend the time.
Jennifer recently posted…Love Begets Love
The newness of the new year – like a fresh sheet of paper, I am drawn to it, want to try out my very best intentions. I like the idea of leaving behind the things that hold us back as well as giving the things we let slip away another chance. Bring on the New Year!
Andrea recently posted…Seven Activities to Keep Your Family Reasonably Occupied Over Winter Break
Good for you for taking time to unplug! I can’t tell you how many times I stop to do something on my phone/ipad/computer and end up wasting a bunch of other time instead. Love your motivation…keep it up!
Leslie recently posted…The Things Kids Say
Good for you. I have been feeling the same thing. The last month or so I really haven’t taken any time to take care of myself (workout, run, yoga, or anything really). I have started again this past week and it feels really good.
I think my goal is to actually waste time this year. I know that sounds funny, but I am trying to master the art of relaxing. I am always running, always taking care of other people, always at everyone’s beck and call, and I really want to take the few moments I have and relax when I can. This past week I’ve been sitting in my bed reading when the kids come home from school (after homework is done and before dinner). Once in a while I let a mess sit a little longer so that I take a bath, or finish a crossword puzzle. It has been amazingly therapeutic. I just want to learn to sit back and enjoy a little more. It is something that I used to see as wasted time and I am now seeing it as being at peace and nurturing myself. I’ve never let myself do that before.
I’m so glad you were able to unplug and take a nice relaxing walk. That is such a great way to recharge. Especially with such a cute pup! 🙂
Here is to a better and healthier 2015 for us both!
Kat recently posted…Bee Buds
This year I confronted a milestone birthday, and, despite my hopes of taking on this new decade strong and fit, other stresses distracted me. I hate that I feel older than my years right now, and I’m a bit angry with myself for letting my health & fitness slide. I know getting back to fit will take time, but I’m committed to that goal. I keep reminding myself it’s not a race, it’s a marathon, and every mile, 1/2 mile, 1/4 mile is different.
I’m with you, less wasted time, less time in the desk chair, more time doing!
I feel the same way, I lost so much motivation in 2014. I haven’t worked out in ages, I’ve wasted too much time. Here’s to starting anew.
Julia recently posted…How to Shake Off The Winter Blues