New Year's Resolutions 2017

I almost refrained from writing a resolutions-related post, because obviously resolutions like "Be more organized" or "Be more punctual" are ideal. 

But for 2017, I want to build upon last year's general resolutions with one simple addition.

Find and express gratitude towards everyone.

In recent years, I have come to appreciate the incredible people who have become a part of my life—the assortment of individuals ranges from talented mentors and co-workers, friends from high school and friends from college.

And, of course, my brothers, my parents and relatives who have been there since Day 1.

It's impossible to control every moment and every circumstance, but it is possible to control how we react and who we turn to. Life is too short to be surrounded by negativity, resentment and lies.

If friends are a gift that you give yourself, I feel like a French aristocrat who can live off of cake, macarons and champagne.

Choose to have good people in your life. It's better that way.

2016 New Year's Resolutions

Here it is. The obligatory list of promises I hope to keep up for the New Year.

Let's hope that this list sticks.

Repairing my posture

I feel a slight hunch. Literally. Being a social media addict is all fun and games until the curvature of your spine morphs into something not so far removed from Quasimodo.

Figuring out a regular exercise routine

As much as I love hot vinyasa, I know I need to be doing something a bit more active. I don't do well gyms, but I definitely want to explore kickboxing for more intense days.

Focus

As Shia LaBoeuf says...

Read more for leisure

Over the past two years, I can only claim to have read books that were either career-oriented or class-related—both of which were fine, but it gets monotonous. I renewed my local library card before the holidays and the bookworm inside of me couldn't be happier.

Making good use of what I already have 

For example, I have several books that I haven't read yet, but I still seek out bookstores for something new. I have a ton of stationery, but I keep collecting more sets of cards. Before making a purchase, I want to be more mindful of what's sitting in the desk drawer or tucked away in the closet.

Get rid of clutter

I'm so over holding onto things I don't need. After moving back and forth so much, I just want to get rid of the excess of objects to focus on an endless number of new experiences.

Dress up for Pocahontas for Halloween

I am willing to hold off redoing the super blonde hair I once had to make this happen.

Learning when to hold onto it or to let it go

. . .

Go back to Europe

I was really bummed I couldn't make it happen last year, but I have a feeling that I'll make my way back this fall.  It could be Paris, London, Amsterdam, Vienna... Ideally, it would be those cities and a few more.

Explore nearby towns

While I save up for this European adventure, I definitely want to do more things in my own backyard in both Connecticut and Rhode Island. I'm more than familiar with Westport and South Norwalk or Saunderstown and Wickford, but I haven't bothered to spend more time in other towns like New Canaan or Tiverton.

But at least I spent so much of my time in Rhode Island playing in Newport...