I RESOLVE TO . . .

Resolutions - Day 361

Just five days and counting!   Are you ready for the New Year?  Are you ready to open your mind and Dare To Dream?  Pursue Your Dream?  Achieve Your Dream? 

Are you ready to stop waiting for 'Someday?'  Someday I'll write that book.  Someday I'll start exercising.  Someday I'll learn photography.  Someday I'll spend more quality time with my kids.  Someday I'll get a new job.  Someday I'll pay off my debt.  Someday, someday, someday . . .

Think about it.  Those somedays add up: days turn into months, months into years.  The years pass by so quickly.  Instead of waiting to 'pursue your dream someday far in the future' do it in 2007. 

We all have dreams.  They come in all shapes and sizes.  Big dreams, little dreams, medium- sized dreams - just like the people to which those dreams belong, all shapes and sizes, unique.  Some people pursue their dreams.  Some don't.  It's a matter of choice:  Your choice.  My Choice. We can act on our dreams in 2007, or we can let another year race by, waiting for that elusive 'someday'.  Do you want to live a life of achievement, or a life of regret?  Regret because you let all your days pass by without making time for yourself and your dreams, end of story. 

There is an alternative to regret.  In the next few days, consider making January 1, 2007 the day that you begin a new chapter in your life story, a chapter in which you actually write about your beloved dream, or one of many beloved dreams.  In January, Dare to Dream.  Dare to consider the possibility that you can pursue your dreams, big and small, if you pick just one and pusue it with a passion.  If you're not sure what your true dreams are, or which ones to pursue, or how to pursue them - drop by in the coming year.  I'll be here day after day - working on my 2007 dream:  helping you to achieve your dream, your 2007 New Year Resolution.

I've been making goals and resolutions throughout my life.  I've learned through trial and error what works and what doesn't work.  I've been fortunate in my life.  I've had mentors, teachers, friends, family - many, many people who have given me a helping hand along the way.  I want to offer the same helping hand to any and all who join me here with a sincere desire to pursue a dream, just one dream, one resolution:  One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  Give yourself the gift of time in 2007 - 365 days to take one small step after another toward the finish line, achieving your dream.  Once there, if you choose, you can enjoy that dream for the rest of your life.  You don't have to achieve it, forget about it, and move on to the next goal on your list. 

If you want to succeed, please consider a few Don'ts.  You don't have to make a list of 10-20 New Year Resolutions - things about yourself that you would like to change, but know you won't because the burden of so many goals is just too heavy (not to mention the fact that you have no true desire or committment to follow through).  You don't have to get discouraged and give up after a few weeks because you don't know where to begin, how to create a plan, or how to turn procrastination into motivation.  You don't have to go it alone.  You don't have to fail in 2007.

Above all, you don't have to achieve that dream - your 2007 New Year Resolution - OVERNIGHT.  Lower the bar just a little, give yourself some time to learn how to soar over it:  one year.  Imagine what you can achieve in a year, if you spend 20-30-minutes each day pursuing your resolution.  Imagine the rewards you will reap, the things you will learn, the new people you will meet, the places you will go and see.

Dare To Dream.  That's the first step.  Even if you don't quite make it to the finish line in 2007 - you'll have made it a lot farther than 'someday' . . . If you make the journey, you will reap rewards along the way, regardless of where you end up:  One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  Be a Resolution Revolutionary like me.  Let's 'go for it' in 2007!

Kim M. Simpson - December 27, 2006
Copyright I Resolve To * All Rights Reserved

Resolutions - Day 357

In just nine days we ring in the New Year!  Are you looking forward to a fresh start, a new year in which you'll have 365 opportunities to achieve your New Year resolution - your dream?  Maybe you really want to achieve your dream, but unfortunately you're one of the folks who practices the 'make em, break em' strategy of achieving resolutions.  You jot down a list of 10-20 things that you want to change in your life, then promptly bury it somewhere on your desk where it's ignored for the rest of the year.  If you sincerely want to achieve your resolution please open your mind and consider an alternative to the 'tried and failed' method pursuing New Year resolutions.  Consider the possibility that it's time to change the way you approach the practice of making and keeping New Year Resolutions.

Do me a favor.  Take a peek over your shoulder.  See that huge boulder chained to your back, that long list of 10-20 New Year Resolutions that you made January 1, 2006.  That boulder, in the form of all those resolutions is a well inteded weight that many of us carry around.  Well intended because change, achievement, self improvement are all healthy, worthwhile, productive goals.  But the weight of that huge boulder, that long list of resolutions, often makes us tired, overwhelmed, or bored, and it and slows true progress toward achieving our dreams.  Sometimes that weight forces us to give up.  We were unrealistic in making that long list.  We set the bar too high.  Maybe it's time to lower the bar just a little, so we can learn how to soar over it.

Get rid of the boulder on your back!  Cut the chains and it and let it roll back down the hill.  Forget about making a  long list of 10-20 resolutions for 2007.  Instead, lighten the load.  Grab your water bottle, snacks, a light jacket, and a good pair of tennis shoes.  If you're going to hike up the mountain toward the pinnacle of success in 2007 - make that journey with just one resolution, a dream about which you are truly passionate.  A resolution that makes you excited, something that you want to 'do' each and every day.  And if that's not realistic, a resolution that you can pursue a few days each week for one year - committment and daily, weekly, monthly devotion are among the keys to success.

If you really want to achieve your New Year Resolution, your dream, join me here in 2007.  Trust me: there are no gimmicks for sale.  The simple, common-sense system that I offer is free to anyone who is sincerely interested in making and keeping one resolution in 2007.  I'll provide my step-by-step system if you'll bring a sense of passion, determination, optimism, faith, and hope. 

In the next nine days, open your mind and Dare To Dream.  Take a look at the IResolveToPromise.pdf  - consider making making that promise to yourself in 2007.  Promise that you will pursue one resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Join the Resolution Revolution.  Let's 'go for it' in 2007!  Happy Holidays

Kim M. Simpson - December 23, 2006
Copyright I Resolve To * All Rights Reserved

Resolutions - Day 354

A wonderful opportunity is just around the corner!  In just 12 days you and I will celebrate New Year's Day.  A centuries old tradition, folks reflect on what they've achieved in the past year, what they would like change and achieve in the New Year.  Personally, I use it as a brand new blank sheet of paper on which I can write a new chapter in my life.  One of my New Year rituals is to throw open the windows, clean my house, and get my life organized, and de-cluttered.  It's a prelude for achievement: One resolution, one day at a time for one year!

If you open your mind and dare to dream, 2007 can be an exciting year full of challenge and fulfillment.  Sounds big, broad and vague doesn't it?  Well, let me bring it down to earth.  In 2007 you can make a choice to pursue a treasured dream that has languished.  Maybe you've never admitted to anyone that you even have a dream.  Maybe your dream is just a tiny spark in your heart and mind.  The new year can be an opportunity to turn the spark into a flame, pursue your dream. 

Just one dream.  You don't have to change your life overnight.  You don't have to draft the same long, tired list of New Year Resolutions that you stuffed in your desk drawer last January.  In 2007 pursue just one dream - One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  You don't need to move a boulder up a mountain in 2007:  race from one resolution to another, until you finally get so overwhelmed and exhausted that you give up!  There is an alternative.

Join me here at IResolveTo in January. I'll provide a step-by-step guide for how you can achieve your dream.  If you're not sure which dream to pursue, I can help you with that too.  Take the first step right now:  Dare to Dream!  Open your mind and consider the possibility that you can achieve your 2007 New Year Resolution - your dream - if you make that choice.  If you believe in yourself and your dream, and if you give yourself the gift of time - 365-days - you will be rewarded with success and fulfillment.

Just think, if you pursue one dream each year, those achevements will be with you for your entire life.  You'll end up with a long list of New Year Resolutions that you 'MADE AND KEPT', instead of a drawer full Resolutions that never saw the light of day because they were unrealistic and ill-conceived.  And because you raised the bar so high, you never gave yourself a chance to grow and learn enough to actually make the big leap over it!

Achieving a New Year Resolution - a dream - requires a leap of faith.  It takes committment and hard work.  It takes a promise that you make to yourself to make time for yourself and your dream in 2007.  Open your mind.  Dare to dream.  Then make that all important decision in January to 'go for it' in 2007.  One resolution, one day at a time for one year!  Happy Holidays!

Kim M. Simpson - December 20, 2006
Copyright I Resolve To * All Rights Reserved

Resolutions - Day 352

Based on everything you read and hear about New Year Resolutions, you'd think 'making and keeping' them is a near-dead practice.  Personally, I'm not giving up, and I hope you'll consider making one New Year Resolution in 2007, and sticking with it.

New Year Resolutions may very well be 'antiques', a beloved practice from a bygone era.  But, instead of giving up on them - throwing them in the 'trash heap' - in 2007, consider dusting them off and applying a bit of 'spit and polish'.  Join the Resolution Revolution in 2007.  On January 1, open your mind, dare to dream, and change the way you create your New Year Resolutions. 

Instead of drawing up a 'tired' list of a dozen things you think you should change about yourself - consider changing the way you think about the practice of 'making and keeping New Year Resolutions'.

This year, if you're like me and you want to be true to yourself, your desire to achieve your dreams - you'll give yourself a gift.  You'll lower the bar just a little.  Forget the tough love and intense pressure to fulfill one resolution and move on.  Forget about the list of 10-20 resolutions.  Make just one.  It doesn't mean you won't get out of bed and go to work each day; work hard to be a good parent; strive to care for your health.  You'll do all those things and a lot more.  But you'll also make time for yourself to do something 'for yourself', pursue a cherished, heartfelt dream. 

Pursue that dream with a passion, and If you stick with it day after day, on January 1, 2008, you'll be able to say:  'WOW, I achieved my dream' instead of, 'Oh, I don't remember where I put my list of 10 resolutions'. 

In 2007, I'm going to be right here, each and every day with advice, tips, and a system that works in the form of a weekly column (easy to print PDF format), and an EBook.  I'm not offering any gimmicks.  I'm not going to give you something for free, then turn around and try to sell you something else for hundreds of dollars.  If you want to achieve a cherished dream in 2007, join me here, for free!  Join the Resolution Revolution:  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' together in 2007! :)

Copyright I Resolve To  *  All Rights Reserved  *  Content from this blog may be printed strictly for personal, non-commercial use.

Resolutions - Day 349

Yes, the New Year is right around the corner.  Just 17 days and counting! Are you enjoying the holiday season, lots of parties and good times leading up to the New Year?  I hope you are.  As I mentioned yesterday, I love this time of the year.  The good moods, good wishes, holiday cheer.  With the season comes busy, busy, busy days.  Folks trying to cram as much into the day as they possibly can.  I was at a holiday party last evening chatting with some colleagues.  The conversation ultimately turned to the New Year and making resolutions - not surprising, since it's one of my favorite topics.

My colleagues echoed something that I hear so often.  Naaah, 'not going to make resolutions this year, not enough time'.  Earlier this week, chatting with another colleague, she mentioned that she isn't making resolutions this year.  Same reason.  But she did say that she's trying to make time for herself on a regular basis, even if it's just heading outside to take a nice long walk with the dog.  We both laughed because she was still 'multi-tasking', even as she was making time for herself.

Time is one of our most valuable assets.  Given its value and scarcity, only 24-hours in a day (most days I wish I had twice my allotment), how we use our time is very important.  That's one of the reasons I so strongly believe in the concept of pursuing just one cherished dream each year.  Doesn't mean you're not working hard in a lot of other areas of your life (work, family, hobbies, religious activities, school), but each one of us needs to set aside some time each and every day just to pursue something about which we are passionate.  Something that we truly enjoy.

For every person, there's a different passion:  sports, writing, travel, photography, art, music . . . the list is endless.  You probably have a cherished dream.  Maybe you want to write a book, learn to play the piano, learn to be a photographer, travel to Europe for the first time, or . . . so many choices and options.  So few hours in the day.

If you're thinking about abandoning the whole concept of making a New Year Resolution this year (as so many people do) don't give up just yet.  Consider making one resolution.  Make one promise to yourself that you will devote 20-30 minutes each day to that dream, that passion.  Some days you won't have time time, but you'll make up for it on other days.

So open your mind, consider the possibilities. Dare to dream, then make that all important decision to pursue that dream:  One Resolution, One Day At A time For One Year.  Become a Resolution Revolutionary like me.  Let's go for it in 2007!  :)

Copyright I Resolve To  *  All Rights Reserved

 

Resolutions - Day 348

Just 18 days and counting until New Year's Day!  I'm so looking forward to the start of the new year on January 1. I view each and every day as a gift - one more opportunity to enjoy my life, achieve my dreams, and give something back to the community in which I live. 

At this time of the year, one of my personal traditions is to reflect on what I've accomplished, what I've learned, and where I want to travel next on this wonderful journey.  I make it my habit to record my dreams and resolutions in journals.  Each year it's interesting to look back on the successes, mistakes, lessons learned, and on what is still lingering on the list of unfulfilled goals.  In the next two weeks I'll share some of those reflections.

If you're doing your own reflecting, consider taking one additional step in 2007, actually a leap:  Open your mind and dare to dream.  Maybe it's time to pursue a cherished dream - one that you haven't had the courage to pursue, but you refuse to send it to the goal graveyard.  You have a spark of hope that you will oneday achieve your dream - 2007 can be the year that you turn the spark into a flame.

Achieving dreams, resolutions goals is actually a series of steps - each one a leap of faith.  If you can open your mind, believe in yourself and your ability to achieve your dream it's time to take the nex step:  Decide.  Resolve, after all is to decide firmly with great determination.  There is no time better than the present to make that leap of faith.  The act of pursuing and achieving your dream can and will help you to find fulfillment in your life.  I'm not going to predict it's going to change your life forever, or make 2007 the best year you've ever had.  Without question, you're going to hit bumps in the road, we all do, that's life.  But each and every time you put your heart and soul into something you love, you will learn something, reap rewards and find personal fullfilment. 

The size of the dream is no matter.  It's your dream and that's all that counts.  It's important to you.  If you can take those first two steps in the New Year:  Dare to Dream, and Decide to pursue your dream, the next steps, one after another will flow from your conviction to make your dream a reality in 2007.

I intend to show up here each and every day to describe a system that works:  the rest of the steps that will help you to achieve your dream in 2007.  I'll be to offer advice, and a shoulder to lean on.  Each week I'll present a column in an easy to print PDF format.  In the Spring of 2007 I'll provide a comprehensive EBook to get you through the rest of the year.  Each week, I'll be working on my on dream, my 2007 resolution:  to help you achieve your dream. 

Become a resolution revolutionary like me.  It's time to drastically change the way you think about New Year Resolutions and goals.  In 2007 say 'no' to that tired, old list of 'stuff' that you think you should change about yourself, or think you should do, but know you will discard as soon as you put pen to paper.  Make January 1 a truly new day, a day in which you promise yourself that you will pursue your cherished dream.

Procrastination reaps regret.  Action reaps achievement.  Turn that spark into a flame, make your dream a reality!

One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2007.

Copyright I Resolve To  *  All Rights Reserved

Resolutions - Day 346

In just 20 days we will ring in the New Year!  I'm excited.  I love Christmas and the New Year.  I've been making and keeping New Year resolutions most of my life, so it's a special time of the year for me.  Maybe for you too.  Did you make and keep a New Year resolution in 2006?  If your answer is 'YES', congratulations! 

If your answer is 'yes' and 'no, I gave up', I'm sorry to hear that, but I'm not surprised.  New Year revelers commonly make a long list of things they want to change about themselves - I like to call it the 'sins list', stop drinking, stop smoking, stop over-spending, stop -over-eating, you get the gist.  The list of 'sins' is drawn up on January 1, and promptly ignored on January 2.  The reason:   no fun, too much work, too hard, not interested . . .

No suprise there either.  It takes a lot of time, determination and courage to tackle and achieve just one resolution, especially if it's a habit or behavior that you don't really want to change, but know you should to improve your life.

Maybe it's time to think of New Year resolutions in a different way.  I'm stubborn.  I don't want to abandon the practice of making resolutions.  It's a wonderful way to achieve great things.  January 1 is a perfect day to begin the journey toward achievement - its a day in which you have a clean slate - 365 more glorious days to enjoy your life! 

If you're thinking about making a resolution, I ask you open your mind on January 1, 2007.  Frame your New Year resolution in a different way.  Become a Resolution Revolutionary like me:  think outside the box.  Just because most people pursue New Year resolutions in a way that leads to failure doesn't mean you have to do the same.  Consider a different way of making and keeping resolutions.  A way that works.

First:   Make just one resolution for 2007.  What would you love to achieve more than anything?  What is your dream?  What would you do if you had all the money and time in the world?  I've asked myself those question many times.  My response is always the same:  writing and photography top the list.  My resolution in recent years has been to exercise daily because I enjoy it, but also because I'm using myself and my exercise resolution as a case-study for how to achieve resolutions.  My dream is to help people to achieve 'their' resolutions, their dreams - one resolution, one day at a time.

Second:  You don't have to achieve your resolution, your dream, overnight.  Great athletes don't break records overnight.  Great writers don't write best sellers overnight.  They work passionately to achieve their dreams day after day - one day at a time.  You can too.  You can achieve your dream, one resolution, one day at a time for one year.  If you put in just 30-minutes each day, that time compounds like interest in a bank account:  7.5 full 24-hour days devoted toward your resolution in one year.  That's a lot of time to work toward a cherished dream.

Third:  You don't have to go it alone.  Join me here.  I intend to lend moral support to any and all who join me in this journey.  After you've made a firm decision (resolve) to pursue your resolution, enlist your family, get them involved.  Seek out friends who share your dream, work together.  Take a class, join a club.  There are so many options and choices.  So many different ways to meet and work with like-minded souls who share your interest and may be working toward the eact same dream!

Fourth:  Develop a plan.  It's pretty difficult to travel from New York to Los Angeles without a roadmap.  Same goes for achieving resolutions.  You need a plan, a resolution roadmap that will  guide you to your final destination - take you to soaring heights, and get you past the pot holes.  Creating and maintaining a plan isn't hard, but it's vitally important.  I can guide you through the process. 

In the next few weeks open your mind and 'Dare to Dream'.  Think about what you would love to achieve more than anything else.  Imagine achieving that dream.  Wouldn't it be wonderful?  You don't have to do it overnight.  You don't have to do it alone.  You can do it.  You can achieve your dream in 2007.  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Become a Resolution Revolutionary like me.  Let's 'go for it' in 2007 with passion, determination, faith, hope, and an abundance of optimism. 

Resolutions - Day 345

Just 21 days until New Year's Day 2007!  Amazing how quickly the year has passed.  It's been a crazy, busy, busy year for me - you too, I'm sure.  With that in mind, I took a sabbatical of sorts this Fall.  My 'To Do List' wasn't getting shorter;  a project into which I poured my heart and soul sputtered;, and I sensed I was nearing burn-out.  So I followed one of my own I Resolve To Don'ts:  'Don't grow bored and weary, or burn out. 

I began pushing to the back burner some things that I love to do, including my blogs and my I Resolve To project.  I worked out a couple days each week, instead of 30-minute daily work outs (my 2006 resolution is to work out for 30-60 minutes daily).  Essentially, I reduced expectations. I lowered the bar that I'm expected to leap over each day.   From mid-September until this past weekend I backed off just a bit on the 'go, go, go' lifestyle that is so common in the Washington, DC region. I took some naps!  I turned off my blackberry and the news more often.  I skipped periodic weekends filled with yard work. 

I kept up with my business projects - it was an election year after all - but I just chilled a bit on personal and professional projects that weren't time sensitive.  It was the best course of action I could have taken.  I'm not as rested as I would like to be, but that will come in time.  Giving my  brain and body a little rest has produced new energy, enthusiasm and passion for all the many things that I love to do. 

With that in mind, I have some new plans for this blog and my resolution project.  For the folks who drop by for a bit of inspiration about their own resolutions, in 2007 I'm going to continue to post uplifting quotes, and articles, along with updates on my own resolution progress.  More importantly, I plan to post a weekly column in easy to print PDF format that will be filled with tips and information about achieving your dream - your 2007 New Year Resolution.  An EBook is also in the works, so stay tuned!

Yes, as I've been preaching all year - One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  As we approach New Year's Day 2007 try something different.  Don't mull the list of 10-20 things you hate about yourself - things you would like to change.  You'll set yourself up for failure from the very beginning of the New Year.  It's no wonder that New Year Resolutions are almost extinct, folks just don't 'make 'em and keep em' anymore.  That list, drafted on January 1, will begin collecting dust on January 2.  Daily life is so chock full of 'stuff to do' who wants yet another long, unhappy list  of 'stuff to do'? 

Instead, think of this New Year's Day as an opportunity to start anew - including the way you think about the New Year, and making New Year Resolutions.  The New Year can be a golden opportunity to pursue your dream.  We all have dreams.  Why not make a promise to yourself on Janary 1 to pursue one cherished dream in 2007 - something you've always wanted to accomplish.  Think about it.  In coming days, I'll have a lot more to say about a 2007 strategy for achieving your 2007 New Year Resolution - your dream.  I'll be here all year.  Let's make the journey together.

In 2007, join me - become a RESOLUTION REVOLUTIONARY:  One resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  Make Each Day Count.  Make each and every day New Year's Day.  Let's 'go for it' together in 2007!

Resolutions - Day 248

Just 118 days until New Year's Day 2007!  Anyone out there still working on their resolutions - goals, dreams?  If you are, good for you!  If you're not - and you're procrastinating, stop!  Stop procrastinating, and put some time and thought into how to achieve your dream today!

I'm interested in hearing from like-minded folks who are working on their resolutions, dreams, goals - or those who would like to.  We can all use moral support, and it would be fun to share experiences.  So, drop me a line - tell me what you're up to.  If I can help, I will.  Remember:  One resolution, one day at a time for one year - Let's 'go for it' in 2006, and soon 2007!  ;) . . .

Resolutions - Day 247

OBE!!  Some days are just like that.  You're totally overtaken by events.  That's how my weekend was, unfortunately.  The hurricane season is upon us - a small storm rolled up the coast on Friday - and left us without power in my neighborhood for a good chunk of the weekend.  Trust me, I tried to make the best of it.  I worked on projects that I could tackle without power.  I got some extra sleep (I'm not into reading in the dark with a flashlight, so I hit the sheets at 10 PM on Saturday night).  I Went to my gym for a shower (haven't been there for awhile, so I guess the power outage did some good, as I now have Sport & Health's new listing of classes, and I may hit some of the Yoga sessions soon).  So, all in all, when things don't go as you plan (as is so often the case), you sometimes have to punt - make the very best of it that you can.

There is always plan B, C, & D.  Likewise with your dreams, goals and resolutions.  There are always barriers, roadblocks, nuisances, problems, etc. - you get my drift - 'stuff' that gets in the way of what you are trying to achieve.  That's when flexibility and a sense of humor come in handy.  I'll admit, I didn't have much of a sense of humor this weekend.  When my neighbors invited me over for french toast this morning, I told them I wasn't in a great mood and didn't think french toast would help - but later did stop by to say 'hello' and thank them for all their offers of assistance.  Then I hit steamroom.  I felt much better after my shower.  And now, here I am.  I am behind schedule with a lot of my work and creative projects, but it's not the end of the world.  I'll get caught up.  Likewise when you're working toward your dreams, setbacks and obstacles will present themselves, but the can be overcome, and once you get beyond them, you may not remember 'what all the fuss was about.'

So, stick with it!  Don't let troubles get you down too much, they typically pass quickly.  And don't forget:  One resolution (dream) - one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006! :)

Resolutions - Day 244

Just 122 days until New Year's Day 2007, folks!!  So, are you working on your resolutions, your goals, your heartfelt dreams.  If so, wonderful!!  If not, why?  Procrastinating will get you nowhere, and nothing but regrets (another day passes that you're not channeling your attention toward something you truly love and care about).

If you have a dream that you can't let go of - yet can't seem to pursue - stop and think about why you're not moving forward. Fear, lack motivation, confusion about where to start, what to do first, how to do it?  You can pursue your dream.  But you need to be committed.  You need a plan.  And you need to take it one day at a time, one small step at a time.  So, think about it.  Make a committment today to move forward.  One resolution (one dream), one day at a time for one year.  Let's go for it in '2006'.  :)  Yes, you can do it!

Daily Exercise - Day 244

No sunshine today - rain, rain, rain!!  Just fine with me, it's been so dry of late, I'm happy I wasn't forced to do a raindance! Today was a wonderful 'veg' day.  The only outdoor activity for me today was cleaning the leaves out of the pool (numerous trips - the drought has brought on a very very early fall in the Mid-Atlantic Region, unfortunately).  The rest of the day I puttered - and took a nice long nap late in the afternoon. What a joy!  Naps are so wonderful.

For the third day, no pool time unfortately - I'm heading into withdrawl! :) I  Need to get work in some nice long work outs this weekend, and looking forward to it.  For tonight - I'll be plently satisfied with light Yoga and stretching.  By Monday/Tuesday at the latest, I'll be back in the pool, and weed whacking in my yard and garden bed (I'm ready!  Point me in the direction of my riding mower!)  Until then . . .

Resolutions - Day 236

Just 130 days until New Year's Day 2007.  Amazing!  I've said it many times before:  this year is passing so quickly!  I think it's time to begin reviewing how what I've accomplished in 2006 with my resolution to exercise each day for at least 30-minutes.  And I need to take a look at my resolution book project.  I've been so busy, of late, with work and my TourPath tours, that I've been neglecting this blog and my writing project.  It's ime to get back to both - start posting again each day about my book project, and develop my outline, sample chapters, sample columns, etc. (I would like to try to sell a column to my local newspaper).  Lots to do - more importantly, it's time to take this project off the back burner soon.

That said, I have made huge progress this year with business/work, my creative projects, and I've been exercising pretty religiously - if not every day, at least 4-6 days each week (walking, swimming, biking, yoga, stretching, and weights - not all at once, but different sports/exercises during different seasons).  So, bottom line, I need to review what I've achieved, and what I hope to achieve for the rest of the year, hence a new action plan for my top goals and creative project.

If you're not working on your dreams and goals, never too late!  Start today:  One resolution, one day at at time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!  :)

Resolutions - Day 233

Kind of cloudy today - thankfully, since I'm crashing on some work projects both running around DC and in my office!  I've made some huge progress this past couple of months with all my work and creative projects.  Great news!  Am starting to feel somewhat caugt up - still a lot to do, but have completed a huge pile of work of late.  That should leave some time in upcoming weeks to finish my TourPath Tours, work on my resolution book and maybe chill a little bit.  Really looking forward to just sitting down with a book at some point soon!  That said, I don't mind all this hard work.  These new creative projects have really infused some energy into my work/personal life - all good stuff! For now, I need get off here!  Better 'get to it'.

Resolutions - Day 225

Only 141 days until New Year's Day 2007!  I can't believe how quickly this year is passing by.  Even when you try to live each day, one day at a time, just flies by.  Amazing.  With that in mind I've been working to make the best of each and every day this year, and succeeding most of the time I think.  That's the good news - and well, there is no bad news!  I'm still working on my resolutio to exercise for 30 or more minutes each day - and most days I'm doing just that. 

I've fallen off a little this summer on this project - my book to help people to achieve their New Year Resolutions.  That's due to a new project that I've been working on that has been chewing up an awful lot of time - TourPath Multi-media tours.  Has been interesting and fun putting together my DC Tour, and soon I'll be working on tours for Fredericksburg, Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County in Virginia.  A lot of work - I hope it pays off down the road!  For now, as with my resolution project, just taking it one day at a time, one small step at a time.  The work will get done, and it will work out for the best. 

Faith, hope, optimism, hard work, passion, creativity - all are important ingredients when you're working toward a dream, goal, or resolution.  Is your resolution still on the frontburner - or collecting dust?  Never too late to start - the trick is to stop procrastinating.  So, make today the day.  One resolution, one day at a time for one year - Let's 'go for it' in 2006!  :)

Daily Exercise - Day 223

Yep, that wonderful day of the week - Friday!!  Thank goodness we're ending the week with some cooler temperatures and it actually rained yesterday - gave my poor plants a drink!  I didn't make it into the pool today or yesterday - but I did do about 90-minutes of yardwork - 30, non-mowing, so I guess that qualifies as my daily work out.  Tomorrow I think I need to hit the pool for my laps first thing, before I start my yard work, that way I'll be sure to do them!  Until then . . .

Resolutions - Day 213

Just 153 days until New Year's Day!  No I'm not crazy.  Yes, I know there's a heatwave and most folks are focused on trying to stay cool; or if not cool, lukewarm.  That doesn't mean you have to give up on your dreams, goals and resolutions for the summer.  I know I've had a hard time making my way here to post everyday, but I have been working on my goals - trying to exercise for 30-minutes each day, for instance (and I am working out 4-6 days each week for 30-minutes or more, that's the good news).  My resolution book project is on a brief hiatus, while I work on some other creative projects this summer, but I still have my plan, know what I need to do, and I will do it later this year. 

Most days I wish I had twice the number of hours, that's not going to happen, so I have to improvise, and do the best that I can.  When it comes to achieving dreams, goals and resolutions - doing the best you can - is what counts.  It will get you there - wherever you're headed with your dream - just takes hope, faith, passion, determination, lots of sweat equity, and a plan.

When you have a plan, the rest is easy.  One small step at a time, one day at a time, will help you to achieve your goal.  Just put in your time every day - 30-minutes or whatever you can spare - and take the multitude of 'small steps' that are necessary, and you'll eventually achieve your dream.

If you're procrastinating, STOP.  Putting things off for another day won't get you anything but grief and frustration.  Instead, today make a decision to start working on your dream, and as you go, keep in mind:  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

It's never too late.  Start today!

Life . . .

"Life is trying thing to see if they work."

Ray Bradbury

Resolutions - Day 200

Just 166 days to New Year's Day 2007 folks!  Been working on those resolutions, goals and dreams?  Fallen off the wagon?  Given up?  Gotten inspired, and 'revved up'?  Yep, there are so many emotions, ups and downs, ins and outs, when you're working toward a goal, resolution or dream.  It's not easy to make a promise to yourself that you will follow through, pursue your dream - then do it! It's not easy to create a plan that will take you to the finish line - then pursue it to the end!  It's not easy to make time each day to work toward achieving your resolution, keep that enthusiasim high, and fight off the urge to 'procrastinate'.  No, never easy.

What in life, that's worth having, is easy?!?  So get over all that. Make a firm decision - resolve - to take one small step each day toward achieveing your resolution, then do it.  The pay off will be huge - such a wonderful sense of fulfillment when you achieve your resolution, your goal.  So Keep in mind:  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006! 

165 Days Left In 2006 - Make Each One Count!

Daily Exercise - Day 196

Hot, Hot Hot Day!!  Didn't stop me from heading out to do my yard work and gardening.  The thought of falling behind on an acre of mowing, trimming, weeding, and general clean up was enough to propel me out the door this afternoon.  I drank a lot of water, took breaks and got a lot done in what turned out to be a marathon session, seven hours.  Once I get out there, and get going, I have a hard time quitting.  Usually darkness is what finally forces me indoors.  Bottom line, I was really pooped, but I felt great - my yard looks great, and I'm hoping the exercise will continue to help me to achieve my goals of toning up, losing a couple pounds, and generally improving my fitness and endurance.  That said, I think I'll hit the pool tomorrow instead of working my butt off in the yard!  :)  Until then . . .

Daily Exercise - Day 194

Certainly did a lot of running around today - lots of work - but 'alas' not a work out day.  Pooped tonight, so I didn't make it into my pool after my trek around the DC metro area and Chevy Chase.  But the weekend is coming so I'll have time to hit the pool, do my laps, and some work in the yard/garden.  Looiking forward to the weekend!  Until then . . .

Resolutions - Day 192

Definitely OBE recently!  Work has kept me pretty busy and kept me away from my resolution blog-project, but I'm back.  The good news:  I'm doing my daily work outs, and it's much easier now that summer is here.  I hit the pool pretty much everyday to do my 30-45-minutes of laps, and have been doing six hours of gardening on Saturdays, so I'm definitely sticking with my resolution to exercise for at least 30-minutes each day.

My regular workload has been pretty heavy of late, and a new project - TourPath - has been chewing up time, but I'm not giving up on my resolution book project!  I'm keeping an eye on the calendar:  174 days until New Year's Day 2007.  Last week we hit the mid-year point, so folks, keep in mind there are six more months in 2006 to work toward your dreams, goals and resolutions!

Even when you fall off the wagon as I have recently - I just haven't had much time to devote to my resolution project - K know I can always climb back on the wagon, and get things rolling again!  Just keep these Five 'Do's' in mind:

• Dare to Dream - Open your mind to the possibility that you can achieve your dream.
• Decide -  Make a firm decision to pursue your dream, then go for it.
• Define - Define, specifically, in one sentence, what you want to achieve (in a way that you can apply deadlines, timelines, and develop a plan to achieve your dream).
• Develop a Plan - Do your homework/research, then develop a preliminary plan that includes all the many small steps that are necessary to achieve your dream (from a short-term and long-term perspective), then revise your plan accordingly as you progress toward the finish line).
• Do It Daily - Each day try to set aside 20-minutes, 30-minutes, an hour (whatever time you have available), so that you can tackle one small step toward achieving your goal;  each small step builds, on the next small step, until you reach the final outcome - achieving your dream.

It's important to keep in mind Five Don'ts as well:

• Don't Procrastinate - Procrastination is your worst enemy when you're trying to achieve a dream or a resolution, don't give in to it;  even on those days when you don't feel like working on your goal, do it anyway, you'll make progress, and feel better than you would if you put it off for another day.
• Don't Get Discouraged - There will be days when you can't devote any time toward your goal, or don't feel like you're making progress, but take heart, there will be good days also when you can pat yourself on the back for all that you've achieved.
• Don't Get Overwhelmed -  Any dream, any goal or resolution requires many, many small steps - 'Rome wasn't built in a day' as they say, and it's not possible to achieve a dream in one day;  just take one small step after another, day after day, and you will eventually achievce your dream.
• Don't Give Into Fear of Success Or Fear of Failure - Fear, whether of success or failure, is another enemy of achieving dreams; don't let 'worry' about failure (what will happen if you fail) or 'worry' about success (what will happen if you succeed) impede your progress because worry is wasted energy, devote your time instead to focusing on steps you need to take to achieve your dream.
• Don't Give Up - Yes, there will be rough days, days when you feel like you have no hope of achieving your dream, that's when you have to let hope and faith in yourself and your dream take over;  keep in mind you've come this far, you'll feel better in the long run if you tough it out, stick with it until you reach the finish line, and achieve that dream, goal, resolution.

That's it in a nutshell, the principles that you need when you're working toward a cherished dream, a goal, a New Year Resolution.  Yes, you can achieve your dream - start today!  Keep in mind:  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

Resolutions - Day 184

Just 182 days until New Year's Day 2007!  Okay folks - do you have the remotest idea of what your New Year resolution was for this year??  No matter if you forgot, have totally given up, or have thrown in the towel.  Tomorrow is a new day.   We're half-way through 2006, which means there is still plenty of time to commit yourself to working on your resolution, your dream, or one of your life goals!

Stop procrastinating, right now.  You'll actually feel better.  Get rid of the stress that is saddling you like  a work mule (that nagging feeling that you should be working toward your dream but you keep putting it off - day after day after day).  Dare to dream:  wouldn't it be wonderful to actually pursue your heartfelt dream?  Open your mind and allow yourself to believe you can achieve your dream. 

Then, make a firm decision, a promise to yourelf right now to pursue your dream, your resolution.  Next, define specifically what you want to achieve - in one sentence.  Then, develop a plan.  And . . . Do it daily.  In a nutshell those are the five steps that I've been writing about for the past six months.  They do work.  So think about it.  You can pursue your dream!

One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

Resolutions - Day 178

New Years Day is just 188 days away, folks! Yep, we're almost at the halfway mark in the year.  So how is it going?  Still working on your dreams and resolutions?  Or did you abandon them long ago?  I'm not going to say:  'Shame on you!', if you did abandon your resolution a long time ago.  You probably already feel guilty enough about that;  I don't need to add to the guilt.

That said, achieving dreams isn't about guilt.  It's about making a decision to pursue that dream and sticking with the decision.  Yes, there are plenty of days that you won't have time or the determination to stick with it - but there's always tomorrow.  Always another opportunity to try again. Always remember, each day that you work toward your dream, your resolution is a small victory - and those small victories add up over time, like money collecting interest in the bank.

That lends itself to more and more confidence over time - and eventually you'll cross the finish line.  You'll achieve your dream.  Stop procrastinating!  Start today!  Five easy steps: 1)  Dare to Dream; 2) Decide;  3)  Define;  4) Develop a  plan, and; 5)  Do it daily.  Easy to understand, easy to implement.  Yes there will be rough days - days that you don't have time to devote, but those days alwasy pass, and you'll get back on track.

So . . . make that decision today.  Pursue your dream!  One resolution, one day at a time for one year!  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

Resolutions - Day 177

A nice break!  Sometimes taking a nice break is just what you need to re-charge the batteries (work, personal, creative batteries).  In this case, I decided I needed a long-weekend 'kind of break' - I headed to New York to get out of my element, away from my home and work chores, and into a whole host of new sights, sounds, smells, people events . . .

Yes, I did a huge amount of walking.  I spent some time with my creative projects (especially on the train ride to and from New York).  I took in a musical: The Drowsy Chaperone.  I took in a movie.  I spend time with good friends, had great food and drink.  It was a wonderful weekend.  So much to  do, so little time!  So, even though today I'm back at work, crashing on projects, I feel good.  I have a lot to do this summer with my business, my resolution book, my TourPath project, exercise, gardening, and on and on - it's all good. 

And it gives me greater energy to move forward my goals and resolutions.  Success breeds success, as the old saying goes - and along that vein, positive energy, and a positive attitudude does the same.  So . . . pull that dream, that resolution out of the mothballs - stop procrastinating.  Today is the day!  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  You'll feel much better if you give in to your desire to pursue that dream!  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

Resolutions - Day 168

Guess how many days until New Year's Day 2007?  That's probably the last thing on your mind right now, huh? :)   Well, the answer is 198 days until New Year's Day 2007.  Which means, you still have nearly 200 days left in this calendar year to work toward your dream, your resolution, your heartfelt goal.  Time passes so quickly.  I'm always amazed how quickly time passes . . . don't let another minute pass if you've been putting off that dream.

I know you don't want to look at the calendard in 2009 and say "where has the time gone?   Then the questions multiply.  Why didn't I pursue my dream to write my novel.  Or why didn't I pursue my dream to go back to school?  Or why didn't I pursue my dream to run a marathon?  Or why didn't I pursue my dream to: _______________.  Why?

Personally, I don't believe in the 'coulda, shoulda, woulda' philosophy of life.  I really believe at some point you have to take ownership of your dream, make a commitment to pursue it actively on a daily basis, and 'just do it'!  If you do, you'll feel a huge sense of relief, believe me.  That dream, that goal, that resolution has been nagging at you for a long time.  I know how that goes.  So, stop procrastinating.  Stop putting it off.  Stop!  Start something new.  Make a decision today to pursue your dream, your resolution . . .

One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

Resolutions - Day 167

Yep, that wonderful day of the week - Friday! I decided to take the night off, no exercise, just relaxing and maybe hitting my newspaper pile.  Looks like it's going to be sunny and hot both Saturday and Sunday, which is just fine with me.  I love these summer days.  Tomorrow, I'll hit the pool before a full day of gardening.  Lots to look forward to this weekend!  Until then . . .

Resolutions - Day 166

My posts have been somewhat thin of late, mostly due to the crush of activity around work and creative projects.  Work is hyper-busy this month, and I took on a new creative project (yes, I know -  as if I need one more thing to do!).  But sometimes oportunities drop from the sky - serendipity - and you just have to follow your heart.  I've always been good at that.  Yes, I'm a dreamer - dreams big and small.  Yes, I do trust my instincts (something a dreamer would do).  Yes, now and then I throw caution to the wind.  It certainly oes make life interesting - but at the end of the day, I do end up achieving my dreams . . . one small step at at a time.

Yes, I'm working on my resolution to work out for 30-minutes each day (laps today) and on my book on 'how to' achieve New Year resolutions.  So things are moving along, slowly, gradually - but they're moving along. 

How are things going for you, your resolutios and your dreams?  Are you working diligently on them, or have they been relegated to the back seat where they're nice and cozy, far from sight.  Far enough from sight not to work on them everyday, but not far enough to remind you that you have a heartfelt dream that you're not pursuing - but one that you want to pursue!

Stop procrastinating.  Whatever it is that you truly want to achieve - start today - take that one small step, followed by another small step, and another one . . . and onward.  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006! :)

Resolutions - Day 162

It's been a few days since I last posted on achieving resolutions, goals and dreams. Yep, I'm still working on mine - are you?  Even on those days that I'm OBE - Overtaken By Events - which seems to happen often, I'm still striving to devote 20-30-minutes toward my resolutions for 2006. 

In my case, it's two-fold:  to work out each day for at least 30-60-minutes; and to write my book on how to achieve New Year Resolutions. I'm pretty faithful to my goals - even on the rough days.  And  on those really rough days when I don't have a moment to spare, I just look toward the tomorrow: another opportunity to push toward my goals, resolutions and dreams.

If you're not working on that heartfelt dream or goal, but you really want to begin, it's not that difficult! Just five, simple steps:  1)  Dare to Dream; 2)  Decide;  3)  Define;  4)  Develop A Plan, and ; 5)  Do It Daily. 

Though the steps are simple to comprehend, and easy to follow - you do have to apply some true 'sweat equity', you have to be:   determined, committed, focused, passionate, patient, faithful, and hopeful.  It might sound like a tall order, but if you truly want something bad enough, all of these traits come into play.  So, how badly do you want to achieve your goal, your dream?

Think about it.  You can do it:  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!

Daily Exercise - Day 162

Another absolutely gorgeous day, thank you!  Sunny and mild Sundy - can't ask for anything more.  Slept late again - wonderful way to start a weekend day off!  But the rest of the day was busy, mixed with relaxed.  Worked in the garden for a few hours and swam laps for 30-minutes - so I definitely put in my exercise/meditation time today.  I think if I did a little of both each day - my days would be mostly 'balanced' which is what I'm striving for 'balance' and 'good health'.  So onward!  Tomorrow will be busy - may not have time for much more than Yoga and stretching - but will definitely get back to laps on Tuesday.  Until then . . .

Resolutions - Day 157

Happy Summer! The wonderful warm, sunny weather is finally here, which makes life so much easier and enjoyable even on those tough, busy days.  On those days that I don't have much time for 'me', I find if I spend just 30-minutes outside - relaxing, swimming, gardening, whatever the spirit moves me - it really makes my day and makes me feel great.  Today was one of those days, 30-minutes in the pool really made a huge difference. 

Success is all about those small steps, small chunks carved out of each day just for you when you're working toward a goal.  If you can devote just 30-minutes each day for you and your dream, your resolution, your goal it makes a tremendous difference.  As important, over time those small chunks of time and small steps add up.  You may not realize it as you work patiently, gradually, methodically toward the finish line, but eventually you do achieve your goal.

Along that vein, yesterday I noticed a box turtle making his way across the pavement near my pool. Slow and steady.  He kept poking his head up and out, looking toward the spot where he wanted to enter the Pacasandra patch 10 feet away.  I stood there for a long time and watched.  He eventually disappeared into the Pacasandra.  I was happy to see he made it to his destination.  His determination paid off.   He's been in my back yard for long time based on the age of his outer shell. I've picked him up and moved him many times while working in the garden.  Such a lovely creature . . .  I digress. :)

If you're working on that dream, resolution, goal, keep at it!  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Let's 'go for it' in 2006!