So somewhere near the start of 2011 I blogged a set of slightly comical predictions of what I’d achieve in the year ahead. Most of them did not happen. Some of them were unachievable, all were ill thought out and I can’t even find the post so probably deleted it in embarressment. With that said though the year turned out to be one of the best yet for me and my family. Things I’m happiest about have to include my wife Chloe getting her place at University and starting her course, moving house (& town), Robyn starting her new School and me falling in love with Running, getting fit, losing 5+ stone, gaining self respect and waving goodbye to sleep apnea.
I’m in danger of sounding like a completely irritating running avangelist but the one (almost accidental) descision to try running has had a huge impact on my year. My health, attitude and perspective on life has totally shifted and I think for the better. It’s also rubbed off on others around me which is cool. I only wish I’d done it earlier. We all know exercise is good for us (It’s not like they kept it secret or anything). It still amazes me why myself and millions of others haven’t MADE time for it in our lives long before now. We waste so much time on other completely pointless tasks that could be better spent! I will try to climb down off my horse and not mention it again but if you are someone who doesn’t exercise…give it some serious thought, break the cycle, good things will happen.
My goals for 2012 are going to be simple and some of which are just a continuaton of changes I’ve already made. I’m pretty sure from what I’ve learnt this year that if I can keep these in check the rest will take care of itself. In no particular order.
Family and friends – Are the best thing in the world. I will not take them for granted. I will go out of my way to spend more time with all of them. I’m lucky to have them. Every friendship I have (either in person or online) makes life more interesting and vibrant. I’d like to have more.
Running and fitness – Just keep running and enjoy it. I’m not the fastest and I’m not the best but if I can run as often as time allows and do it with a smile on my face then speed, distance, performace, diet etc will all fall into place. Half Marathon in March. Possibly a Marathon in 2012? Open minded…see where my feet take me.
Work – The thing I love to hate. My job covers the bills, supports my family and is flexible enough for me to support my wife and child both financially and in terms of time. That in itself is more than worth the burden of not being able to pursue a slightly more rewarding or creative career. Carry on giving 100% no more, no less and make the most of the time and money it gives me to do other stuff.
The Other Stuff – Photography, Blogging, Music, Tech, Social Media and other creative stuff should remain an important part of my life as they all make me smile. I should keep my passion in check though. These are hobbies and I’ve learnt to my cost before when I make them more than this they quickly lose their lustre and take me away from the more important things in life. One thing I did get right this year was addressing that balance. I just need to not let that slide.
and… – Be positive. Be proactive. Be Happy.
I’m looking forward to 2012. It hopefully won’t hold as much large scale change as 2011 but hopefully just more opportunities to benefit from the foundations we’ve laid. What about you guys? How do you rate your 2011 and whats your 2012 plan?
….oh and Happy New Year!
