Is a New Year really new?

            I have found that I do some of my best thinking on the elliptical machine at the gym. Now I know I may be jinxing myself, with one whole month still to go in 2011, but while working out today I was thinking about what a great year this has been for me. For the first time in several years, I’ve made it all the way through (almost) without any major crisis or life altering event. At this time last year, I breathed a huge sigh of relief at the idea of a new year. I remember thinking “Whew, I had a rough year…well rough three years, I guess…Well, rough seven years…” and then I got to thinking that this is just life. We get married, divorced, move, lose jobs, get new ones, meet new people who are good for us and not so good….All of that stuff I’ve experienced in the past several years just adds to who I am and how I will handle the next issue.

            My only New Years Resolution for 2011 was to be less reactive, or “more zen” as I like to say. Looking back on the year, I can see my efforts made a difference but it’s still a work in progress. I try to think before I react but unfortunately there are still times where my emotions get the best of me. Looking forward to 2012, I’d like to work on that even more so I’m trying to decide what I’d like my New Years resolutions to be. So far, I have a couple thoughts: meditate regularly and eat a healthier diet but the big one is that I know there are people who come into my life who drive me nuts that I need to have more patience with. I believe that everyone comes into our life for a reason so I want to take time to figure out what I am supposed to be learning from these folks or sharing with them.

            I know I could make a simpler resolution or even none at all but I’ve made at least one every year for as long as I can remember. I like having something to strive for and hold myself accountable to. Plus I like to think I’m bettering myself as a person and now it’ll give me something to blog about!