Goals for the New Year

Like most people, I have made several goals for the new year. Unlike most people, they’re achievable goals that are actually possible. I do believe in New Year’s resolutions, but I try to make goals for the year that will help me grow in several areas. Personally, mentally, and physically, are the key areas I focus on. Right now, I don’t have a job because of my physical health. That is something I can’t control so I don’t make a goal in that area. Same with school, because it’s on hold and I can’t control the future of that right now, I hold off on setting goals for it. 

Making Goals for My Personal Life:
In 2020, I strive to grow as a person. I’d like to put myself outside my comfort zone. I would like to try dating again (something I haven’t done since I got sick) and I would like to meet more friends. How I am going to go about doing this? I have no idea. The plan itself is still growing and because of the surgeries I need, it likely won’t be set in motion until I’m back on my feet. I’d also like to start writing more. I’d love to write a book or a play. It’s something that I’ve dreamed about for a long time. Because of my surgeries, I will have the down time to do it. 

Making Goals for my Mental Health:
I’m proud of the strides I’ve made in 2019 regarding my mental health. I started aggressively treating my OCD and made great progress in treatment. I’d like to continue moving forward with that. I’d also like to become more vulnerable and ask for help more often. This is where I often fall short and tend to get overwhelmed. I’d like to write down what I’m grateful for morning and night, 365 days this year. Also, I’d like to keep up with my meditation schedule. There will be days where this may not be possible, but it is what I’m going to strive for. 

Making Goals for my Physical Health:
This is a more difficult area to set goals for. I can not control how well my body is going to function. That said, I’d like to run a half marathon or at least a 5K. My hip surgery is being put off a little bit, I don’t know if this is achievable in recovery time. My physical therapist and I are going to work towards that goal. I’d also like to continue to fuel my body with healthy and delicious foods. I want to treat my body with respect and listen to it better in 2020. I’ve pushed through a lot and it’s ended at my own expense. I will strive to take better care of my body. 

I’m telling you my goals because I want to be accountable. For most of my life, I have withheld my goals from people because I’ve been scared of failing. Sharing them with you is my way of being vulnerable. I’m asking you to help me in my efforts to grow. I love setting goals, but I understand it can be intimidating. My advice, make achievable goals that are realistic. Don’t be afraid to change your goals if you can’t get to where you wanted. Strive to be better, not perfect. This is what I struggle with most often. Push yourself and work hard. We can all achieve so much more than we give ourselves credit for. Praise yourself for the work you put in, don’t wait for someone else to give you gratification. Make your goals for you. This year is going to be amazing. I have no doubt in my mind that it will be my best year yet. If you continue to better yourself and grow, it will be your best year yet too. Life can always get better. We can always be happier, more grateful and more positive but it starts with you.