Resolutions

I like the idea of New Years resolutions. Lately I've been hearing a lot of whining about them, and I can see how they might not be for everyone, but it wouldn't hurt to step back, take a look at where you are in your life, compare that to where you'd like to be, and then make some plans (either in the form of definite measurable objectives or vague dream-ful goals) in order to adjust accordingly.  If you feel that resolutions are not for you, and that they are just pointless goals that end up making you feel worthless or like a failure, try making resolutions that you know you can accomplish, and that are more of pointers to remember for the new year...just an idea...not trying to coerce you into making resolutions. I personally know that there are some things I'd like to work on.  I know that by remembering these few resolutions, I might alleviate some stress in my life, thus becoming a little happier. (Because we all know I'm a stressful, unhappy mess, ha ha). So here they are, in no particular order, the things I'd like to adjust for 2011:

1. Watch what I eat. Cliche, yes, but so true.  I've noticed I am somewhat of an emotional eater...and I just really enjoy food. If I'm sad, I'll have some ice cream. If I'm lonely, I'll have some chocolate. If I'm happy, I'll bake some cookies. If I did well on an exam, I'll have a beer. If I am relaxed, I'll have some wine. So maybe that's an exaggeration, but you get the point. The emotional eating has got to stop. I cannot imagine what my body goes through when I eat like that.  I'm not going to deprive myself-because that's not what I do, but I will try to find a jar and contain myself.

2. Be less intimidated. I don't know what had me so intimidated last semester, but something sure did. I was afraid to be myself.  I still haven't figured this one out, and I've mentioned it in previous blogs, but I will continue to work on it. I want my classmates and professors at UM to know the true Emily Williams, and I don't think she's fully arrived, yet (although, maybe a little bit toward the end of last semester).

3. Trade some mochas and lattes for good old black coffee.  This is primarily to help my wallet. I drink black coffee at home and at Casey's and it tastes just fine...good, even. But when I'm on campus or driving by my favorite coffee shop/cafe I often find myself ordering a delicious white chocolate mocha or vanilla latte for sometimes a whopping 4 bucks!! That's like 30 bucks a week...120 bucks a month...too many bucks a year.  I could afford a trip to Hawaii with all the money I'd save! Yes, it has become a bit of a nasty habit, and do enjoy them ever so greatly, but I will try to cut back a smidge.

4. Read for pleasure.  This doesn't need adjusting...I do this just fine. But I wanted to add it, because it is one of my favorite things ever.

5. Spend more time with friends and family. This includes keeping in touch with friends from WSU/high school. I was AWFULLLL at this last semester. I feel so guilty and sad that I've lost contact with some of those girls (and boys) I was so close with...and I have nobody to blame but myself.  And I need to make a better effort to hang out with friends in Missoula who I enjoy spending time with (that means you, Caitlin). These friendships-whether near or far-are what will keep my ticking when the going gets tough, they will be there with me to celebrate exciting things, and they are great for when I just need to listen, or just need to vent a little.

6. Remember to see the good in others and be thankful for who they are. Some of my closest friends and family bear the worst of my "anal-ness" and for that I am deeply sorry. In 2011, with great effort, I am going to ease up a little bit. Everyone brings so many great stories, experiences, values, skills, and qualities to the table...that why in the world would I focus on what they DON'T bring?? I practiced this "strength-based" approach at BHF, and learned to love everyone around me a little deeper by looking at their strengths...but I noticed these past few months that that practice has faded.  I'm going to work hard to get that practice back into a habit of mine. 

I think that should be enough to keep me going :) 2011 is sure to be a whirlwind, just like 2010.  There will be countless more memories, laughs, friendships, tears, and stories.  I have a great year to look forward to-2 semesters at UM, a summer (hopefully in Clarkston), a trip to Norway with the family, trip to Vegas with friends (??) and many, many little things that mean the world.