Focusing on the Year Ahead
Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 10:54AM 
I cannot believe that I have not posted since November. I cannot believe that I have neglected the thing I love the most...writing and photography. It seems sometimes, often really, the things I love the most get put to the bottom of my to do pile. Not this year.
I have chosen my word for 2013 and it is Focus. I didn't even have to struggle to find it.. I know that in order for me to find my joy, I really need to pay attention to what is important, and make it happen.
During December I ran into some medical problems...which I am still dealing with, but I am moving forward slowly. Whatever happens in my life, both positive and negative, I know, at the end, there is a lesson learned. What I learned through this process, which was happening right in the middle of Christmas, was that I don't have to do it all and what I do doesn't always have to be perfect. What I percieve as the best isn't always what other's perceive. I didn't get all the shopping done, didn't get all the food cooked and I wasn't the life of the party but my kids said it was one of the best Christmases ever...the gift was that we were all together.
That started me thinking about the rest of my life and all I try to do in a day, a week, a month and the year. It also showed me that the things I love most were not always a priorty. I take on to much. I had lots of time to think and slow down.
So for this year..I am going to Focus on what I love...keeping even those things simple. Finishing my blog..top priorty but I'll ease back into it. Photography...I do o.k. with that one but would like to get out more during the week. Ah, my one really big love...READING, making time for that this year. Keeping track also. I'll start a reading page right here on my blog. Tea, knitting they have their space also but with a much more relaxed attitude from me.
How to accomplish this...somethings have to go. First on the list..Facebook. Oh I'm not giving it up but I will only check it at the beginning of the day and at the end. Flickr...less frequently, more blog time. I'm learning how to say NO in an easier manner. Shutting down my computer by 9 p.m. That will be a challenge but that is where I'll get my reading time. I can't do everything. That's a start. We'll see how I do with all of this.
I'm starting a Happiness Journal and I'm checking in on myself. Each day, I'll write what I want to accomplish. Short list of things that make me happy...each night I'll check back in to see if I got a few of those happy moments into my day..so far so good. Meeting with a friend for tea or lunch. Oh and today a little trip downtown to a cute boutique that's having a sale...things like that will go on my list.
I do have some things that are always on my Happiness List and will continue to stay..Family time, I am truly blessed in my family. My "Boys"..I love those babies and they heal all ills and make me laugh like crazy. My lessons with Kim Klassen...she's good for my soul and learning is good for my spirit. Going to the woods and feeling the silence and the wonders of this world...all of these stay...the rest, well check in later. If I do it right...this blog will be amazing and so will my life..actually it's pretty amazing already.
Focus...it's the perfect word for me for this year..do you have a word to help you through...
The photo above is from a lesson in Beyond Layers..done by Kim Klassen: Editing and quote are mine..thanks so much Kim for always inspiring me.
Reader Comments (6)
Just coming from Flickr. :)
Focus... what a lovely word for the year. Best of luck in shutting down your computer and having time to read and do all the things you treasure more. A Happiness Journal is such a lovely idea, Cheryl. When I started blogging in 2004, I used to post almost every day "What made me smile today". I should do it again. It was a lovely way to remember that happiness can be found in the smallest things. :)
Enjoy your evening.
Kia (and Zeno)
Kia thank so much for stopping by..I'm delighted to see you here...ah my goals are challenging for the coming year but I will work hard for what I love...and Oh My...I love your idea of "what made me smile today"...you should do that again...
I was still "snooping around" your blog when I noticed your reply. :) I am sure you will be able to do anything it's dear to your heart.
Wishing your a lovely and healthy 2013.
Cheryl, as I read this I kept thinking: you need to do this yourself, Virginia! I get so busy with life's little (and big) chores that the FOCUS gets away from me. I'm going to add in the word "PRIORITIZE" and sit down and review my previous lists of how I want to spend my time each day. Thanks for the reminder, the inspiration, and the motivation. And keep us all posted on those pesky tests and results!
Best,
Virginia
Oh yes...I relate to so much here. I feel, as women, we take on too much. And the holidays...ugh...that's just a hot mess of emotions right there. I too am letting go of a lot. You have read my posts...you get it. I love the happiness journal idea. And I love your word. Focusing on what is important. Amen to that! And thanks for dropping in on my blog tonight! xo
I didn't chose focus but it was a close second to "discover". I want to focus more too, on photography especially, and stretch myself more. And I hear you on that Facebook stuff. I want to spend more time on creating and posting on my blogs and less just getting distracted. I'll cheer you on...