Resolutions... And other promises we may or may not keep

The new year hasn't yet arrived but I already have my resolutions in order.

Each year I try to make some plans that I can really stick to. Two years ago I was determined to go on a vacation and get somewhere with my work. I did it. This past year I told myself to focus on getting better as my job and putting more focus on my friends. I did that, too.

So what do I have planned for this coming year? This coming year is about being a little selfish. 2012 is going to be all about me, me, ME! Though I have to be honest, it's not as bad as it may seem. (I have a reason for making this coming year all about myself... I'll comment on that later in the post)

Goal 1: Take a vacation.

In 2011 I didn't take a vacation. Sure I got to go to a friend's cottage on the August long weekend, but that's about all I have to show for 'vacation' time. I'm not blaming anyone since last year I took a vacation and bought suits. IT ended up being an expensive year. Expensive considering what I had been used to.

This coming year I am aiming to take a vacation in January. I have applied for my passport and set the wheels into motion. The plan is to explore San Fransisco for 7-10 days. I will go alone and it will be amazing. It will be a great way to unwind, explore and to clear my head.

Goal 2: Buy a new computer.

I'm not one to shy away from new technology, but I have been putting off getting a new computer for a while. I almost caved earlier this year when there was a very noticeable decrease in speed/performance of my computer. For everyday tasks it's not so bad, but for work it's a huge pain in the arse. Thankfully I can justify this purchase as being work-related. Eventually it will become my primary computer, but for a while I will be using two. The iMac that sits on my desk, and then the macbook/laptop that will eventually replace it completely.

Also, it's getting harder to update programs on my computer. Many new updates aren't supported on my OS. It's like I am being forced to update. I bought my current computer in 2007 when I moved to Toronto. I plan to use it for years to come. But as far as work goes I need something newer/faster.

Goal 3: Keep up with my gym routine.

This one is easy because I am not starting anything new. I am eating well. I have a great gym routine. Not too much, not too little. I have been slowly losing weight (read: fat) and gaining muscle over the year. I have no set goal. I really don't. So really when it comes down to it, as far as my routine is concerned - if it ain't broke, don't fix it. (But I may start stretching a lot, or taking up yoga... we'll see.)

Goal 4: Personal Projects.

To be better at my job I need to design (and write and sketch and photograph) for myself again. This year I really let it all slide. I dove into my work (read: my job) but didn't take the time for my own personal projects. I have lots of ideas but never take the time to do any of it. And it's important to do those things. I was showing a friend some of my sketches from today. I have a few things planned out that I'm excited to try. I have a few from the last couple of years as well. But we'll see how this one project goes before I get distracted by other things.

Goal 5: Don't give up on love.

Yuck. I know. Roll your eyes and gag. I encourage that reaction. Trust me, I'm doing it myself. In 2012 I turn 30. I won't be freaking out because I achieved everything except for one thing on my "things to do by/before 30" list. I've got one for 35 and 40, too, but they are less exciting and each list depends on what gets accomplished on the list that precedes it.

I go on a lot of first dates. I'm hard to please, or rather I'm easy to please but hard to impress. I'm not sure that's a much better way to explain it. I meet a lot of nice people, but I don't often see much come of it. No chemistry. And I usually chase after the wrong types of people - i.e. emotionally unavailable people. People fresh out of relationships. People not quite out of relationships. People married to their work. And assholes. I've become the king of first dates. Lots of good stories, but not enough good times.

So that's it. I'm sure there's more, but 5 goals is pretty darn good I think! 2012 is going to be a  big year for me. My life has been changing and shifting a lot over the last two years and I've got a sneaking suspicion that things are not going to slow down.


Later all... ;)