The Goals.

So here they are, in all their glory: my goals for the new year. I've never before set them up so rigidly, but I've come to realize that I need structure even though I don't do it naturally. Planning ahead seems to be my best option. If I know what I am supposed to do, I'll do it (for the most part); left to my own devices, well, I'm more apt to go with whatever's easiest.

Goal: Trying to live more in the moment and appreciate the simple things.
Habit: Begin meditating
Actions: January - Meditate for 10 minutes every morning
February - Meditate for 20 minutes every morning
March - Meditate for 30 minutes every morning
April - Meditate for 40 minutes every morning
May - Meditate for 50 minutes every morning
June - December -
Meditate for 60 minutes every morning
July - Attend meditation services at Jewel Heart
Habit: Keep blog of things that make me happy and content.
Actions: Write down at least 1 item in blog every night.

Goal: Eat more mindfully
Habit: Stop reading while eating
Habit: Plan meals, shop, and prep foods on Sundays for the rest of the week.
This includes hardboiling eggs, slicing veggies for snacking, and
boiling grains/pasta for salads if necessary.

Goal: Become a regular exerciser
Habit: January - February: Complete the 6 week challenge in EA Sports Active More Workouts on low intensity
February - March: Complete the 6 week challenge in EA Sports Active More Workouts on medium intensity
March - April: Complete the 6 week challenge in EA Sports Active More Workouts on High intensity
April: Begin the Couch to 5k training; continue with EA Sports Active training
October: Compete in the Big House, Big Heart 5k
Habit: Track exercise in the blog

Goal: Become more relaxed
Habit: Practice yoga every night before bed
Habit: Meditate (as outlined above)

Goal: Read more
Habit: Read at least one book a month.

Goal: Volunteer more often
Habit: Volunteer once a quarter (or more) with one of the following organizations: Food Gatherers, Growing Hope, Ann Arbor Art Center.

Goal: Become a food blogger
Habit: Write a post at least once a week over at Making Myself at Home regarding cooking/eating.

So there were are--my starting points in my year of finding joy. I'm sure they will grow/morph over the coming months.

Stay tuned for my first joy post of the year!