Marie’s New Year Resolutions

The thing about New Year is that it marks a new beginning. Well, duh. It’s the start of the year. 

(http://www.chatterblock.com/blog/sf-bay-area/files/2013/06/July-4th-Fireworks-in-San-Jose.jpg)

And there is whole year ahead of you. Somehow, I think it is overwhelming – the feeling of I-can’t-believe-this-year’s-already-over. And of course, since this is one hell of a chance to start something new, people make goals, or as it is more popularly put, New Year’s Resolutions.

Ah, New Year’s Resolutions (I’ll be referring to it as NYRs from now on). Now this is something to think about. Of course, I am assuming (and I pray that all people are too) that these NYRs are for the improvement, development of oneself. And sadly (let’s be honest, people), these are seldom, if not, achieved (I hope I’m doing my logic correctly). And this is the reason why I do not do NYRs.

Why, you ask? Well, aside from the reasoning above, well... let’s just say I don’t want to let myself down. I mean, I’m making all these goals and in the end, I keep straying away from them or something. In my life I learned to understand that I am not a patient, nor a determined person (well, this depends on the nature of the activity I’m pertaining to. 

For example, if it is something that I need to do, like academics or work, of course I must do it. But if I must change something I’m used to, like habits, well... that’s where the conflict of patience and determination shows). Habits are hard to break. As a song put it, “...hard habit to break.” But when do you really need to do something about it? When do you need to break “it”?

If it is not good (in any way) for you.

If “it” (I’m referring to this as anything under the sun: person or people, places, activities, etc. I know you’re getting the point)is affecting you negatively, stay away from it. Really. Smoking, definitely a no-no (have you ever thought of lung cancer? If the smoking is worth it, well puff away my friend. Just please, don’t let other people inhale your second hand smoke. Seriously. Some of us want to die peacefully.)

Put whatever is good for you first. Okay, it sounds a bit selfish but truly, you can’t give someone else something without giving yourself first without any regrets or doubts. Focus first on your Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs, and then you may focus on other’s Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs. However, make it a must not to overstep other’s needs. Respect is a virtue.

If it is not making you grow.

You are a wonderful person with so much potential. I have not met you (and let’s be realistic, I might never will) but I’m sure you’re unique – and that is something to be proud of and to cultivate. Maybe now, you’re dealing with something hard, going through something difficult... and that’s life. I never liked hardships and pain but it reminds me I’m alive, and kicking. But if something is inhibiting all that I (or you) can be, I say adios to it. Surround yourself with fairy god mothers and teachers – for the support and push you need to be what you ought to be.

If it’s not making you happy.

Sometimes, people tend not to let go of things even if holding on to it is not such a great idea (somehow, you can’t help but relate this to love lives, yes?) Nah. No need to explain this. Simple as it should be.

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You know, whatever reason there might be, you’re still the one who will make the decision. 

Whatever it is, whether you stop, continue, improve or whatnot, I really hope you’ll choose (or be able to choose) what you really want. Nobody should have room for regrets. ;)

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So far, these are my NYRs:

1.    Be nicer. I’m nice, but a little bit of more sugar won’t hurt anybody. And besides, they might get infected with my niceness. Or kill them with niceness. I think it would be less bloody.

2.    Ask questions out loud. I have a thousand questions in my head but I seldom speak them out. Why? Can’t blame me there. People tend to be so judgemental whenever you ask questions.

3.    Control thy temper.

4.    Smile more often.

5.    Compliment people sincerely.

6.    Stop (as much as possible) sarcasm.

7.    Take time to appreciate now.

8.    Get out more... as in physically. Discover more places.

9.    Avoid avoiding the sun (when the sunlight’s still okay).

1.  Start saving and investing as early as today.

1.  Be a bit more giving.

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So, what are your NYRs? :)

Love,