sesame-glazed meatballs

I came across a list of last year’s resolutions the other day while going through an old box. It was crumpled and creased and at the very bottom of a mound of cards and letters and recipes. And last year’s resolutions ended up in much the same way. Neglected and forgotten at the bottom of a very large pile. A pile of to do's and commitments and pledges. 

The truth is, I'm glad to see 2014 go. It has been long and lingering and although I am grateful for incredible family and friends and opportunities, the biggest draw back for me this year was not checking in with myself enough. Not reviewing that list of resolutions periodically to keep me in check. It’s so easy to lose site of what we need because there are so many distractions that tug away at our spirit leaving us feeling overwhelmed and depleted. So many daily commitments that impact our energy and focus and drive. For someone like me, who postpones and dawdles and constantly defers, I know that I need to review this list every single day.

Am I taking the time to pray every day? Dedicating time to my spiritual health is crucial for me. When I feel that connection slipping, that feeling of loss seeps into every area of my life.

Am I sleeping enough? Am I staying up late to finish proposals and projects I have taken on and waking up feeling hurried and irritable? How does that affect other members of my household?

Am I eating foods that nourish my body and give me the energy I need to be productive? Am I taking the time to exercise so that I am strong and capable?

Am I over-committing? Taking on more than I can handle so that I don’t disappoint others? I tend to get stuck in a cycle of obligations that always seem like a good idea upon introduction but often find myself shuffling and rushing and feeling a bit out of sorts.

Am I dedicating enough time to the people I love? Is there time at the end of a busy day to listen to my children read? To hearing about their day without rushing them off to piano or soccer? To having a meaningful conversation with my husband? Am I nurturing the relationships that are important to me? My mother and siblings and closest friends?

And more importantly, if things aren’t in alignment, am I making the necessary changes to keep myself focused? If the answer is no, then I need to re-evaluate and make modifications quickly.

When I am feeling rested and content and energized, when I am eating well and taking care of my body through proper nutrition and exercise. When I am reviewing my professional objectives and making plans to execute and make them viable. When I devote uninterrupted time to those I love. When I say no to projects that need to be squeezed into my already busy life, I am saying yes to a much greater cause.

I am saying yes to me.

So for 2015, I only have one resolution. Check in with myself. Make sure I am on task and meeting the goals and objectives I need to be strong and healthy and happy on every front. Spiritually, physically, emotionally, professionally.

And my wish for all of you is the very same. Take time to think about what you need to help you lead a more fulfilled life and then write those things down. And review them. Review them every week or  every day. As often as you need that gentle reminder to keep going and stay on track. That little list is going to be a permanent fixture on my bedside table this year. A list I am going to read every single morning before starting my day. 

All the best to all of you dear friends. May 2015 be your best year yet.

xoxo