New Year’s Goals for 2015

Happy New Year everyone!  While January is often a kick start for people to make resolutions, we do things a little differently in my house and set goals instead of making resolutions.  For me,  the difference is that the goals tend to align with larger values that I have – for example, valuing my health, creativity, and family life – and rather than saying I need to change things about myself, these are projects and accomplishments I want to add for the new year.  In the past I used to set goals with lots of measurables – for example: write 100 pages of your book by May 15th – but I’ve found that taking a bigger picture approach helps me set up lifestyle changes and allows for flexibility in my circumstances.  This year I’m taking this kinder approach and I’m very excited for what’s to come.

Here’s what’s on my 2015 Goals List:

1. Get dressed more.  It’s ok to wear workout gear to your daughter’s school drop off, but by pick up time, aim to be showered and wearing real people clothes.
2. Do my very own photo project.  I know I do a ton of shoots here on the blog, but I have a special project in mind that combines travel and fashion.  It’s new territory for me and I’m excited.
3. Along those lines, travel more.  Places already on the docket to visit: Portland, Santa Barbara, Orange County, Maui.  Places I’m dreaming about: Arches National Park, Scotland, Italy.
4. Organize and train for my own half marathon on Whidbey Island.  Basically one of the prettiest local(ish) places to run.
5. Really, truly reduce my sugar, dairy, and wheat consumption.  I received a ton of wonderful cookbooks for the holidays, so when I want to bake, I need to try recipes that fall in line with my eating goals.  This might mean Paleo one day.  It might mean gluten free the next.  Whatever it is, go for it.
6. Finally show up for one of those knitting club meetings.  Because it will be good for me, plus I will actually finish the projects I start.
7. Dream about the big picture, and lay the foundation for success.  Go out and do the things you need to do.  This might mean watching less tv.  It’s ok, everyone will understand.

What do you think?  Do you make resolutions or set goals?  Anything exciting on your list for 2015?