Defining 2011

2010 was an interesting year for me both personally and professionally. Those who know me know why (probably more than they need to) but the thing I am most proud of is actually accomplishing my New Year's Resolution. This day last year, I decided that I would do the impossible. I would run a 5K. Now for most people, that may not seem to be much but for a lifelong asthmatic and non-runner, that was a tall order. Thanks to my good friend and coach, Jackie Allred, I ran my first 5K in May 2010 and completed my second in September 2010.

As I talked with friends and family today, everyone wanted to know what my resolution was going to be this year. I did not have a response for anyone. Now that my house has gone to bed, I sit here wondering what 2011 will bring. How do I want to define 2011? I am a HUGE fan of Gretchen Rubin's book, The Happiness Project. Recently on her blog, she wrote a post about choosing a one word theme for the new year. I have been thinking about that for the past couple of weeks. Here are some of the thoughts I tossed around:

• COMMUNICATE: do a better job keeping in touch with friends and family, develop a better method of follow through at work, email/text on my cell less, talk on my cell more, etc.
• BREATHE: enjoy the little moments more, take time for me/my son/my husband/my family, get angry less, be more patient
• GIVE: find ways to give to others in less obvious ways, be more present, be less self-absorbed, be a better mom/wife/boss/friend/co-worker

But after debating this, I find that there is not one single path I need to be on. So in the spirit of Gretchen Rubin, I am going to develop my own personal commandments (Gretchen's are here):

1. Be present.
2. Laugh often.
3. Forgive yourself daily.
4. Take deep breaths.
5. Dream big.
6. If it won't go, let it go.
7. Follow through.
8. Keep focused.
9. Don't wait.
10. Give all you have all the time.
11. Show you care.
12. Write it down.
    

These may not make sense to others but I am hoping they will help me have a great year. Do you have a list of rules or ideals that keep you focused? Would love to hear your ideas!