I RESOLVE TO . . .

I Resolve To™ . . . Stay Inspired, Spring Is On The Way! - Day 59

In just three weeks, we'll enjoy the official start of Spring on March 21st - so hang in there!  Relief from the winter 'blahs' is on the way.  In the meantime, I share some encouraging words to help you through the middle part of the week . . .

"Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen."  Ralph Waldo Emerson

The difference between the imossible and the possible lies in a man's determination."  Tommy Lasorda - American Baseball Player and Coach - born 1927

"Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be."  George Sheehan - American physician, author and running enthusiast (1918-1993)

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!  Turn your resolution into reality.  Do it today.  Go for it!

Kim M. Simpson - February 28, 2007
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"Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be."  George Sheehan - American physician, author and running enthusiast (1918-1993)

I Resolve To™ . . . Get Organized This Spring! - Day 58

Just 22 Days until Spring!  Soon we'll be able to throw open the windows, clear the cobwebs out of our houses and heads, and move forward into a more energetic, positive time of the year.  If you've been feeling a little cooped up, have a dose of winter doldrums, and are really, really ready for a change, why not make a point to start early?  Get a jump on Spring.  Take advantage of the inspiration it brings by starting your Spring cleaning early.  Get organized now, so you can spend your time outside enjoying the good weather when it arrives in March and April.

I find that giving my house an intense top-to-bottom-cleaning - what I like to call a 'Major House Clean' - three or four times a year always makes me feel great.  What's not to love about a clean house?  It forces you to clear the piles of clutter, get rid of the dust, and get your 'stuff' organized. 

You're probably asking 'what does this have to do with making and keeping New Year resolutions'?  Personally, I make it a point to do a 'Major House Clean' for the New Year, right befor January 1, in the Spring, Summer and Fall.  I find that it's a really positive way to move on to that next chapter in your life.  Each season brings another opportunity to begin anew.  While January 1 and Spring are probably the most celebrated times to begin a anew - you can do it anytime of the year, just as you can make and keep a resolution any time of the year. 

In addition to making you feel better about yourself, and your life - getting your 'stuff' organized' can help you to better organize yourself for your next steps with your resolution, dream goal.  After you get your house organized, set aside a few hours of quiet time to review what you've achieved with your resolution in the first two months of 2007.  Think about what you want and need to do next - all the many small daily steps that you need to take during the next 10 months to achieve your resolution, your dream - and make it permanently part of your life, a Lifetime Resolution.  So use this time to 'get moving and get motivated'!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!  Turn your resolution into reality.  Do it today.  Go for it!

Kim M. Simpson - February 27, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Blog For Success! - Day 57

Blogging is a great way to make and keep a New Year resolution, fulfill and dream, or achieve a goal.  In 2005, I started my ACreativeLife.com blog to track my progress with my New Year resolution, to write more, show off my photographs, and keep up with friends . . . it worked, I did all of that and more. It was my first attempt to create a blog, and like most things, I pursued it with a passion.  As most bloggers soon discover, it can be very time-consuming, but I firmly believe the rewards make the time and effort worth it.

So how, you are asking, does a Blog help you to achieve your New Year resolution?  Let me list some of the ways it can help you turn your resolution into reality in 2007:

1. Blogging is like keeping a personal journal - with one major exception, you put your entries out there for the world to see.  When you 'show up' each day, and record those posts, you're taking two huge steps that can help you to keep your resolution.  One, you're writing things down, thus making it easier to track your progress, set timelines/deadlines, assess when you need to make course corrections and determine when to 'reward' yourself.  Two, once you tell the world that you're going to exercise for 30-minutes each day, or whatever your resolution - you know you'll need to make good on that promise, or you won't have anything to write about.  Blogging is a great way to stay accountable.
2. Blogging can help you to meet like-minded souls who can share the journey with you.  You can brainstorm together, commiserate, cheer each other on, share what works-what doesn't work, and help to keep one another to stay on track.  If you don't want to start you own blog, there are millions of individual blogs - and entire communities - on virtually every topic under the sun, so you're sure to find a blog or community that fits you and your resolution.
3. Blogging is a great way to express yourself, to celebrate your wins, let off steam when you're frustrated, work toward solutions, and achieve those 'A-Ha' moments when things suddenly become clear.  Writing things down helps you to think things through.  Taking that one step further, when you're part of a blogging community, you can often get advice from folks who share your resolution, dream, goal - and are celebrating similar successes, and learning their lesson right along with you.  Some of those folks are also 'experts' who might consider serving as an online mentor, if you ask!
4. Blogging is fun, plain and simple. If you like to write, think, communicate, achieve - it's a wonderful passtime, and a great way to ensure that you take those small daily steps toward achieveing your resolution.  Often, just showing up - whether on your blog, or while logging time working on your resolution - is half the battle.  Sometimes when you're totally sapped mentally and physically, working on your resolution/dream can reinvigorate you, lending energy and inspiration to your life, no matter how busy and stressed you are on a given day.

So give it some thought, give it a try.  What do you have to lose?  Give it a try! There are millions of people who are blogging each and every day - you don't need to be an expert, or spend hours and hours blogging - you just need to take that initial step, one post.  Comment on progress someone else is making, ask a question, tell your story. 

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!  Turn your resolution into reality.  Do it today.  Go for it!

Kim M. Simpson - February 26, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Make Every Day New Year's Day! - Day 56

Alas, the Chinese New Year is coming to an end.  Fifteen days after it started on February 18, it ends now with the full moon and the Lantern Festival.  Not to worry, if you missed the New Year on Jauary 1, and the start of the Chinese New Year on February 18 - and you still haven't decided what resolution to make, dream to pursue or goal to keep.  You still have time.

You can make and keep a New Year resolution or pursue a dream any day of the year.  In fact if you're really true to your dream - you'll make each and every day New Year's Day.  That way, you'll pursue your dream one small step, each and every day - and you'll make it a Lifetime Dream, a Lifetime Resolution.

Still not ready?  Still need more inspiration.  Spring Equinox is March 21s this year - just 23 days away.  The days are already getting longer and the temperatures will soon warm, so incentive is just around the corner.  Better yet, Day Light Savings Time starts early this year, on March 11 - so the days are going to get longer, very soon!

Hang in there.  If you have a cherished dream, don't way to pursue it 'Someday'!  Make today and everyday New Year's Day.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!  Turn your resolution into reality.  Do it today.  Go for it!

Kim M. Simpson - February 25, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Find A Mentor! - Day 55

Yes, you have a resolution, dream, goal that may, at times seem daunting but you don't have to go it alone!  You can find a buddy to share the journey, take a class to expand your knowledge and make some new friends - and yes, you can find a mentor to advise and encourage you as make the journey!   In recent days I'ved talked about buddies and classes - today I want to encourage you to find a mentor who can inspire you as you take each small step toward achieving your dream!

If we're fortunate, each one of us is given the gift of a teacher who nurtures us while we're young, a college professor who recognizes our gifts and prods us to do better, a boss who is tough but encouraging. If we're lucky we run into those 'trusted advisors' along life's journey who pay attention, share their knowledge and urge us to keep going when the going gets tough.  I've been fortunate, I've had family members, teachers, college professors, bosses, and colleagues who have encouraged and inspired me throughout my life.  They offered friendship, guidance, wisdom, and support.  I gladly accepted and I'm a better person for their attention and effort.  I thank them each and every day for their kind attention.

So how to find a mentor?  It's usually someone you already know - all you have to do is look and ask.  Whether you're enrolled in college courses, taking a cooking glass at a local community college, learning golf, getting in shape at the gym - whatever your interest, passion, dream, there is someone out there with credential, skills and knowldedge who would be happy to offer advice, guidance, encouragement - if you have the courage to ask, and the gumption to work hard, and prove that their attention is worthy. 

Sounds like a pretty 'high bar to leap over'?  Maybe not.  Most mentors, like most folks who care about you, want you to be challenged and to challenge yourself - but they also want you to be realistic about the way you pursue your goals (your plans, timelines, and so on).  They've been there before - made the mistakes, climbed the ladder - and they have a lot to share if you're willing to listen and learn.  Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to 'listen to someone tell you something you don't necessarily want to hear' - but listening and taking the advice to heart is the best course of action.  Sometimes you feel like you 'know more' or 'know better' - regardless, open your mind, listen and learn, you'll profit more than you know. 

Pursue your dream with passion, patience and persistence, but don't try to go it alone.  Your joureny will be easier, more rewarding and enjoyable if you do your homework, find like-minded souls who share your passiona, and are willing to ask for help when you really need it.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 24, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . TGIF Thoughts! - Day 54

Hope you're having a wonderful week.  Here's to having a fabulous weekend.  I hope as near the end of the second month of 2007 you're still working toward your resolution, your cherished dream!  I give you these thoughts of support for the weekend.

"What people say you cannot do, you try and find you can."  Henry David Thoreau

"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used evertyhing you gave me"."  Erma Bombeck

"May you live every day of your life."  Jonathan Swift

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see."  John Burroughs

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 23, 2007
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"What people say you cannot do, you try and find you can."  Henry David Thoreau

"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used evertyhing you gave me"."  Erma Bombeck

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see."  John Burroughs

I Resolve To™ . . . Take A Class! - Day 53

Looking for motivation?  Trying to find a way to stick with your resolution each and every day?  One way to insure that you'll take small daily steps toward achieving your resolution, dream, goal is to take a class, or a series of classes.  A class about the dream of your choice will help you to expand your creative and intellectual horizons, learn something new, introduce you to folks who share your passion, and help to provide a structure for your daily/weekly/monthly action plans.

Tonight, I pulled out a journal from 1994. I decided in 1994 to get serious about my long-held passion for photography.  Practicing photography is one of my Lifetime Resolutions, it's a Lifetime Dream.  Photography is one of my gifts.  It makes my spirit soar, keeps me energized, makes me happy.  I love picking up my cameras and heading out on a shoot whether for work, or my personal fine art interests.  It's all the same, once I have camera in hand I can go for hours and hours.  I get into the 'zone' (it's pretty blissful).  I enjoy the journey as much as the destination - pointing that camera and pushing the button, all the way to making the final image in the darkroom.  I always have, since I was a little kid with a tiny brownie camera.

My point:  back in 1994 I made a decision to get serious about my passion, my dream.  My first step was to make that decision to 'go for it'.  My second step was to define what I wanted to do, get busy with my research and develop and long and short-range plan. 

One of the first things I did was join the Smithsonian Insitution's Open Darkroom Program.  It was one of the best decisions I've ever made.  The Smithsonian is first-rate, it's instructors are fabulous (Kim Kirkpatrick has taught me more than words can convey over the years, he's the best!) and the people who participate in Saturday Open Darkoom are passionistas like me. I have made so many photography friends over the years.  I say 'friends' because of the camaraderie we share over pans of chemicals in the darkroom, and during our shooting 'fieldtrips', but also because of the time we share outside the darkroom and our photography interests. I hold a special place in my heart for these dear, dear folks.

Taking a class, finding a community of like-minded folks who share your resolution, dream, passion is one of the surest, happiest ways to make the journey toward achieving your goal - and making it a Lifetime Resolution, a Lifetime Dream.  Give it some thought, a class might be in your future!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 22, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Be Optimistic! - Day 52

It's the middle part of the week - almost the weekend - how's your resolution going?  If you're having a hard time 'finding time' to work on your resolution, dream, or goal, take heart - the weekend is almost here.  Hopefully you'll have some time to catch your breath and log some time just for you.  If you need a break from everything including your resolution, take on!  Then you can start anew on your resolution in a day or so.  In the meantime, some words of encouragement to get you through the rest of the week!

"Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months and years they spend preparing for it.  The victorious performance itself is merely the demonstration of their championship character."  T. Alan Armstrong

"We are what we repreatedly do.  Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."  Aristotle - Ancient Greek Philosopher, Scientiest & Physician (384 BC - 322 BC)

"It isn't what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy.  It is what you think about."  Dale Carnegie - American lecturer, author (1888-1955)

"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened.  Happiness never decreases by being shared." Buddha

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 21, 2007
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"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened.  Happiness never decreases by being shared." Buddha

I Resolve To™ . . . Find A Buddy To Share The Journey! - Day 51

Find a buddy to share the journey toward achieving your resolution, dream, goal!  It's much easier if you don't try to 'go it alone', and it will be more fun if you have a pal to share the good times and the rough patches.  Remember that 'best friend' you had when you were a kid - the one with whom you shared laughs on those long summer days.  You commiserated together, stuck with each other through thick and thin?  Maybe it's time to find a buddy like that who shares your passion, interest, desire, and commitment for achieving your resolution, dream or goal in 2007.

Finding a buddy isn't as hard as you would think.  You probably already know someone who shares your vision, and would be interested in pursuing your dream with you.  The trick is to look for that person and ask!  Say your resolution is to exercise for 30-minutes each day, or learn to cook healthier meals, or learn photography - there so many different kinds of dreams and resolutions!  Maybe you have a co-worker who would walk with you, or hit the gym at lunchtime or before/after work.  Maybe you have a friend who shares your interest in cooking who would enjoy whipping up a new creation a couple days each week.  Or maybe you have a buddy who takes a photography class with you - ask that person if he/she is interested in shooting with you on weekends - field trips are a lot of fun, turn it into a picnic and a shoot!

Teaming up with a buddy will help in a variety of ways:

1. You can share ideas, brainstorm, research, and learn together.
2. You can help each other to build a plan, and daily action plans that will guide you along your journey toward achieving your resolution.
3. You can keep each other accountable by scheduling time to work on your resolution, dream, or goal together - it's much harder to 'give up' or 'quit' when a buddy is relying on you.
4. You can compare notes on your progress, do daily/weekly check-ins, make course corrections and celebrate wins together (rewards are as important as the actual 'work' for continued motivation).
5. You can help each other to overcome obstacles, stay on track, and ensure that expections are realistic and doable.
6. You can share a laugh - though making and keeping a resolution is hard work, you should try to have fun and enjoy the journey.

Lots of good reasons to find a buddy to work with you on your resolution, dream or goal!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 20, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Motivate! - Day 50

Seems like winter is never going to end, making it hard to find the motivation, huh?  No worries.  Spring is just around the coner, just 30 days away on March 21.  The weather will warm and the sun will make a daily appearance, making it much easier to maintain a good, positive attitude.  Soon we'll shed our boots, heavy coats and wool sweaters - lightening the load literally and figuratively.

Whether you're hanging on to your New Year resolution by a thread, or working hard toward positive result, you'll soon get a big boost.  In the meantime, it's important to stay active and keep the momentum going.  In the evening don't hit the couch and grab the television remote.  Instead, take a walk, visit the gym, read your latest book, or visit your favorite coffee shop.  With a Latte in one hand, pull out your Daily Resolution Diary with the other, and consider your progress, brainstorm new ideas, give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done!

If you gave up on the resolution you made on January 1, but would like to re-ignite it in the Spring, that's a great plan of action.  Keep in mind you don't have to 'move mountains' - you just need to take one small step at a time, one day at a time.  If you're not quite ready to pursue your 'dream', try your hand at a small goal - consider cleaning and organizing your favorite room, the one where you spend most of your time.  In advance of the warm weather breathe a breath of fresh air into your life, it will work wonders, giving you a more positive attitude and a sense of optimism.

I do 'Spring Cleaning' for the New Year on January 1, in the Spring, Summer, and Fall - it works wonders with my attitude and performance and it always makes me feel wonderful.  It's like giving yourself the gift of a clean sheet of paper on which to write the next episode in your life.  Organizing, simplifying and cleaning are small steps that you can take in advance of pursuing your resoution, your dream.  The act of 'doing' will give you inspiration and incentive.  That said, be careful not to delay pursuing your dream for too long. Don't fall victim to the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'!

Bottom line:  get busy.  If you're 'stuck', the positive forward movement will help to get you 'un-stuck' and put you into a position in which you can consider the next steps that you will take toward pursuing your resolution, your dream.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 19, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Celebrate Chinese New Year! - Day 49

Happy Chinese New Year!  Today, February 18, 2007 to February 6, 2008 is the Year of the Fire Pig - or Boar, or it's former name Ding Hai.  This marks the first time since 1947 that the Chinese New Year has carried that designation.  Chinese New Year is celebrated on the first day of the first moon of the lunar calendar and ends 15 days later on the full moon.  The 15th day of the New Year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebated at night with lantern displays and parades with children carrying lanterns.  The Chinese New Year has traditionally been a time when farmers give thanks for their crops and pary to the Gods for a good harvest in the coming year.

Why not make the most of this wonderful opportunity?  If you have a resolution or dream that is languishing on the 'back burner' maybe it's time to move it to the front burner, give it some attention.  Keep in mind a resolution doesn't have to be something that you think you need to change about yourself - your resolution can be a long-held dream, something that you've always wanted to experience, learn, or do.  Why not 'do it today' instead of putting it off for another year.  Put an end to the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 18, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Get Back On Track - Day 48

I made an important decision this month.  I decided it's time to get back on track with my exercise program.  Last fall, I took a break from a variety of projects - including my blogs - and reduced my exercise work-outs both in number and duration.  My body, mind and soul was telling me to 'lighten the load', so I took a break to avoid burn-out.  That was back in the middle part of September.  Five months later, I'm feeling rested and ready to go.  Taking a break, as it turns out was a wise decision.

My passion, focus and commitment is strong as ever for the many things that are important to me:  my business, friends-family, health-exercise, this resolution project, and so on.  As I've mentioned time and again, I'm a serial-goal setter and have made and kept New Year resolutions for much of my life.  I don't make a resolution, fulfill it (or give up on it) and move on.  I make and 'keep my resolutions for life'.  They become part of me and my lifestyle.  Daily Exercise is just one of my Lifetime Resolutions.  Excelling at photography is another Lifetime Resolution that I made back in the early 1990's and photography is still a passion today.

My point:  just because you take a break from a resolution or dream, or perhaps you veer off course due to self-made obstacles, or the obstacles that life tends to throw at you, does not mean that you have to give up on your resolutions and dreams altogether.  Throughout tough times you have to maintain faith, hope, optimism, and a positive attitude.  If you do, when you're past the obstacles, you can move forward with your dreams and resolutions.

As I mentioned, I made a decision this month to get back on track with my resolution to exercise for at least 30-minutes each day.  Instead of going from a few work outs each week, to seven all at once - I'm gradually increasing the number, duration and intensity of my work outs.  I'm setting the bar at a reasonable height, giving myself a realistic short-term goal, so as not to get overwhelmed and discouraged.  It's working.  I'm feeling great about my work outs (both mentally and physically) and Spring is right around the corner.  I'll soon be outside everyday working in my garden, swimming, walking, playing tennis - doing all the things that I love to do!

If you need to get back on track with your own resolution be kind to yourself.  Don't set the bar too high.  Be realistic about what you can achieve and when you can achieve it.  Take small daily steps.  Stay committed.  Be patient, passionate and persistent.  In time you will be handsomely rewarded.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 17, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Inspiration For The Weekend - Day 47

That wonderful time of the week - TGIF!  Some inspiring thoughts as you work toward your resolutions, dreams and goals this weekend!

"You need chaos in your soul to give birth to a dancing star."  Nietzsche

"The most pathetic person in the world is someone who has sight but has no vision."  Hellen Keller - American Author & Educator who was blind and deaf (1880-1968)

"Find something that you're really interested in doing in your life.  Pursue it, set goals, and commit yourself to excellence.  Do the best you can."  Chris Evert - American Professional Tennis Player (born 1954, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida)

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 16, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Consider A Different Kind Of New Year Resolution - Day 46

Not interested in making the 'standard' New Year resolution - you know the one straight off the list of resolutions that most folks make and fail to keep?  It's a very popular list:  lose weight, exercise more, stop smoking, stop drinking, pay of debt, and so on.  While I applaud folks who make and keep these resolutions (they're 'good for you' after all), I know they're not everyone's 'cup of tea'.  So why not brew a cup of tea that you'll actually want to drink in 2007?

Think outside the box!  Try something different. If you're not ready to pursue that lifelong dream, start small - start with something that will give you momentum, then when you're feeling really inspired, passionate, and energetic, go for your dream.  If you find yourself in this frame of mind, instead of making a resolution that is about 'you' - consider a resolution that will help others.  In addition to making you feel great and lending someone else a needed 'helping' hand, you'll be 'paying it forward' - good 'karma'!  Consider the possibilities:

1. As old fashioned as it sounds, resolve to do something 'nice' once (or a few times) each and every day.  Smile at strangers.  Instead of speeding up when someone wants to merge into your lane on the highway, 'let them in'!  Compliment a co-worker on his/her appearance.  Listen without interrupting.  Give your kid a big hug.  Call a friend just to say 'hello'.  Pick up litter that someone else tossed. 
2. Volunteer for a cause that you believe in. Roll up your sleeves and donate your time several days each week.  The need is great in every community.  I guarantee, whatever your interest, there is an organization that needs your help.  You don't need to be an expert - most non-profit organizations are short on money, long on tasks - your assistance will be appreciated more than you know.
3. Call and/or visit an elderly relative, offer to help - maybe a trip to the store, help around the house and yard, or just drop by for a friendly chat.
4. Say 'hello' and 'thank you' when you head to the store for milk and bread.  You'll brighten someone's day.
5. Don't wait for the next holiday or birthday - call your family out of the blue just to tell them you care.

The list is endless.  In 2007, consider 'paying it forward', just a bit, it might rub off on someone else, give others inspiration and hope - and it just might become a Lifetime Resolution for you! 

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 15, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Inspiring Thoughts - Day 45

Each one of us can use a little inspiration, especially middle of the week in the dead of winter!  I offer a few of my favorite quotes to encourage you to continue your 2007 resolution journey!

"Always bear in mind your own resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing."  Abraham Lincoln

"Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, the thrill of creative effort."  Franklin D. Roosevelt

"Making the simple complicated is commonplace, making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity."  Charles Minqus - American Jazz Bassist and Composer (1922-1979)

"Sometimes you've got to let everything go - purge yourself.  If you're unhappy with anything . . . whatever is bringing you down, get rid of it.  Because you will find that when you're free, your true creativity, your true self comes out."  Tina Turner - American Singer

Happy Chinese New Year!  Another opportunity to make and keep a resolution, fulfill a dream, and achieve a goal!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 14, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Resist Being Overtaken By Events! - Day 44

Overtaken By Events!  OBE.  We've all fallen victim to that.  Stuff happens that gets in the way of everything that you've planned for a given day, week, month.  Yes this qualifies as an 'obstacle', but I'm not talking about 'obstacles of one's own making', such as poor attitude, procrastination, lack of planning, and so on.  I'm talking about things that you can't control, some days everything just goes wrong.  OBE interferes with the 'best laid plans', but don't despair, you can get back on track with a little patience, persistence, passion - and hard work.

Consider these Five Tips for overcoming OBE obstacles:

1. Take a deep breath and know 'this too shall pass' - you should not give up on your resolution because events over which you have no control are interfering with your daily progress.  Life is full of OBE - but we handle those 'events' and move on.  Once you acknowledge that fact, you can also move on with your resolution at the appropriate time (with full confidence that you 'will pursue your resolution' at a later date, not give in and give up).
2. Stay committed to your resolution, but take care of the business at hand.  In a few days or weeks you will have the time to devote to your resolution after troubles have passed.
3. Stay committed to your resolution for the long-haul.  Make it a Life Resolution that is permanently part of you and your life - if you do that OBE will never again be daunting or overwhelming.
4. Be positive and focused despite set-backs.  Even though you're annoyed and disappointed that you can't progress with your resolution along your original timeline, you will move forward if you assess your circumtances and revise your plans accordingly.  For instance, if you're taking a break from your exercise program because you're getting burned out - take a break, but make plans to re-start a revised program on a realistic date.
5. Use your 'good attitude' toward your advantage.  Yes, you can and will get back on track with your resolution.  Know and trust that fact.  Be optimistic, look forward to coming days when you will have time to passionately pursue your resolution with renewed energy.  You will have handled the state of being 'OBE' and now you can move on. Use the momentum from overcoming your obstacles to propel you forward instead of letting your obstacles pull you down.

Commitment, Focus, Passion, Patience, Perseverance will see you through those times in your life when you are 'Overtaken By Events'.  Don't let those events get the best of you.  Handle them and move on.  Move on with your resolution, your dream.  Don't give up!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 13, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . The Power Of One! - Day 43

One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year!  That's my motto for 'one good reason':  it works.  If you truly want to make and keep a New Year Resolution, fulfill a dream, or achieve a goal it's very important to focus on one thing at a time.  Too many resolutions and dreams hit the 'goal graveyard' because folks set the bar way too high, try to do too much, too fast, then get overwhelmed and discouraged because their progress is too slow.

First, they make a long list of stuff that they think they should change about their lives, thus setting themselves up for failure with unrealistic expectations about what they truly can achieve.  They don't choose a resolution, dream or goal about which they have great passion, interest and desire.

Second, they don't give that list much thought.  In other words, they don't consider 'Who, What, When, Where, Why, How.  Take my Five-Part I Resolve To Test yourself - pick one resolution and consider the possibilities. Dare To Dream . . .

1. Who am I really doing this for?  If the answer is myself, then you've passed the first test.
2. What do I want to do/achieve?  You need to define specifically in one sentence what you plan to achieve (For instance, I will work out daily for 30-minutes by walking, stretching, biking, swimming, playing tennis, lifting weights, and doing Yoga).  If you defined your resolution in one specific, measureable sentence, to which you can apply timelines and deadlines, you've passed the second test.
3. How do I want to do achieve this resolution?   You need to do your homework (research), then develop a plan for your goal - a Things To Do List (TTD) that lays out all the many long-range tasks that are necessary to achieve the goal, then break those tasks down into small daily short-range steps that can be taken one by one.  If you're ready to 'dig in' and build a plan, then you've passed the third test.
4. When/Where do I want to achieve the resoltuion?  Pencil your daily TTD's on your calendar (a wall calendar, computer calendar, daily blog, leather journal, whatever works for you!).  Are you willing work hard, schedule in 30-minutes or more to work on your dream every day, or if not everyday, then a few days each week?  Are you willing to do daily/weekly check-ins to measure progress, make course corrections, and reward yourself?  If the answer is 'yes' you've passed the fourth test.
5. Why do I want to achieve this goal?   You have to answer that important question for yourself, the 'why' am I doing this (For instance, because it makes you feel good physically and mentally, provides fulfillment, enriches your life, teaches you something, and so on; each person's resolution/dream, and their reason's 'why' are unique, and important).  If you know 'why' you want to achieve your dream you've passed the fifth test. 

Bottom line, if you have a resolution, dream, goal, multiply the power of one by 365:  one dream X 365 small daily steps.  You may achieve your dream on 301 steps, or 700 steps.  It may take you six months, or two years, but the important thing is that you 'do it', and keep your dream, resolution goal with you for life, a Lifetime Resolution. Take action.  Make a decision today to 'go for it' each and every day.  Use my Five Step Resolution Test to get you started.  Stop Procrastinating.  Stop waiting for Someday!  Do it now!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 12, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Celebate The Chinese New Year! - Day 42

Looking for a new opportunity to 'make things right' on your New Year Resolution?  That opportunity arrives one week from today, when Chinese New Year rolls around on Sunday, February 18th.  Keep in mind, you can decide to make and keep a resolution, fulfill a dream, or achieve a goal any day - today for instance!  But if you need a little inspiration and want to have some fun - why not breathe some life into that resolution during Chinese New Year?  There are sure to be a variety of ways to celebrate the Chinese New Year in your community - check out your newspaper, and other local publications; do an online search; or create your own Chinese New Year celebration!

February 18, 2007 to February 6, 2008 is the Year of the Fire Pig - or Boar, or it's former name Ding Hai.  This marks the first time since 1947 that the Chinese New Year has carried that designation.  Chinese New Year is celebrated on the first day of the first moon of the lunar calendar and ends 15 days later on the full moon.  The 15th day of the New Year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebated at night with lantern displays and parades with children carrying lanterns.  The Chinese New Year has traditionally been a time when farmers give thanks for their crops and pary to the Gods for a good harvest in the coming year. 

In China, celebrations can last 15 days - and much like Christmas, preparations for Chinese New Year can begin a month in advance when people begin buying presents, decorations, clothing, and food.  It's traditional in China for families to fully clean their homes in advance of the New Year and decorate their living rooms with vases of blossoms, platters oranges and tangerines, and a sweet tray with eight varietys of dried sweet fruit.  Chinese families also eat a vegetarian dish called Jai - which includes Lotus Seed, Gingko Nut, Black Moss Seaweed, Dried Bean Curd, Bamboo Shoots, and Fresh Bean Curd/Tofu (these ingredients may also carry superstitions with them, such as 'wishing everything would be well' with the Bamboo Shoots).

There is a wealth of information online if you're interested in reading more about the history, taboos, customs, and so on for the Chinese New Year.  Have some fun with it - use it as inspiration for your dreams and resolutions.  It's never too late to 'make a decision' to pursue a dream.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 11, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Spring Is Just Around The Corner! - Day 41

If you're feeling a litte blue and experiencing 'cabin fever' hang in there - Spring is just around the corner, 39 DAYS AWAY!!  If you think about it, that's not long at all to wait.  The days are getting longer - more daylight when you leave work.  Better yet, in 2007 Daylight Savings Time is starting earlier than it did last year, Sunday March 11 (compared with April 2 in 2006) and ending later, Sunday November 4 (compared with October 29 in 2006). Don't forget to Spring Forward, set your clocks ahead on March 11!

As far as I'm concerned, that's good news and provides great reasons to keep the faith.  Why not use these cold winter days cooped up inside the house to brainstorm, plan, research?  That way you can move forward with renewed energy during those first warm, sunny days of Spring. 

If you're feeling a little lethargic today, get busy!  The activity will improve your mood.  Even if you only move your resolution forward by taking one small step today, tomorrow and the next day - you will make progress, and enjoy the rewards that come with your achievements.  Don't waste precious time this winter.  Instead of procrastinating, pull your resolution off the back burner.  If you haven't made a New Year resolution, or if you have a dream that's languishing on your list of things you hope to achieve in this life time - pull it out, dust it off and give it some attention.  Stop waiting for Someday to roll around.  Make someday today!  Make every day New Year's Day!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 10, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Inspiration For The Weekend! - Day 40

TGIF - that wonderful time of the week!  This weekend make sure to carve out some time for yourself, your resolution, your dream.  Consider all you've accomplished and what you will accomplish in days and weeks to come.  Do a weekly 'Check-In' to chart your progress and brainstorm new ideas for your resolution roadmap.  Above all, enjoy the journey - and reward yourself for having come this far!

"My formula for living is quite simple.  I get up in the morning and I go to bed at night.  In between I occupy myself as best I can."  Cary Grant

"Look, I don't want to wax philosophic, but I will say that if you're alive you've got to flap your arms and legs, you've got to jump around a lot, for life is the very opposite of death, and therefore you must at very least think noisy and colorfully, or you're not alive."  Mel Brooks

"Health food may be good for the conscience, but Oreos taste a hell of a lot better."  Robert Redford

Kim M. Simpson - February 9, 2007
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"My formula for living is quite simple.  I get up in the morning and I go to bed at night.  In between I occupy myself as best I can."  Cary Grant

"Look, I don't want to wax philosophic, but I will say that if you're alive you've got to flap your arms and legs, you've got to jump around a lot, for life is the very opposite of death, and therefore you must at very least think noisy and colorfully, or you're not alive."  Mel Brooks

"Health food may be good for the conscience, but Oreos taste a hell of a lot better."  Robert Redford

I Resolve To™ . . . Stop Procrastinating! - Day 39

"You may delay, but time will not."  Benjamin Franklin

Yes, time marches on with or without you!  Are you procrastinating even as you read this?  Are you putting off your New Year resolution.  Delaying your dreams?  Ignoring your goals?  It's easy to procrastinate at any time of the year, but I think most folks find it especially hard to motivate in the dead of winter when they're experiencing the 'blahs'. 

A small word of advice:  stop procrastinating, it will make you feel better - it may not eliminate the doldrums, but it will help.  For instance, consider all the energy you're wasting by worrying about what you're not doing - delaying those dreams that you would truly love to prusue.  Say exercise was your 2007 New Year resolution.  You joined a healthclub, were going strong for a few weeks, and now that we're well into February, you can't motivate yourself to head to the club.  Sound familiar?  Well, you're not alone, that scenario is very common with resolutions generally, but you don't have to 'give up'.

Procrastination is your worst enemy and patience, passion, persistence are your best friends when it comes to resolutions, dreams and goals.  Can't make it to the gym everyday, so you've decided to just chuck the whole resolution?  Obstacles are going to pop up each and every day, but you have to remain committed and firmly resolved.  Try visiting the gymn, walking, stretching, or some other favorite form of exercise every other day, instead of every day.  Spring is just around the corner and your mood and attitude will improve along with the sunshine and warmer temperatures very very soon.

Bottom line, don't delay and don't give up.  Activity can help you to get through the winter blues - the simple 'act' of doing, instead of sulking and wallowing can and will make you feel better.  Take a walk, see a movie, have dinner with friends, play Monopoly with your kids, visit a museum - there are a million possibilities.  Do something that you truly enjoy right now today, then let the momentum from those good feelings propel you in the direction of your New Year resolution.  Take it one day at a time, one small step at a time.  You don't have to write your beloved novel in a day - but write something!  I could lend the same advice about a million other goals and resolutions, it applies to most.

So, get moving.  Replace the procrastiantion with passion and persistence.  Instead of feeling guilty about 'putting things off', you'll feel a sense of relief that will soon turn to feelings of achievement, reward and fulfillment.  No more regret about things large and small. 

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 8, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Act Now!

"Procrastination reaps regret.  Action reaps achievement.  Turn that spark into a flame, make your dream a reality!"

Kim M. Simpson *  Copyright I Resolve To, Inc. * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Words Of Encouragement - Day 38

How is your resolution going?  Are you sticking with it - with patience, passion and persistence?  During the long cold months of winter perseverence is a mighty important quality when you're trying to keep a resolution, fulfill a dream, or achieve a goal.  Keep in mind, if you persist for another month or so, the days will grow longer, the skies will turn bluer, the sun will make a steadier appearance each day, and the temperatures will warm.  So don't give up on your resolution!  Spring will invite a new attitude filled with optimism.  To get you through today, I offer these quotes, filled with inspiration and encouragement . . .

"Willingness opens the doors to knowledge, direction, and achievement.  Be willing to know, be willing to do, be willing to create a positive result.  Be willing, especially to follow your dream."  Peter McWilliams

"Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort."  Franklin D. Roosevelt

"Once you start replacing negative thoughts with positive ones, you'll start having positive results."  Willie Nelson

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."  Martin Luther King

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 7, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Schedule Time For My Resolution! - Day 37

Pencil in your resolution activities on your calendar each and every day!  If you don't get into that habit, your 'in-box' will take over, your resolution will hit the back burner, and eventually you'll give up on it.  A 'calendar habit' can be as fancy, or as simple as you want:   the calendar on your computer, a calendar on your wall, a leather organizer - whatever works for you.  The point is that you need to 'do it' to follow up and stay focused.

Personally I use a leather organizer, my blogs, and a wall calendar to keep track of my exercise goals (no chance I'm going to forget, huh!). On a weekly basis, I pencil in the kinds of exercise I want to do, and I use the calendar(s) to chart my actual progress.  Last fall I took a break from my exercise resolution and a number of other activities to avoid burn out.  Since September, I've been working out a few days each week, instead of each day for 30-minutes.  I really needed a break, and it paid off, as I'm refreshed and ready to 'go for it' in 2007. 

My calendar(s) are currently serving as a reminder to me that it's time to get back on track with my daily work outs.  My plan for February is to gradually schedule a little more work out time each week (as I finish work projects that have been chewing huge chunks of time), and by March 1 I'll be back on track.  February is also serving as a great month to research and plan the exercise program that I want to build into my schedule in March, April and May.  Bottom line:  Even though I'm not performing at 100% with my resolution, I am still working on it, and intend to 'improve' my record!

Keep your Resolution Calendar, your Daily Resolution Diary, and your Resolution Roadmap (your long and short range plan) handy. Your resolution is a work in progress, and can become a Lifetime Resolution if you work at it patiently, passionately and with persistence.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 6, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Make Each Day Count! - Day 36

Make each and every day count, as if each one were the last.  My intention is not to be morbid.  Just sending a little reminder to myself and to you dear readers.  Time passes so quickly that we sometimes lose track of our dreams.  We postpone them amid the roar of life's challenges.  Our days are so often dictated and ruled by the 'in box', all the many things are thrown at us - the good and bad, wanted and unwanted.  Of course we have to respond to all of our responsibilities, all the curveballs and obstacles, but it's equally important to make time for our dreams.  It's our dreams, after all that nourish and fulfill us, motivate us to move forward with strength and courage day after day.

With that in mind, don't let the 'in-box' control you.  In addition to handling all of your 'must-do' responsibilities make some time for 'you' today, and every day.  Do something nice for yourself.  Yes I will mention your New Year resolutions!  It's never too late to make a resolution.  Pull a dream off of your list of things you want to achieve in this lifetime.  Put that dream front and center in your life. 

Even if you feel like you don't have time because you have too many other responsibilities - do it anyway.  If you give in to the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome' - someday may never come, you could just 'run out of days'.  End of story.  Don't live a life of regret.  Instead live up to your potential and reap the happy, fulfilling rewards that come with it.

Whatever your dream is - big or small - it's your dream and it's important.  Make a promise to yourself today that you will pursue it with a passion, and you will make each and every day count.  Stop and smell the roses - as corny and old-fashioned as it sounds - open your ears, your eyes, your senses to all that is around you.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 5, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . The Power Of Persistence! - Day 35

Patience, Passion and Persistence!  I write about this trio of key qualities often because I firmly believe they are at the core of keeping resolutions, fulfilling dreams and achieving goals.  I recently explored passion and patience - today I want to address persistence.  What it is and why it's important.

So what is persistence?  If you made a New Year resolution to exercise and are 'sticking with it' - you are 'resolved'.  Resolve, after all, is to decide firmly to 'act' with great determination.  Persistence is part of what is driving you forward toward successfully achieving your resolution.  Persistence is that ability to keep your resolution front and center - doggedly, stubbornly, diligently, tirelessly - with devotion and desire, even when the going gets rough, and the obstacles are popping up left and right.  Persistence helps you to overcome the obstacles and move forward passionately and positively.

Why is persistence important?  If you don't persist, quite simply you will just forget about your resolution.  That's what happens to so many people in January, February and March.  They make a resolution - or 10-20 resolutions - on January 1, pursue it/them with a vengeance for a few weeks or months, then begin to lose steam and give up. 

How to cultivate persistence?  Don't put the cart before the horse - an old phrase that's so full of common sense.  First choose a resolution about which you have enormous interest and passion - a resolution that you truly want to pursue because it will enable you to learn, grow and achieve.  Choose a resolution that you will enjoy, one that will be personally rewarding.  If you choose a resolution that fits you and your lifestyle - then you've put the horse in front of the cart - and the horse will drive you toward your destination.  You will persist.

Your resolution can permanently become part of you and your life.  If you choose, it will become a Lifetime Resolution, A Lifetime Dream - not one of those resolutions that you try, discard and move on to the next one!  Make exercise, photography, travel, writing, great eating habits - whatever you passionately want to pursue - your resolution.  Make it a part of your daily, monthly, yearly routine and you will reap countless rewards and great satisfaction.

Patience, passion, persistence very important qualities for achieving resolutions!  Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream, A Lifetime Resolution!

Kim M. Simpson - February 4, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Rejoice The Day!

"Carpe diem!  Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have.  It is later than you think."  Horace - Ancient Roman Poet (65 BC - 8 BC) - From Thinkexist.com

"Carpe diem!  Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have.  It is later than you think."  Horace - Ancient Roman Poet (65 BC - 8 BC) - From Thinkexist.com

I Resolve To™ . . . The Power Of Patience! - Day 34

The Power Of Patience!  As you pursue your resolution, dream, goal, you're going to hit bumps in the road.  You'll surely encounter roadblocks and obstacles that you will have to overcome.  You probably won't enjoy quick, easy results - results will be moderate and will compound over time like interest in a savings account.  You'll have to work hard. You might have to endure hardships.  So why put yourself through all of that?  Why 'do it'?  Why pursue a dream, a resolution, a goal?

Each one of us has to answer that question individually.  But keep in mind as you ponder that question, each one of us has already achieved something.  We've accomplished things for which we are proud.  The list of achievements is as unique as the individual.  Personally, I've earned college degrees, built a business that I love, developed an exercise regimen that works for me, to name a few achievements that are important to me. 

My point is that most folks already have a track record of achievement, they just don't give themselves enough credit for those achievements, or the gifts, skills and knowledge they possess.  In turn, folks don't consider that the things they've learned from previous achievements could help them to keep their New Year resolutions.  Think about your top achievements.  How many happened overnight, without much effort?  I bet the answer is 'none' - or 'very very few'.

Why not apply the skills, knowledge, and gifts that you already possess to your 2007 resolution? Gifts such as strength, discipline, determination, organizational abilities, hope, faith, and so on . . . after all they're valuable commodities in the journey toward fulfilling a dream. 

Above all, give yourself a gift:  the 'gift' of time.  Don't expect overnight success.  Be patient.  Be kind to yourself.  Give yourself enough time to make your dream a reality.  Don't set the bar so high that you fail before you even begin.  Make sure your expectations are based on reality - your abilities and committment measured against your dream, and what it will 'take' to achieve your dream.

Great novels typically are written over months and years, not days.  Flourishing businesses grow over years, not days.  Good habits are nurtured and cultivated, again, over time.  Give yourself, your resolution, your dream time to grow and succeed one small step at a time. 

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!  Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Dream!

Kim M. Simpson - February 3, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . The Value Of Checking-In - Day 33

You made it!  If you're still working on your 2007 New Year resolution - you made it through January.  Congratulations!  Experts say 21-days is what it takes to form a new habit.  If you resolved to _____ in 2007 and are still chugging along today, on February 2, then you're in the 'habit zone'.  Good for you, keep it up!

One of the best ways to stay on track with a resolution is to write things down in a Daily Resolution Diary, develop a long-range strategy, short-range action plans, and do check-ins every day, or every few days.  If you've been doing that through the month of January, you now have a written record that can provide you with a wealth of valuable information. 

It's time to take a look at that information and assess what has been working in your strategy, so you can build on your successes in February and reward yourself for a job well done.  Your journal can also tell you what isn't working, so that you can make course corrections.  Carve out some quiet time this weekend and do a Check-In that will tell you 'how you did' in January, and 'what you need to do' in February.

For instance, if your resolution is to work out every day for 30-minutes and it's clear that your gym membership isn't the route to success because you've skipped the gym 29 out of 31 days in favor of walking, running, biking, yoga, a Total Gym, or another form of exercise 'outside the gym' then build your plan around alternative forms of exercise and get rid of the health club membership.  I'm ready to do that myself as I'm just not using my membership. I work out in other ways.  If the gym works for you, then keep it up!  Do what works best for you . . .

Your Daily Resolution Diary can also help you to plan ahead.  Variety is the spice of life.  Think through what you want to achieve in the next 30 days.  Keep it interesting, challenge yourself, but don't psych yourself out by raising the bar so high you get discuraged and overwhelmed.  Your journal can help you to find the right balance. 

Think through and chart your February plan:  small steps that you can take one at a time, one day at a time.  Keep in mind, the first day of spring is just around the corner on March 20th - just 43 days from now.  Spring will breathe added life into your resolution - no matter what it is.  So hang in there throughout the month of February and into March.  You've made it this far, why not go all the way.  Make your resolution a permanent part of your life - a Lifetime Dream.

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!

Kim M. Simpson - February 2, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Passion, You Need It To Succeed! - Day 32

Passion is a very important component of keeping resolutions, fulfilling dreams and achieving goals.  It's not enough to build a great plan that provides structure for daily resolution activities.  It's not enough to pursue just one resolution at a time, one day at a time.  It's not enough to write things down in a Daily Resolution Diary.  One resolution, a plan, a Daily Resolutuion Diary, and small steps taken daily are vitally important ingredients for success - but you need more than that to stay motivated, and make your resolution a permanent part of your life.

You must choose a resolution about which you have great interest and desire. A resolution that will enable you to grow, learn, and have fun. It's also important to choose a resolution that you will find personally rewarding.

We all know the top New Year resolutions:  exercise more, lose weight, stop smoking, stop drinking, pay off debt, get organized, simplify life, and so on.  All are wonderful resolutions that stand to improve lives.  But what if you already exercise.  Exercise is one of my Lifetime Resolutions.  I long ago made it a permanent part of my life.  This year my resolution is to help others to achieve their resolutions, dreams and goals.  I enjoy showing up here each day.  I'm learning, growing and helping others - my resolution is very personally rewarding. 

So what if you don't want to pursue one of the common resolutions in 2007?  Don't despair.  If you give it some thought, you will decide on a resolution that fits you.  The cookie-cutter, one-size fits all mentality doesn't work with achieving dreams and resolutions.  Your resolution needs to fit you and your lifestyle.  If you're worried that it's February 1, March 1, August 1 and not January 1 - it's not too late!  It's never too late! You can make and keep a resolution any day of the year.  Do it today!

So, how to Decide?  Carve out some quiet time with your journal and ask yourself these questions:

1. If I had all the time, money, skills, knowledge in the world - what would I do?  How would I spend my time?  What would be important to me?  Draw up your list of 3, 5, 20, 50 ideas then rank them 1-10, with 10 being the highest.  Are any of the top-ranked ideas things that you want to pursue day after day in 2007 - are they things that you can 'see yourself pursuing'?  Which one inspires you enough to 'do it daily' as a Lifetime Resolution?
2. What are the top 100 things you would love to do, see, achieve, experience, feel, in your lifetime - no idea, no goal, is too large or small - have some fun with your Lifetime Dream List.
3. What are the things on that dream list that would cause 'regret' if you chose not to pursue them in your lifetime.  Procrastination sends more dreams to the goal graveyard.  Don't live a life full of regret - pursue your passions.  It's much easier to motivate yourself to pursue something that is inspiring, something about which you have great interest, desire and passion - than to choose a goal that you 'think you should pursue', but know you won't becuase the commitment just isn't there.
4. Do you have regrets?  The past is the past, you can't change it.  But you can write the next chapter.  Is it within your power to 'make things right' with any of your regrets?  Give it some thought.  As long as can take one more breath, you can take one more positive action.
5. What are the things that you 'wish' you could change about yourself or your life - the things that you think about often, things that you may worry about.  Is 2007 the year that you want to 'make that change'?  Change that habit, improve yourself, your life?

These questions aren't scientific.  They aren't going to change your life overnight and produce instant results.  They can help you to zero in on the one resolution, goal or dream about which you are passionate - a dream that you can pursue with diligence and dedication in 2007. 

If you don't 'want to achieve it', if you don't have 'fire in the belly', if you're not willing to work hard, and discipline yourself - you're probably wasting your time.  You truly have to Dare To Dream, make a Decision to 'go for it', Define the 'it', Develop A Plan, and 'Do It Daily' - or if not daily, spend enough time each and every week that you can make steady progress toward achieving your resolution - your dream.

Achieving resolutions isn't complicated. You don't need a Ph.D. in strategic planning.  It's not difficult - unless you make it difficult.  You probably already possess the strength, common sense, determination, passion, patience, and persistence to succeed.  To do that you need the right resolution.  Give it some thought - don't give up on your dreams!

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!

Kim M. Simpson - February 1, 2007
Copyright © I Resolve To™ * All Rights Reserved

Interesting Newsweek Article

If you want to keep your New Year resolutions, fulfill your dreams and achieve your goals it pays to do your homework.  With that in mind I regularly review the latest news on the 'how to's' of achieving resolutions.

Newsweek Magazine published an interesting article this week:  When Best Intentions Aren't Enough - Recent Studies Shed Light On Why It Can Be So Difficult To Stick To New Year's Resolutions, by Wray Herbert.  Herbert writes the "We're Only Human . . ." blog that appears at PsychologicalScience.org.  It's an interesting article, I'm attaching it here:  NewsweekMindMatters2007.pdf.  Have a look . . .

Remember:  I Resolve To Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today!

Kim M. Simpson - February 1, 2007
Copyright © I Resolve To™ * All Rights Reserved