I RESOLVE TO . . .

I Resolve To™ . . . Seize The Day! - Day 180

Carpe Diem!  You've heard the phrase from the Horace poem, roughly translated as 'seize the day'?  Today I'm taking it to heart!  Some days you just have to admit that all is right with your world, and take full advantage of it.  I feel like that today.  I hope all is right in your world this weekend too and I offer these words of inspiration and encouragement - some of my favorite quotes!

"For my part, I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream."   Vincent van Gogh

"Try and fail, but don't fail to try."  Stephen Kaqqwa

"All of us have bad luck and good luck.  The man who persists through the bad luck - who keeps going - is the man who is there when the good luck comes - and is ready to receive it."  Robert Collier

"I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free." Michelangelo

"Zen is not some kind of excitement, but concentration on our usual daily routine."  Shunryu Suzuki, Japanese Zen Priest

"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and ernestly."  Hindu Prince Guatama Siddharta, the founder of Buddhism, 563-483 B.C.

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 30, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Mix Work With Play! - Day 179

TGIF!!  Are you looking forward to the weekend as much as I am?  The balmy days of summer are now firmly upon us (rather than those dark, cold days of winter), so it's hard not to be happy and optimistic!  I hope you're planning to relax and enjoy your own quality time this weekend. I also hope you're planning to spend a litle time working toward your dreams, resolutions and goals, as life quiets down the next couple of days. 

I don't view my own dreams and resolutions as real work, but they do require time and effort - sweat equity is a necessary ingredient if you want to make a dream 'real'.  Why not 'mix work and play this weekend', have the best of both worlds.  Spend some with a favorite book, your favorite hobby, family, friends, sports - do something just for fun.  But also spend an hour two Checking-In with your dream, resolution, goal:  where are you at as we near the half-way point in the year.  Where do you want to go next?  Page through your journal, your Daily Resolution Diary.  What are your next steps during the second half of 2007?  Do you need to make some course corrections to move your dream forward?  Maybe you need to spend a little more time educating yourself your next steps? Most importantly give yourself a big pat on the back for moving your dream forward, one small step at a time, one day at a time.  Yes, you can fulfill your dream, keep your resolution, achieve your goal if you believe in yourself!!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 29, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Remember To Have A Little Fun! - Day 178

Are you enjoying the week?  It's almost the weekend - hopefully, a little relaxation, laughter and fun is waiting for you right around the corner.  Personally, this is one of the busiest months of the year.  Some days I'm working so hard I forget to head outdoors for a walk, or to take breaks, or to 'stop and smell the roses'.  Most of the time, I 'do' take breaks, and I 'do' strive to find balance in my life, but sometimes I'm just OBE, Overtaken By Events, and it's becomes difficult to implement even the best laid plans for fun and relaxation.

I've learned when I'm OBE, I need to step back, take a deep breath and put it all in perspective.  I remind myself that all of the work will get done, and I will work hard to do a good job.  Often, I put more pressure on myself than my clients, so I strive to lighten up just a bit.  If you're feeling that way - somethat stressed and over-worked, a victim of OBE maybe it's time take a break.  Pack away your computer and files, and make some time just for you.  If you can only take a short break today, plan something special for the weekend.  Burning the candle at both ends isn't healthy, particularly if you're working hard to achieve that dream, resolution, goal.  Give yourself some time to re-charge the batteries - that way you'll keep your creative juices flowing!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 28, 2007
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Do Everything You Can Do To Avoid Burn Out!

"Burn Out is like the desert on a 110 degree day - you don't want to go there when the sun is high and the day is long!  So, how to know when you're headed toward the desert and total burn out?  Equally important, how to avoid burn out?  A little bit of common sense goes a long way.  You have to pay attention to yourself, how you're feeling, your level of stress, level of activity, and the amount of time you're devoting to sheer relaxation.  Then take steps to reduce the work load, eliminate the stress, and make more time for you, your passions, interests, and the many things that bring joy to your life!''

Kim M. Simpson - June 27, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Be Optimistic The Second Half Of 2007! - Day 177

As we near that half-way point in 2007, why not travel through the next six months with a sense of hope, optimism and enthusiasm?  You only have so much energy to expend in any given day - why not channel that energy into positive thought and action, rather than worry and negativity.  I'm not urging you to simply 'think positive' and all your dreams will come true - that wouldn't get you very far, it's terrible advice.  I am urging you to pick that dream about which you have great passion and interest - something that would help to fulifll your life - then make a deicision to 'go for it', build a plan, and 'do it daily'!  Pursue your dream with a passion the second half of 2007 . . .

It's easy to feel like you're stuck in a 'rut' at times.  If you're feeling like that, perhaps it's time to spend some quiet, quality time examining what's going on in your life, and what you can do to make positive change.  Sometimes, just making a decision to do that - to 'act' - is half that battle.  Recognizing that you need to make some 'changes' is the first important step. The second step is equally important - educating yourself about the 'changes' that are necessary to get out of that rut, and on the road to fulfillment and a more rewarding life.  To succeed with your dreams, resolutions and goals you have to educate yourself about what you need to do to 'achieve', then follow through. 

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 27, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Resist Boredom! - Day 176

If you do the same 'routine' things day after day, over and over again - it is 'so easy' to grow bored and weary!  Boredom can rear it's ugly head in virtually any area of your live and in any endeavor.  Boredom is like tarnish on bronze, a stain on a clean white shirt - if you want to find that wonderful 'shine' underneath, you have to apply a bit of 'spit and polish'.  You have to make an effort!

The same applies for eliminating boredom in your life, particularly when you're working hard to achieve dreams, resolutions and goals.  It's Day 176 on the calendar.  We're very close to the half way mark in 2007, so if you're feeling a little weary, perhaps a little bored, take a deep breath and relax. It's not surprising.  It takes a lot of effort, creativity, patience, passion, and persistence to keep the energy going, to keep the dream alive day after day.

If you're feeling a little depleted, maybe it's time to give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done, and take a small break.  July 4th is right around the corner, why not take a few days off - not only from work, but give yourself a real rest - take a break from everything, including your dreams, resolutions and goals.  In addition to relaxing, toss the 'routine' out the window!  Order something different from the menu, laugh more, lighten up, forget about work for a few days, daydream a little.

After your break, when you get back to work, your daily 'routine' - you'll feel refreshed and ready to infuse some new 'life' into your strategy to make your resolution a reality in 2007.  You'll have the energy to map out your resolution strategy for the next six months!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 26, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Find A Little Joy This Week! - Day 175

Thank God It's Monday - TGIM!  Yes, we're at the start of a brand new week.  I enjoy Monday's as much as Friday's, so I'm cheering about both days here at IResolveTo.com whenever I have the opportunity! The start of a new week is just as important as the end of a week.  So many new options, experiences - new things to see, do, achieve, be, learn, create - 'if' you open your mind and Dare To Dream!

Why not make the most of today?  Find a little delight, joy, gladness for all that you have, all that you are?  To give you a nudge in that direction, here are a few words of inspiration . . . enjoy your week!

"True feeling justifies whatever it may cost."  May Sarton

"It seems to me we can never give up longing and wishing while we're alive.  There are certain things we feel to be beautiful and good, and we must hunger for them."  George Eliot

"Love involves a peculiar unfathomable combination of understanding and misunderstanding.     Diane Arbus

"Why not seize the pleasure at once?  How often is happiness destroyed by preparation, foolish preparation!"  Jane Austen

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 27, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Take A Break Today! - Day 174

It's sunny.  It's Sunday.  It's summertime.  Maybe it's time to take a break and do something joyous, fun, interesting, relaxing - just for me!  What a thought!  Yes it's okay to reward yourself for all your hard work.  Yesterday I wrote about striving to avoid 'burn out'.  Why not head it off at the pass, and take some 'time outs' before burn out sets in.  Do it for you.  I leave you with my own 'lessons learned' about 'burn out' . . .

"Burn Out is like the desert on a 110 degree day - you don't want to go there when the sun is high and the day is long!  So, how to know when you're headed toward the desert and total burn out?  Equally important, how to avoid burn out?  A little bit of common sense goes a long way.  You have to pay attention to yourself, how you're feeling, your level of stress, level of activity, and the amount of time you're devoting to sheer relaxation.  Then take steps to reduce the work load, eliminate the stress, and make more time for you, your passions, interests, and the many things that bring joy to your life!''

Take those steps today so that you have the energy and enthusiasm to pursue your dreams, resolutions and goals!  The desert and 'burn out' is the last place that you want to find yourself . . .

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 24, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Strive To Avoid Burn Out! - Day 173

Burn Out is like the desert on a 110 degree day - you don't want to go there when the sun is high and the day is long!  So, how to know when you're headed toward the desert and total burn out?  Equally important, how to avoid burn out?  A little bit of common sense goes a long way.  You have to pay attention to yourself, how you're feeling, your level of stress, level of activity, and the amount of time you're devoting to sheer relaxation, and to 'yourself'.

Personally, I grapple with the issue of burn out every year at this time.  In my business - communications, fundraising and photoraphy - it gets busier as the year wears on, the craziest months usually happening in May, June, July, September, and October.  I know the cycle very well and I try to prepare for it. Regardless, every year I grapple with that feeling total overwhelm for a number of weeks or months, then it subsides.  Last year, I took a break from a lot of personal and creative activities in the fall because I knew I simply needed a 'time out' to re-charge my batteries. It was a wise decision because I bounced back a few months later with some exciting new creative ideas. 

This year, on top of business obligations, I've been working near full-time on my 'resolution project' - helping others to achieve their dreams, resolutions and goals.  With that schedule in mind I'm paying close attention now, in order to avoid 'burn out later'.

You're probably asking, so what else can you do to avoid 'burn-out'?  Here are a few tips:

1. As I mentioned, pay attention to your attitude, level of stress, and your ability to take 'time outs' for relaxation.  If you're stressed, anxious and unhappy, maybe it's time to back off from your activities and examine what's going on.  Take a short-term break from a few responsibilities and do some things just for 'you', things that are fun and entertaining.  Pack a little more pleasure into your day, and a little less 'work'.  If you're experienceing more than a fleeting bout with, anxiety, unhappiness, or sadness, it's advisable to see your physcian for advice.  I'm not a trained psychologist, so I can't offer advice for depression or other related psychological problems.
2. Remember that the 'work will get done'.  Depress the the 'pressure valve' and remember that the 'To Do List' never goes away, but the work does get done, on time, and with quality in mind.  Create reasonable, achievable daily deadlines.  Don't kill yourself day after day with unrealistic goals.
3. Take a good hard look at your responsibilities.  Sometimes the load is just too heavy. Sometimes you have to ask yourself what you can remove from your 'To Do List' either for a period of time, or permanently.  Obviously that requires some serious scrutiny and soul-searching to arrive at healthy, happy, meaningful long-term decisions.
4. Take mini-breaks in between daily work obligations.  Whether you're working on professional or creative projects, take short breaks.  Take a walk, find the sunshine and stop and smell the roses. Re-charge your battery as often as you can during your workday.  During your weekend, spend some time devoted just to you and your passions, the things that bring joy to your life.

As is true with most things, the answers are unique to each individual.  Somtimes you can learn an awful lot just by learning to your body, heart and mind.

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 23, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Be A Resolutionista This Weekend! - Day 172

Summer is officially here - we're half way through 2007 - what better time to make a commitment to pursuing your dream!  You don't have to wait for New Year's Day 2008 to make a new resolution.  Make a resolution today to 'Go For It', now, rather than six months from now.  Stop procrastinating.  This weekend consider the possibilities. To give you a nudge in the open-minded direction this weekend, here are a few words of inspiration . . .

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

"It is the eye of ignorance that assigns a fixed and unchangeable color to every object; beware of this stumbling block."  Paul Gauguin

"Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were.  But without it we go nowhere."  Carl Sagan

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 22, 2007
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"Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were.  But without it we go nowhere."  Carl Sagan

I Resolve To™ . . . Celebrate The First Official Day of Summer! - Day 171

Ahhh . . . the first official day of summer - it's today folks!  Remember those cold, dark days of winter when it was truly impossible to find motivation?  Well those days are now a memory.  The sun is out, the skies are blue, the grass is green.  Summer is surely putting a smile on your face!  No excuses 'not' to find the motivation to pursue your dreams, resolutions and goals!

So what's stopping you?  Okay, don't draw up a long list of reasons why you can't or shouldn't pursue your dream today.  Instead, take one small step, on this the first day of summer, to make your dream a reality.  Open your mind and dare to dream about what is possible. We all have dreams, but we put them off for whole host of reasons:  have to earn a living, take care of a family, face responsibilities - to name a few very important reasons that dreams fall to the back burner. 

Consider for a moment that perhaps dreams can co-exist with the crush of 'daily life'.  Consider that you 'can' pursue a dream at the same time that you live up to all the other important commitments that you have made in your life.  Consider that your dream can add huge dividends to what is already in place in your life.

The first step is to just consider that it's possible - Dare To Dream.  The second step is to Decide to give it a 'go'.  The third step is to Define specifically what you hope to achieve.  The fourth step is to Develop A Plan.  And the fifth step is to Do It Daily - devote 20-30 minutes each day to your dream, one small step at at time. 

Why not give it some thought, give it a 'try'.  What do you have to lose?  You have 'more to lose' if you 'do nothing'.

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 21, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Believe That Anything Is Possible! - Day 170

If you dream large and truly 'believe', then anything is possible!  Are you enjoying the balmy days of summer.  Isn't it wonderful that winter is now just a memory?   Gone are the boots and winter coats.  'Hello' sandals and swimsuits!  Why not use these wonderful warm, sunny days to 'open your mind and dare to dream'?  What is that one thing that you would love to 'do, learn, achieve, feel, experience, create'?  That one thing that you want to do in this lifetime?  Why not make a decision today to 'go for it' - then 'do it'? 

You don't have to wait for New Year's Day 2008 to make a resolution.  That's six months away!  You can do it today.  You can walk the path toward achieving a cherished dream 'any day' that you have the guts, commitment, determination, patience, passion, and perseverance to make the journey.  Why not today?

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 20, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Fulfill Resolutions Large And Small! - Day 169

I resolve to achieve!  I just love those four words.  They mean a lot to me.  They signal my commitment, determination, and firm decision(s) to 'go for it'.  To work hard to achieve goals large and small each and every day.  To make each and every day count.  To make each and every day New Year's Day.  Obviously since I show up here everday to write about 'how' to make and keep New Year Resolutions, they're a centerpiece of my life. 

I can't imagine a life without dreams, resolutions and goals.  What a sad existence life would be without the rewards reaped by stretching your imagination, dreaming those impossible dreams, then striving to make them a reality - and actually 'doing it':  making it to the finish line in a marathon, writing your first really bad novel (followd by a really great novel!), developing an exercise program, learning photography, earning a college degree, learning a new language, meeting your soulmate, learning to relax, learning to draw . . . the possibilities are endless!

So what's your dream?  Why not 'finally' pull a dream off your list of the things you truly want to 'do, see, achieve, feel, learn' in this lifetime.  Pick just one really big, great dream - and make a firm decision to go for it, build a plan, and take one small step each and every day toward achieving that dream.  I preach about pursuing just one 'large' life-altering dream because you set yourself up for failure from the start if you make a long un-realistic list of resolutions.  It's hard enough to achieve one dream at a time, let alone 10!  Not enough hours or energy in the day. 

That said, I don't believe in achieving a dream, checking it off your list, then moving on.  I keep my dreams.  In my case my dreams and resolutions have run the gamut - a commitment to daily exercise, learning and excelling at photograpy, writing a really bad novel (then moving on to writing a really great book!), earning college degrees, building a business . . . all are still part of my life, they're my Liftime Resolutions! 

If you're really determined to make a 'list' of resolutions that you want to pursue - make just one 'big' resolution along with some 'mini' resolutions like performing one random act of kindness each day,improving your diet by eating salads five days each week, walking for 20-minutes everyday, getting eight hours of sleep . . . you get the picture.  These 'mini' resolutions are smaller promises that you can make and keep, and they can reap great reward and fulfillment, same as the largest of dreams.

So why not do it today?  The Summer Solstace - that midway point in the year - happens later this week, on June 21.  Why not reflect on the first half of 2007, then look ahead at what you would like to achieve the rest of the year.  After all you can make New Year resolutions any day of the year.

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 19, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . 'Make It Happen This Week'! - Day 168

TGIM!  Yes, I'm grateful it's Monday . . . 'no' I'm not crazy to welcome the start of a new 'work week'.  It just means I have another full week to devote to my dreams, resolutions, goals.  I'm a Resolutionista, and darn proud of it.  I make and keep my New Year Resolutions, and I enjoy the journey. I hope you'll become a Resolutionista too!  Use these warm, wonderful days of summer to catapult yourself closer to achieving your dream, one small step, one day at a time.  To get you going, here's a daily dose of resolution inspiration!  This is one of my all time favorite quotes - I hope you find it encouraging as you make your journey this week . . .

"If a man is called to be a streetsweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beetoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry.  He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, here lived a great streetsweeper who did his job well." Martin Luther King, Jr.

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 18, 2007
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"If a man is called to be a streetsweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beetoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry.  He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, here lived a great streetsweeper who did his job well." Martin Luther King, Jr.

I Resolve To™ . . . Just Say 'YES' - Day 167

You've heard of the 'Just Say No Program' to discourage drug abuse that was popular in the 1980's and 1990's.  What about a 'Just Say YES Program' to achieve dreams?  Dreams, resolutions and goals come in all shapes and sizes - all unique to the individual.  So often we approach life from a negative perspective.  We work hard to change things that we dislike about ourselves.  We struggle to replace bad habits with good ones.  We create a list of five or 10 New Year Resolutions on January 1 - all dramatic changes that we want to make in our lives, but changes that we know we won't make (too many, too difficult, too unrealistic, too much all at once).

Why not replace the 'negative with the positive'?  Why not just say 'YES' to pursuing one cherished dream.  Don't worry about 10 lofty resolutions, or seemingly impossible goals.  Instead, focus on one thing that you've always wanted to create, do, achieve, be, experience, learn.  Don't focus on your whole list of 25, 50, 100 things that you truly want to achieve in your lifetime - your Lifetime Resolutions, the things that you want to achieve and keep with you for good (not' discard as you check them off your 'To Do List'!).  Too much pressure.  Just focus on one dream, one resolution - then pursue small manageable goals one at a time, one day at a time. 

That's the I Resolve To Formula For Success:

Dream + Resolution + Goals = Success, Achievement, Fulfillment!

We're at the half-way point in 2007 - give it some thought.  It's never too late to begin work on a dream.  You don't have to wait six months to begin - you don't have to wait until New Year's Day to make and keep your resolution, pursue your dream, achieve your goal.  Just say 'YES' to your dream, today!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 17, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Enjoy The Lazy Days Of Summer! - Day 166

Throughout the winter months I counted the days until Spring.  Now that we're into the lazy days of summer, I'm going to enjoy each and every one - even when I have to work!  I hope you're able to put your 'responsibilities on pause' this weekend, so that you have your own quality time.  We all need time to think, daydream, rest, relax, enjoy a hobby, or time spent with family and friends.  Make the most of it!  And in between relaxing and other responsibilities try to spend a little time working toward your dream - not hours and hours, maybe just 30-minutes or an hour.  Small daily steps add up over time, like compound interest on money in the bank.  With that in mind, as you wind your way through this lovely weekend, I offer these warm words of inspiration . . .

"No matter what troubles are dogging you, eventually they will pass, and hopefully leave you a stronger, smarter person.  Amidst all of that, you somehow need to fulfill your dreams, one small step at a time.  I'm determined to do that, with inegrity, dignity, grace, and intelligence."    Copyright Kim M. Simpson 2005 * All Rights Reserved

"Reach high for stars lie hidden in your soul.  Dream deep for every dream precedes the goal."  Pamela Vaull Starr

"The excursion  is the same when you go looking for your sorrow as when you go looking for your joy."  Eudora Welty

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 16, 2007
Copyright © I Resolve To™ * All Rights Reserved

"No matter what troubles are dogging you, eventually they will pass, and hopefully leave you a stronger, smarter person.  Amidst all of that, you somehow need to fulfill your dreams, one small step at a time.  I'm determined to do that, with inegrity, dignity, grace, and intelligence."    Copyright Kim M. Simpson 2005 * All Rights Reserved

"Reach high for stars lie hidden in your soul.  Dream deep for every dream precedes the goal."  Pamela Vaull Starr

"The excursion  is the same when you go looking for your sorrow as when you go looking for your joy."  Eudora Welty

I Resolve To™ . . . Celebrate Friday! - Day 165

TGIF!  Yes, it's my weekly celebration.  I just love Fridays!  Though work is making my life a bit crazy these days, and I do have to work part of the weekend, I'm going to make the best of it.  I'm definitely going to hit the pool in between projects, and I'm going to step outside to listen to the birds, and enjoy the wonderful, warm summer days just ahead this weekend. 

Even if I can't spend the whole day 'goofing off', I can make just a bit of time for me!  I hope you're able to do the same.  And I hope as we near the end of June, you spend some time thinking about pursuing a cherished dream.  Maybe you're thinking about a New Year resolution that you made, but didn't keep.  Why not do it now, this summer, while the skies are blue, the grass is green, and the temperatures are warm? Don't wait for the dead of winter to get started.  Cold and snow, boots and wind make it far too easy to 'procrastinate'!  Why not start now?  Consider the progress you could make in the next six months.  Think how proud you would be on January 1, 2008!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 15, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Have No Fear! - Day 164

No Fear!  That's that attitude I'm taking as I pursue my dream of writing a book about how to achieve New Year Resolutions.  When you stop worrying about whether or not you're going to fail, and begin using that energy 'constructively' it's interesting how much progress you can make.  Personally, I'm a practical optimist.  I don't view the world through rose colored glasses, but I am a dreamer.  I don't approach projects worrying about failure, but I do make contingency plans, and expect even the 'best laid plans' to get messed up periodically.  I'm good at thinking on my feet. 

Yes, I have at times fallen victim to 'fear' and 'worry'.  It's human nature. But when you are concious of what you're 'thinking' and how your emotions are impacting your thoughts and actions, you can shift those thoughts from worry to positive action.  When you are taking small, determined steps toward achieveing a dream, resolution, goal - you begin to gain momentum and confidence.  Fear and worry soon dissolve. 

We're nearly half way through 2007.  If you have a dream that you would truly love to pursue, but worry about will failing, or wasting your time, or not living up to your own expectations - stop.  Stop worrying.  Set your fears aside.  Instead, make a leap of faith.  Believe in yourself and your dream enough to 'give it a chance'.  Use the warm, lovely months of summer as a catalyst.  Have some fun.  Bottom line, stop worrying and start doing!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 14, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Pursue My Dream Today, Not Tomorrow! - Day 163

We're at that mid-part of the week, and we're mid-way through the year - maybe it's time for a little introspection!  New Year's Day isn't the only occasion for looking back, looking within, and looking forward.  You can do that any day of the year.  Of course, it's always easier if you can hook your hopes and dreams to an occasion like New Year's Day, but we're 203 days away from January 1, 2008.  That's a long time to wait to pursue a heartfelt dream.

Why not start stirring the embers of that fire - your dream - right now, this summer, while the skies are blue, the grass is green, the weather is warm, and spirits are high?  You don't have to wait. Do it today!  Pull up a chair in your favorite indoor or outdoor spot - a park, coffe house, your back yard, wherever you can have some quiet time in a favorite setting. Then pull out a notebook or journal, and start daydreaming.  What is it that you want - more than anything in this world - to do, see, achieve, learn, create, experience?  No dream is too big or small.  Give it some thought.  Jot down all the things that come to mind, in all areas of your life - all the things you'd love to do while you're still walking God's green earth.  Then pick just one dream to pursue.  Start working toward that dream this summer.  Don't wait for the dead of winter to roll around . . .

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 13, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Turn Failure To Success! Day 162

There is no true 'failure' in life if you play your cards right.  We're at that half-way point in the year when some folks start looking back, pondering the New Year Resolutions they made, and abandoned.  The resolutions were probably a laundry list of things that needed to be 'changed'.  I like to call them 'sins'.  It's that same list that folks make year after year.  The resolutions are all 'good intentions', probably healthy, laudible changes, but changes, nonetheless, that go unfufilled.  That prompts a feeling of failure.

Consider this:  when you fail, you can also win!  First, if you truly 'tried', and failed anyway - you didn't actually 'fail' if you enjoyed the journey and learned your lessons.  Imagine not 'trying' at all.  A life filled with regret is far worse than failures, or partial victories.  Second, failures can be stepping stones to future successes.  After a hard fought battle, if you pick yourself up, dust yourself off and walk away, head held high with dignity, you will eventually heal and be ready to fight for a new dream.  Sometimes you have to retreat, lick your wounds, treat introspection as the good friend that it is, and look deep inside for new direction. 

If you're one of those folks who staring at a list of so-called failed resolutions, maybe it's time to move in a new direction.  Instead of drafting a long list of 'sins' - consider pursuing just one dream this summer - something that you would passionately love to learn, see, do, be, achieve, feel, create.  If you weren't able to tackle 10 resolutions aimed at changing every part of your life - why make that mistake again.  This time, try something different.  Pick just one dream about which you have great interest and desire. 

This weekend, give it some thought.  Pull out a pen and notebook.  If you never have drafted a list of 'dreams', find a nice shady spot in the park, and Dare To Dream.  Jot down the 10, 20, 50, 100 things that you truly want to do while you are still here on this earth.  Open your mind and soar.  No holds barred.  Even if the dreams seem impossible, write them down anyway.  There is no 'impossible dream' if you truly believe in yourself, your abilities, and your dream.  This weekend, why not 'go for it'.  It just may be the most important thing that you do in 2007!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 12, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Do A Mid-Year Review! - Day 161

It's Monday, we have seven full days to make progress on those cherished dreams - and better yet - we have 204 days left this year!  That's plenty of time to dust off that resolution that you made nearly six months ago.  Perhaps your intentions were good, but you just didn't have true interest, motivation, committment, and a 'plan' to make your resolution a reality.  It's not too late.  Maybe it's time to do a mid-year review. 

Keep in mind, you don't have to make improvements in every part of your life.  You'll just make that long 'tired' list of stuff you think you should change, then you'll get overwhelmed and discouraged by lack of progress.  If you want to make real change in your life, pick one thing that you would truly, passionately love to do. And it doesn't need to be a 'sin' - something that you feel is a bad habit, or something negative about yourself that you need to change, such as losing weight, stopping smoking, eliminating alcohol, and so on.  Those would be healthy mid-year resolutions, but if you're really stuck - perhaps it's time to start with just one dream - something that you've always wanted to do, see, experience, learn, achieve, create - something that you would enjoy!

Maybe it's time to write that novel, or do some regional travel to sites you've never seen, simple day trips.  Maybe it's time to train for a marathon, or maybe it's time to learn to relax. Maybe it's time to organize your house one room at a time, or maybe it's time to spend more time reading.  Maybe it's time to volunteer at the local animal shelter, or maybe it's time to spend more quality time with your kids.

Dreams come in all shapes and sizes.  We all have them.  Each one is as unique and important as the individual that is 'dreaming'.  The process starts with a simple spark of interest and a 'gut' feeling.  Trust your instincts and 'go for it'!  Give it some thought.  The rest of this week, I'll be re-visiting some simple steps to ignite a flame under your dream, resolution, goals . . . maybe it's time to fan that flame!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 11, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Make The Best Of Everything! - Day 160

Real personal power is often a matter of choice.  It's all in the choosing, the decisions that you make.  If you make a choice today that it will be a great day, you will start your day off in the right direction. Life might throw some curveballs at you througout the day - but if you make a decision to 'make the best of everything' you'll weather the storms large and small.  If you make a decision, today, to pursue your dream, resolution, goal - you've also started your day off in the right direction. I hope you make some time for 'you' this week - you and your dreams!  I offer these words of inspiration as you strive to 'head off in the right direction' this week - success, achievement and fulfillment . . .

"How vain it is to sit down and write when you have not stood up to live."   Henry David Thoreau

"Don't think.  Thinking is the enemy of creativity.  It's self-concious, and anything self-concious is lousy.  You can't try to do things.  You simply must do things."  Ray Bradbury - American science-fiction short stories & novels writer

"For a long time now I have tried simply to write the best I can.  Sometimes I have good luck and write better than I can." Ernest Hemingway

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 10, 2007
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"How vain it is to sit down and write when you have not stood up to live."   Henry David Thoreau

"Don't think.  Thinking is the enemy of creativity.  It's self-concious, and anything self-concious is lousy.  You can't try to do things.  You simply must do things."  Ray Bradbury - American science-fiction short stories & novels writer

"For a long time now I have tried simply to write the best I can.  Sometimes I have good luck and write better than I can." Ernest Hemingway

Always Imagine . . . Dare To Dream!

"Pick up a copy of Ernest Hemingway's A Moveable Feast.  Savor Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.  Soar and sway with Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Ron Carter, Ella Fizgerald, Billy Holiday, Sara Vaughn.  Remember always the words of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr.  They imagined what is possible.  They overcame the impossible.  They dared to dream.  You can too.  There is no dream too large, or too small.  Each dream is as unique and important as each individual.  Your dream is possible, just imagine, always imagine . . . "

Kim M. Simpson - June 9, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Seek The 'Zone' - Day 159

When you're doing something that you truly 'love' it's not hard to find the 'zone'.  Some folks call it 'getting in the groove'.  Runner's experience a high.  Tennis players hit stroke after stroke effortlessly, each ball kissing the 'sweet spot' of the racket.  Writers pound out page after page of great narrative.  Personally, I've experienced all three, while running, playing tennis, and writing.  It's a wonderful feeling!  It doesn't happen every day, but when it does - it's bliss!

It's when you find yourself so fully and completely 'in the moment', so totally absorbed by what you're doing, that you lose track of time.  There are no distractions in the zone.  There is no 'procrastinating in the zone.  The zone is a special gift for those hours and days when you're toiling, seeking progress that is nearly impossible to find.  Just when you're about ready to throw in the towel out of sheer frustration, the zone arrives 'because' of all that hard work, devotion, passion, patience, persistence that you shower upon your dream, resolution, goal . . .

My point is this - finding the zone isn't free of charge, you have to work for it - but it's defintely worth it.  Lately, I've been finding myself squarely in the zone because I'm working on creative projects that I love.  Actually, my creative projects aren't really work.  Yes, I make a lot of sacrifices for my dreams and I experience obstacles and frustrations, but I find a way to overcome them.  It's those hours spent in the zone that help me through!  As you nurture your dreams, I hope you find many, many happy hours in the zone, just as I have!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 9, 2007
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If You Truly Believe, Then Anything Is Possible . . .

"If you believe anything is possible, and if you believe in yourself and your dreams . . . then the possibilities are infinite and achievable."

Kim M. Simpson - June 9, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Make Time For 'Me' This Weekend! - Day 158

TGIF!!  That wonderful day of the week.  Even if you have to work this weekend - home projects, business, errands, etc - it is the weekend, and that means it's time to carve out some quality time for you!  When you think about how you spend your time each day, consider how much you do for other people.  There's nothing wrong with that - it's called honoring life responsibilities.  The problem is, in the flurry of activity, it's far too easy to forget about 'taking care of you'!

I truly believe 'taking care of you' is vitally important to staying happy and healthy.  It's important if you want to avoid burn-out, and have energy, enthusiasm, and a feeling of excitement in your life.  That's why 'dreams, resolutions and goals' are so important.  Your dreams are 'yours'.  They help to replenish your heart, mind and soul.  So this weekend, do something for you.  Spend some time thinking, planning and making a 'dream real.'    I offer these words of inspiration to get you pointed in that direction . . . Squeeze the juice out of life this weekend!

"Life is like playing a violin in public and learning the instrument as one goes on." Samuel Butler (1835-1902) from 1001 Meditations by Mike George

"Straightaway the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God."  Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) from 1001 Meditations by Mike George

"I have a wealth of knowledge and talents.  Each day I spend some time in quiet contemplation to allow these riches to emerge."  Modern Affirmation from 1001 Meditations by Mike George

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 8, 2007
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"Life is like playing a violin in public and learning the instrument as one goes on." Samuel Butler (1835-1902) from 1001 Meditations by Mike George

"Straightaway the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God."  Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) from 1001 Meditations by Mike George

"I have a wealth of knowledge and talents.  Each day I spend some time in quiet contemplation to allow these riches to emerge."  Modern Affirmation from 1001 Meditations by Mike George

The Power Of One: One Small Step, One Day At A Time!

"If you have a dream, resolution, goal - the path to success, fulfullment and achievement is to multiply the power of one by 365: one dream, one firm resolution to achieve that dream X 365 goals - small daily steps. You may achieve your dream on 301 steps, or 1701 steps. It may take you six months, or two years.  The important thing is that you 'do it daily', and keep your dream with you for life, a Lifetime Resolution. Take action. Make a decision today to 'go for it' each and every day.

Kim M. Simpson - June 8, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Re-Ignite My Dream! - Day 157

We're getting close to that half way point in 2007!   Almost six months ago, on January 1, we made a promise to keep a resolution.  How is it going?  Are you living up to your promise and your convictions?  Or did you give up after a couple weeks?  If you're working hard to live that dream, congratulations!  Keep up the good work.  If you're struggling - no worries, you're not alone - most folks gave up long ago. Regardless, the important thing to keep in mind:   we still have 208 days left in 2007, plenty of time to fulfill that dream, keep that resolution and achieve that goal.

If you want to re-ignite the fire beneath that cherished dream, I offer a simple, common-sense system for success.  Stop by in coming days - have a look at my daily tips, and page through my 2007 columns.  Tomorrow's a new day, a new opportunity to give it a go!

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 7, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Imagine What Can Be! - Day 156

Imagine what can 'be' - what you can 'be, do, achieve, create, experience' - if you set your mind to it, and work hard with patience, passion and persistence!  Just imagine. Take a break from your day today and spend a little time daydreaming.  There is nothing wrong with daydreaming, it helps to expand horizons, set the bar just a tiny bit higher, and imagine what is 'possible'.

Pick up a copy of Ernest Hemingway's A Moveable Feast.  Savor Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.  Soar and sway with Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Ron Carter, Ella Fizgerald, Billy Holiday, Sara Vaughn.  Remember always the words of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr.   They imagined what is possible.  They overcame the impossible.  They dared to dream.  You can too.  There is no dream too large, or too small.  Each dream is as unique and important as each individual.  Your dream is possible, just imagine, always imagine . . . "

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 6, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Take It One Day At A Time! - Day 155

When you're working hard at a dream, resolution, goal - or just at 'life' in general - it's so easy to get overwhelmed, tired, burned out.  Do more, be more, achieve more, buy more.  More, more more . . . I'm sure you get the same news and advertising that I do from television, magazines, newspapers and the Internet.  You probably drive on roads that are snarled with traffic, same as I do.  And you probably have a job, family, friends, church, and other obligations that require a lot of your undivided 'quality' time and attention, same as I do.  Think about all that you 'do' in a day by choice, and all that is thrown at you by 'life's random event's'. It's mind-boggling isn't it?

That's why it's so important to take things one day at a time.  Personally, I get a way head of myself in my business - looking weeks and weeks ahead at work projects and what needs to be done.  That's my job, that's what I get paid to do:  strategic planning, raising money for clients, throwing events, creating communications stategies, and making things happen.  To succeed, I'm forced plan weeks, months and sometimes a year or more in advance of project deadlines.  It all comes together because I brainstorm, do my homework, build solid plans, create timelines with realistic deadlines, write it all down, do daily/weekly Check-Ins, and make course corrections. 

That's the system that I live and breath day in and day out for work, my personal life and my dreams.  It keeps me sane, on-track, organized, efficient, and productive. I succeed because I have a system that moves me from thinking about my goals and dreams, to making my goals and dreams a reality.  I long ago figured out I can't do it all at once, I need to do it one step at a time, one day at a time.  I achieve calmly, with conviction, passion, patience, and persistence.  Achieving dreams isn't a sprint, it's a life-long marathon.  Take a deep breath, take your time, enjoy the journey - One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year!  I live by that . . . and I routinely wish for a few extra hours in each 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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 5, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Go For It This Week! - Day 154

What a wonderful gift - another new day, another new week!  Yes we get another one of each, and I'm determined to make the best of it.  Personally, I'm making progress with work and creative projects. I hit the pool today, so I did my 30-minutes of exercise (my Lifetime Resolution).  The sun is out, the weather is warm, and we finally got rain for our 'poor plants' here in Fredericksburg. Summer is here!  Gone are the complaints about cold weather, snow, cabin fever, and winter doldrums.  That's behind us now, thank goodness.

No more excuses, folks.  If you've been living the Someday, Someday, Someday Symdrome - it's time to stop!  Winter doldrums is a pretty common and understandable excuse for procrastinating, but it's time to push past that now.  Keep in mind, there are 211 days left in 2007 - plenty of time to get busy and make some real progress on achieveing a cherished dream.  So do 'give up' on your dreams, get going! I offer these words of inspiration to get you going . . .

"I must govern the clock not be governed by it."  Golda Meir

"The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."  Dolly Parton

"You don't get to choose how you're going to die.  Or when.  You can only decide how you're going to live.  Now."  Joan Baez

"Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows." Helen Keller

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 4, 2007
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"I must govern the clock not be governed by it."  Golda Meir

"The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."  Dolly Parton

"You don't get to choose how you're going to die.  Or when.  You can only decide how you're going to live.  Now."  Joan Baez

"Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows." Helen Keller

I Resolve To™ . . . Work Hard To Avoid Boredom! - Day 153

When you're working hard to fulfill a dream, keep a resolution or achieve a goal, it's so easy to grow bored and weary.  On January 1, folks make up a list of resolutions that they believe they should keep - new things they want to learn, bad habits they want to un-learn, things they want to create or build . . . the list is as unique as the individual.  One of the most common resolutions is to 'get in shape' - EXERCISE!  The gyms fill for a few weeks in January, then they empty just as quickly in February as folks lose their steam.  They grow bored, weary, or figure out they just weren't that 'committed' to making the time, working hard, and following through with a plan to make their resolution a reality.

It doesn't have to end like that.  You don't have to 'give up' before you even begin!  When you start with a dream for which you have great interest and passion, it's easy to stay energetic and enthusiastic - particularly in the beginning.  The difficulty is in keeping the momentum going and staying motivated for the long haul.

Exercise is one of my Lifetime Resolutions.  I long ago made it a priority and I try to work out everyday.  In a perfect world I would work out everyday for 30 to 90 minutes.  The last few years, I've had a stellar record that I'm proud of.  This year - 2007 - has been extremely busy (work, personal life and my resolution project), so I've been working out three to five days each week for 20-30 minutes.  My problem isn't boredom, it's sheer lack of time.  But what if you want to exercise and stick with it, but grow bored very quickly?  Let me share a few tips that apply to exercise and a variety of other resolutions:

1. Build a plan that includes variety.  Variety is the 'spice of life' and it can lend 'flavor' to your dreams, resolutions and goals!  Make sure to do your homework first - learn all you can about what you want to achieve, and how you're going to achieve it.  Then build and schedule weekly and monthly 'To Do's' that will keep you engaged and interested.  For instance, If you want to exercise everyday, vary your work outs by season:   Indoor exercise during the winter (gym, bike, volleyball, basketball, jogging, stretching, Yoga;  Outdoor exercise during the warmer months (gardening, swimming, tennis, golf, long walks, softball, home projects).  If you work hard to vary your routine - doing a variety of different forms of exercise throughout the year, you're more likely to avoid boredom.
2. Pursue your activities with buddies who share your passion!  Don't 'go it alone'.  It's always more fun to share your dreams with kindred spirits.  When you're working with others on a project, you'll enjoy the infusion of fresh ideas and perspectives.  Their enthusiasm can be infectious on those days when you're feeling bored or weary.  It's also a lot more fun to share good times working toward a dream with friends, classmates, club members, or family members.
3. Take a class!  Continually learning new things will keep you inspired.  It's harder to get in a 'rut' when you're moving steadily forward with your 'To Do's' - and a class can help to keep you focused and interested in your dream.
4. Take breaks!  If you feel like you're getting burned out, growing weary, or succombing to numbing boredom, set your dream aside for a few days or a few weeks.  That said, when you take breaks, you need to set a firm date to 're-start', and have firm goals to pursue when you hit the ground running again.  It takes discipline to faithfully return to a dream after a break.  Schedule a firm 're-start' task - a class or an activity with a buddy - to make sure you don't become a New Year Resolution 'statistic'.

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 3, 2007
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I Resolve To™ . . . Fight Fear of Success and Fear of Failure! - Day 152

Fear is a common obstacle to fulfilling dreams, keeping New Year resolutions and achieving goals.  We fear what we don't understand.  We fear being embarrassed or humiliated.  We fear making and failing to keep the same New Year resolution over and over again.  We fear change.  We fear being hurt.  Fear comes in all shapes and sizes and it strikes each and every one of us.  It's an often emotional, irrational reaction to life.  It's often larger than life, since it's so easy to blow things way out of proportion when you're afraid. 

Fear is an uncomfortable feeling, and often, we avoid pleasant, positive things because we're 'afraid'.  When you get hurt in romance often enough, you start avoiding dating, or intimate relationships - it's easy to become less trusting, and open about your feelings.  Likewise, when you burn your hand on a stove once, you avoid making that mistake again, because it hurts.  It's true, burning your hand on a stove is a less complex fear to deal with than fear in relationships - I mention them because they illustrate two totally different, but common, kinds of 'fear'.

So how to avoid fear of failure and fear of success when you're working toward a dream, or thinking about 'making that leap of faith' and pursuing a dream?  There's no one, simple, easy answer, but here are some suggestions:

1. Recognize when 'fear' is getting in the way, or 'stalling' a dream.  Fear of failure can immobilize a person.  Perhaps you keep making the same mistake and you're afraid of 'failing again'.  At that point, maybe it's time to seek the advice of a trusted friend, mentor, or teacher who can view the situation from an un-biased, non-emotional perspective.  If you seek advice from an 'expert', even better.  For instance, if you're trying to get in shape - a personal trainer can help you to devise an exercise program that works for you.  Don't 'go it alone'.  Seek input.
2. Recognize when 'fear' is being caused by a lack or 'knowledge' or 'skill'.  Again, this plays into fear of failure.  If you educate yourself before you begin work on a dream - and continue that education-process throughout your journey - you'll have more control over your plan of action, and each and every step that you take toward achieving your dream.  You can move forward from a position of strength and courage.  Knowledge is power!
3. Recognize when 'fear of success' is holding you back.  Success often creates large and small changes in a person's life.  Instead of celebrating the victories, the fulfillment, the fun, pleasure, and enjoyment - it's easy to fear change itself.  Change happens whether we want it to or not.  Why not invite change and welcome it into your life by pursuing a cherished dream.  The worst thing that can happen is that you'll make some mistakes along the way, or maybe decide that the dream isn't really your 'cup of tea'.  If that happens, learn your lessons and move on! 
4. Recognize that fear can exaggerate the true nature of a situation - sometimes it really is 'all in your head'.  If you pursue a dream, what's the worst thing that can happen?  Most mistakes aren't going to 'kill you' - unless, of course, your dream is to climb a mountain and you fall off a cliff.  But even if your dream is to climb that mountain, don't let fear stop you.  Educate yourself about what it will take to safely climb the mountain, then do everything you can to protect yourself.  If your dream truly is to make it to the 'highest peak', don't go to your grave without making the climb!
5. Recognize that this is it.  You only get one life, one chance to live your dreams.  Why live a life full of regret and sorrow for all the things that you 'didn't do', but really, really wanted to 'try'?  Fear is a huge dream killer.  Don't let it stop you.  Don't give into it.

Personally, I grapple with fear of failure and fear of success.  It's human nature.   But if you want to climb mountains, write books, run marathons, reach for the stars, you have to recognize, accept, and understand fear, then move past it, and get on with your dreams, resolutions and goals.  I don't pretend to have all the answers - I learn something new everyday, but that's what keeps me going.  I strive to learn something new everyday, because I push past my fears, and I try to achieve my 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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

Kim M. Simpson - June 2, 2007
Copyright © I Resolve To™ * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Shift Out Of Neutral Into Drive! - Day 151

TGIF!  Yes, that wonderful day of the week!  The weekend is just ahead, are you going to make good use of your time?  Time passes so quickly - our days are so full. It's so easy to grab the television 'remote' and 'park' in front of the television, or 'surf' endlessly on the Internet, or 'putter' aimlessly around the house.  Sometimes those activities are really necessary for good health and well being.  If you are constantly 'on the go', constantly pushing forward and striving, your body eventually tells you 'enough is enough, slow down'!  Those activities become a happy, healthy reprieve while you rest and relax. 

But don't slow down and stay in 'neutral' permanently!  Yes, in 'neutral' your work will get done.  Your chores around the house will probably get done.  You'll take care of your family.  You'll probably make good on social and church responsibilities.  And you'll probably pursue hobbies, along with a variety of other activities.  But will you pursue any acvtivities that are made just for you?  Will you pursue a heartfelt dream, something that you've always wanted to do, seek, achieve, learn, be?  Will you do something just for you?

All things to think about this weekend.  I wish you well this weekend and offer a few inspirational thoughts from the I Resolve To library:

"Do it now.  Take that first small step.  Open your mind, dare to dream, and make a decision to 'go for it' in 2007.  Proscrastination is your worst enemy and patience is your best friend.  One resolution, one day at a time for one year.  Become a Resolution Revolutionary.  Make each day count.  Make each and every day New Year's Day!"  Kim M.Simpson  * Copyright I Resolve To * All Rights Reserved

"It's all about setting priorities, doing the best you can, celebrating your wins, learning from your losses, and just 'getting up the next day to do it all over again.'" Kim M. Simpson * Copyright I Resolve To * All Rights Reserved

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. Turn your resolution into reality. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!!

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

"It's all about setting priorities, doing the best you can, celebrating your wins, learning from your losses, and just 'getting up the next day to do it all over again.'" Kim M. Simpson * Copyright I Resolve To * All Rights Reserved