I RESOLVE TO . . .

I Resolve To™ . . . Honor Arbor Day 2008! - Day 116

Happy Arbor Day!  Thanks to Nebraska's J. Sterling Morton, Arbor Day was born on April 10, 1872.  Morton was a pioneer who came to the plains of Nebraska from Detroit and became the editor of the state's first newspaper.  According to the Arbor Day Foundation website, prizes were offered to individuals and counties for properly planting trees, and on that first Arbor Day more than a million trees were planted around the state of Nebraska.  Today, with Global Warming threatening the planet, planting carbon-absorbing trees in the spirit of that first Arbor Day is more important than ever, by individuals and communities alike.

It's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

According to CarbonFootprint.Com:  "Each tree planted ‘offsets’ your environmental impact by ‘breathing’ in about 730 kg CO2 emissions over its lifetime of 100 years. It is estimated that the average person needs to save about 7,000 kg of CO2 per year. So planting just 10 trees each year is one strategy for achieving this." 

IF you're ready to give the boot to your carbon footprint and celebrate Arbor Day, consider planting a tree this weekend.  To lend a little inspiration to your effort, here are some warm words of wisdom from The Quote Garden:

"If a man walks in the woods for love of them half of each day, he is in danger of being regarded as a loafer.  But if he spends his days as a speculator, shearing off those woods and making the earth bald before her time, he is deemed an industrious and enterprising citizen."   Henry David Thoreau

"Trees are poems that earth writes upon the sky,
We fell them down and turn them into paper,
That we may record our emptiness."
Kahlil Gibran

"Only when the last tree has died and the last river been poisoned and the last fish been caught will we realise we cannot eat money."  Cree Indian Proverb

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 25, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

It's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

According to CarbonFootprint.Com:  "Each tree planted ‘offsets’ your environmental impact by ‘breathing’ in about 730 kg CO2 emissions over its lifetime of 100 years. It is estimated that the average person needs to save about 7,000 kg of CO2 per year. So planting just 10 trees each year is one strategy for achieving this." 

IF you're ready to give the boot to your carbon footprint and celebrate Arbor Day, consider planting a tree this weekend.  To lend a little inspiration to your effort, here are some warm words of wisdom from The Quote Garden:

"If a man walks in the woods for love of them half of each day, he is in danger of being regarded as a loafer.  But if he spends his days as a speculator, shearing off those woods and making the earth bald before her time, he is deemed an industrious and enterprising citizen."   Henry David Thoreau

"Trees are poems that earth writes upon the sky,
We fell them down and turn them into paper,
That we may record our emptiness."
Kahlil Gibran

"Only when the last tree has died and the last river been poisoned and the last fish been caught will we realise we cannot eat money."  Cree Indian Proverb

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 25, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Put A Smile On Someone's Face Today - Day 115

A smile, a kind word, simple show of support . . . doing something nice for someone else is an easy feat.  But like most good habits, you have to be conscious of your actions and make a decided effort to 'do good', otherwise 'nothing happens'.  So how many acts of kindness did you shower on others last week?  Yesterday?  How often do you think about 'acts of kindness'.  It's worth a little thought and effort because a few kind words and simple gestures can easily bring a smile to someone's face, and add a little happiness to your own day.

It's Thursday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

As you meander through your Thursday - at work, on the street, in stores, with friends and family -consider what you can do to make someone's day.  I offer these warm words of inspiration from The QuoteGarden to get you going . . .

"You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."  Ralph Waldo Emerson

"By swallowing evil words unsaid, no one has ever harmed his stomach."  Winston Churchill

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.  If you want to be happy, practice compassion."  Dalai Lama

"Remember that everyone you meet is afraid of something, loves something and has lost something."   H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

"The more sympathy you give, the less you need."  Malcolm S. Forbes

"In about the same degree as you are helpful, you will be happy."  Karl Reiland

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 24, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 24, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Celebrate Arbor Day By Planting A Tree - Day 114

Earth Day 2008 is now history, but if you want to continue the pro-environment momentum by celebrating another 'good for the earth' holiday', Arbor Day 2008 falls on Friday April 25, just two days from now.  It's Wednesday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights and computers when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Much is being written by scientists about the positive impact of planting more trees on Global Warming.  But, concern about trees and their beneficial impact on our natural habitats is not new.  Arbor Day was the brainchild of J. Sterling Morton and celebrated for the first time April 10,1872 in my home state of Nebraska.  The Arbor Day Foundation, has a lot of interesting historical information about Morton's quest to plant trees in the plains of Nebraska, as well as useful information about planting and caring for your own trees.

If you want to celebrate Arbor Day - and make a difference for the environment - why not make a Decision to 'go for it' today?   Define what you want to do, educate yourself, and Develop A Plan so you can take action this spring. Why not follow the Five Step I Resolve To . . . System for achieving your dreams resolutions and goals?  There is no better time than the present to learn what you can do to contribute.  Why not consider planting a tree in your yard, or getting involved in local efforts to plant and preserve trees.  If you're looking for historical information about Arbor Day, as ways that you can make a difference, have a look at these useful websites:

Arbor Day - April 25, 2008

• Arbor Day Foundation
• Wikipedia - Arbor Day
• Plant-A-Tree-Today
• Clean Air Gardening
• Trees Are Good
• American Forests 
• United Nations Environment Programme - Tree Planting

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 23, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Earth Day 2008 is now history, but if you want to continue the pro-environment momentum by celebrating another 'good for the earth' holiday', Arbor Day 2008 falls on Friday April 25, just two days from now.  It's Wednesday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights and computers when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Much is being written by scientists about the positive impact of planting more trees on Global Warming.  But, concern about trees and their beneficial impact on our natural habitats is not new.  Arbor Day was the brainchild of J. Sterling Morton and celebrated for the first time April 10,1872 in my home state of Nebraska.  The Arbor Day Foundation, has a lot of interesting historical information about Morton's quest to plant trees in the plains of Nebraska, as well as useful information about planting and caring for your own trees.

If you want to celebrate Arbor Day - and make a difference for the environment - why not make a Decision to 'go for it' today?   Define what you want to do, educate yourself, and Develop A Plan so you can take action this spring. Why not follow the Five Step I Resolve To . . . System for achieving your dreams resolutions and goals?  There is no better time than the present to learn what you can do to contribute.  Why not consider planting a tree in your yard, or getting involved in local efforts to plant and preserve trees.  If you're looking for historical information about Arbor Day, as ways that you can make a difference, have a look at these useful websites:

Arbor Day - April 25, 2008

• Arbor Day Foundation
• Wikipedia - Arbor Day
• Plant-A-Tree-Today
• Clean Air Gardening
• Trees Are Good
• American Forests 
• United Nations Environment Programme - Tree Planting

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 23, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Buy An I Resolve To . . . Canvas Bag To Replace Plastic!  Visit My Resolution Shop By Clicking This Link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 23, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Celebrate Earth Day! - Day 113

Happy Earth Day!  It's Tuesday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness - and the Earth is recipient of my 'kindness' today.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

Today, in honor of Earth Day, I'm urging folks to think about something that they can do to protect and preserve the environment.  If recycling, Global Warming, and Carbon Footprints aren't part of your vocabulary, but you're ready to learn - why not make a decision to 'go for it' today?  Take your first step and begin educating yourself about what you can do to protect and preserve the environment having a look at these assorted links which provide a wide array of information:

Climate Change -Take Action Today!

• EarthLab 
• Carbon Footprint
• Clean Air-Cool Planet
• StopGlobalWarming.Org
• ConservaStore - Light Bulbs 
• Conservation International
• EnvironmentalLights.com - Light Bulbs 
• Climatecrisis.net - An Inconvenient Truth
• Direct.Gov.UK - Calculate Your Carbon Footprint
• Environmental Defense - Fight Global Warming
• Environmental Defense - 'How To Pick A Better Bulb'.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-Department of Energy, Energy Star.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Personal Emissions Calculator
• FastCompany.com - How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take To Change The World ( FastCompanyComLightBulbs.pdf ).

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network
• World Wildlife Fund 
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

Personally, in honor of Earth Day, I've made a decision to buy canvas bags to replace the plastic bags that I receive at stores.  Since January 1, I've gradually been paring back.  I'm taking that effort one step further in May by purchasing an assortment of bags for grocery and other shopping, so that I can reduce my plastic bag use to 'near zero'.  If you're thinking about doing the same, have a look at the I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear at my CafePress Store.

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 22, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 22, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Today 'New Year's Day' For The Environment- Day 112

Today is my 50th Birthday!  Happy Birthday To Me!  It's a landmark birthday, and in honor of my first half century I'm showing gratitude for all that I have and all that I am by 'giving back' in 2008 and the environment is one of my recipients.  My 'gratitude theme' is my New Year Resolution, my birthday wish, and a Lifetime Resolution - one that's going to be with me for good! 

My message - as part of Monday Tip Day for ways to preserve the environment - is for anyone who has a dream of any shape or size:  You don't have to wait for New Year 2009 to make your dream a reality.  If you're serious, why not make each and every day New Year's Day, a new page on which you can write your life story?  If you need a catalyst - a special day to launch your dream - there are plenty of options.  How about using your birthday as a launching pad? I'm using mine, today, to bolster my resolve to 'give back' in 2008.

Or if, for instance, you want to make the environment a priority in your life - why not use Earth Day 2008 (tomorrow, April 22) as a catalyst and source of inspiration?  Or, you could use Arbor Day as inspiration to plant a carbon-absorbing tree in your yard - Friday, April 25 is Arbor Day.  Or use July 4th as your own personal Independence Day.  There are so many possibilities.  And if you're really brave and motivated, pick any ordinary day - today, tomorrow, the next day . . . to get moving on your dream, resolution and daily goals. 

Stop procrastinating.  Give the boot to the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome' right now.  Make today the day that you 'decide' to 'go for it'.  Then do it.  If you need a bit of incentive, surf over to the I Resolve To . . . Toolkit, and read through my 'System' and 'Tips'.  Give it a go 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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 21, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 21, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Put Away My 'Things To Do List' Today - Day 111

If you're 'in it for the long-haul' with a dream - and you want to avoid 'burn-out' - then 'taking breaks' should be a priority.  Anyone who has ever achieved a dream knows that you must be obsessively focused on making it a reality day after day after day.  The dream becomes a 24-7 pursuit.  When your dream is a passion that generates happiness and a sense of fulfillment, then it truly is worth the hard work and sacrifice.  When you 'love the dream', then it is worth the pain and obstacles. 

In order to be happy and healthy throughout the journey, you have to be willing to set the 'Things To Do List' aside.  You have to be willing to give your head, heart and body a rest - give yourself time to re-charge - so that you can again pick up the pace on another day.  Personally, my life runs right on schedule thanks to my 'Things To Do List'.  My list helps me to stay organized, set deadlines, and achieve all of my business, personal, and creative tasks, one by one, on time.  Unfortunately, when I'm not careful that list begins to rule my life.  I become so caught up in what I'm doing, and what I need to do next, I forget to stop and smell the roses - to just enjoy the moment, simple pleasures, time with friends, and pleasureable non-dream pursuits . . .

I've learned you really have to walk a fine line - pay close attention to your head, heart and body - when you're focused like a laser on your dreams.  The outcome when you don't pay attention - burn-out - isn't pleasant or pretty.  So, on this lovely Sunday, I'm going to take a break.  I hope you can too.  Tomorrow is a new day in which we can pick up where we left off.  Carpe Diem . . . Tomorrow!

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 20, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 20, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Do My Weekend Check-In - Day 110

Happy Saturday!   While I still have a lot on my 'Things To Do List' for the weekend, I'm carving out time to measure progress and brainstorm next steps for my '2008 Gratitude Resolution'.  It's actually a theme for the year - 'showing gratitude for all that I have and all that I am by giving back in four areas of my life': 

1. Walk 60 miles for the Washington, DC Breast Cancer 3-Day and raise $3000. 
2. Volunteer at a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm. 
3. Learn more about how to combat Global Warming and take action! 
4. Engage in PreMeditated Acts Of Kindness.

Every day when I write in my Daily Resolution Diary - and especially on the weekend when I do a more comprehensive Check-In - I remind myself of some very basic, common sense concepts that are 'keys' to success if you want to fulfill a dream, keep a New Year Resolution, and achieve daily goals:   

1. Know exactly 'what you want' and be willing to educate yourself about 'how you're going to get to the finish line' on a continuing, long-term basis.
2. Build a plan, timeline, and milestones that can be updated regularly.
3. Keep a daily journal (write things down, don't rely on memory - it can be spotty).
4. Do daily and weekly Check-Ins to measure progress, brainstorm new ideas, make course corrections, and reward yourself for 'wins'.
5. Work with a buddy who will engage with you as you make the journey.
6. Find a mentor who can advise you about strategy, help brainstorm ideas, and assist with overcoming obstacles.
7. Take a class, or join a club, in an effort add information, inspiration, and new 'like-minded buddies' to your universe.
8. Be realistic about progress - don't set the bar too high.
9. Be patient, passionate, persistent, and positive as you take each small step.
10. Take it one small step at a time, one day at a time . . . for a lifetime.

I believe in leading by example.  I keep all of those concepts front and center and personally practice them each and every day.  Some days are harder than others.  Obstacles do emerge and time (never enough) is an on-going problem.  That's why it's so important to set realistic long-range milestones and specific daily goals. Having realistic expectations reduces frustration and negative feelings, and promotes a sense of confidence, as you complete each step, achieve each goal.  So, how am I doing?  I feel good about my progress in 2008.  'Yep', I can always do better - but I'm happy with my progress thus far.  In a nutshell here's the status:

1. My DC Breast Cancer 3-Day fundraising letter goes out the door Monday on my 50th Birthday. I'm asking friends, family and colleagues for the best birthday gift of all:  to support my walk.  I've also purchased new shoes and socks and am training a couple days each week - an average five-miles each session (training days and distance will increase progressively in May, June, July & August).  Next step is to buy all the gear that I'll need for the weekend and break it in.
2. I've researched area Horse Rescue Farms and plan to sort out the best fit and begin volunteering this summer.
3. Three days each week, I'm blogging about ways to 'Give The Boot To My Carbon Footprint'; I'm educating myself about Global Warming (and in turn making an effort to help educate others); and I'm building new environment-friendly habits into my lifestyle.  It doesn't all happen overnight, but I am making steady daily and weekly progress.
4. Two days each week, I'm blogging about ways to be 'conscious' about the way that I'm treating others.  I'm also striving to be more patient in frustrating situations, and engaging in PreMeditated Acts Of Kindness most days - especially when I'm not feeling very charitable.

Bottom Line: So far so good for the year.  I'm really looking forward to all the 'next steps' because it really is the journey, not the destination that counts when you make 'Liftetime Resolutions' that are with you for good (and not simply tasks that you tick off a list, so that you can 'move on').  Life is so much more enjoyable when you build into your days all the many things that you 'love to do'.  That way you truly can 'do what you love' every single 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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 19, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 19, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Form Habits That Benefit The Environment! - Day 109

Looking for something interesting to do this weekend?  Thinking about doing something to help the environment this Spring?  Why not combine the two!  Earth Day is Tuesday, April 22, and in many communities activities that are both fun and educational are scheduled between now and Earth Day.

Here at IResolveTo.Com it's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

If you're looking for for some simple steps that you can take on a daily basis to reduce your carbon footprint, here's a quick list of 10 that I've incorporated into my daily life, along with some of my favorite websites, which provide a wealth of information:

10 Tips For Reducing Your Carbon Footprint & Protecting The Environment:

1. Reduce use of plastic bags in favor of either 'no bag' or re-usable bags.
2. Walk more, drive less (plan errands/appointments and driving strategically).
3. Plant a carbon-absorbing tree.
4. Turn lights off when leaving a room.
5. Turn computers of when not in use.
6. Launder clothes in cold water as much as possible.
7. Reduce the use of lawn pesticides (Zoysia grass chokes out weeds).
8. Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs with Compact Fluorescents (CF).
9. Use heating and cooling conservatively in the home.
10. Purchase Energy Star rated products and appliances.

Climate Change -Take Action Today!

• EarthLab
• Carbon Footprint 
• Clean Air-Cool Planet 
• StopGlobalWarming.Org 
• ConservaStore - Light Bulbs
• Conservation International 
• EnvironmentalLights.com - Light Bulbs
• Climatecrisis.net - An Inconvenient Truth 
• Direct.Gov.UK - Calculate Your Carbon Footprint 
• Environmental Defense - Fight Global Warming 
• Environmental Defense - 'How To Pick A Better Bulb'.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-Department of Energy, Energy Star.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Personal Emissions Calculator 
• FastCompany.com - How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take To Change The World ( FastCompanyComLightBulbs.pdf ).

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network
• Earth Day - Earth 911
• Earth Day - Wikipedia
• Earth Day - World Wildlife Fund
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - The Wilderness Society
• Earth Day - The Nature Conservancy
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

Arbor Day - April 25, 2008

• Arbor Day Foundation 
• Wikipedia - Arbor Day 
• Plant-A-Tree-Today 
• Clean Air Gardening 
• Trees Are Good 
• American Forests
• United Nations Environment Programme - Tree Planting 

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 18, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Looking for something interesting to do this weekend?  Thinking about doing something to help the environment this Spring?  Why not combine the two!  Earth Day is Tuesday, April 22, and in many communities activities that are both fun and educational are scheduled between now and Earth Day.

Here at IResolveTo.Com it's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

If you're looking for for some simple steps that you can take on a daily basis to reduce your carbon footprint, here's a quick list of 10 that I've incorporated into my daily life, along with some of my favorite websites, which provide a wealth of information:

10 Tips For Reducing Your Carbon Footprint & Protecting The Environment:

1. Reduce use of plastic bags in favor of either 'no bag' or re-usable bags.
2. Walk more, drive less (plan errands/appointments and driving strategically).
3. Plant a carbon-absorbing tree.
4. Turn lights off when leaving a room.
5. Turn computers of when not in use.
6. Launder clothes in cold water as much as possible.
7. Reduce the use of lawn pesticides (Zoysia grass chokes out weeds).
8. Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs with Compact Fluorescents (CF).
9. Use heating and cooling conservatively in the home.
10. Purchase Energy Star rated products and appliances.

Climate Change -Take Action Today!

• EarthLab
• Carbon Footprint 
• Clean Air-Cool Planet 
• StopGlobalWarming.Org 
• ConservaStore - Light Bulbs
• Conservation International 
• EnvironmentalLights.com - Light Bulbs
• Climatecrisis.net - An Inconvenient Truth 
• Direct.Gov.UK - Calculate Your Carbon Footprint 
• Environmental Defense - Fight Global Warming 
• Environmental Defense - 'How To Pick A Better Bulb'.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-Department of Energy, Energy Star.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Personal Emissions Calculator 
• FastCompany.com - How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take To Change The World ( FastCompanyComLightBulbs.pdf ).

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network
• Earth Day - Earth 911
• Earth Day - Wikipedia
• Earth Day - World Wildlife Fund
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - The Wilderness Society
• Earth Day - The Nature Conservancy
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

Arbor Day - April 25, 2008

• Arbor Day Foundation 
• Wikipedia - Arbor Day 
• Plant-A-Tree-Today 
• Clean Air Gardening 
• Trees Are Good 
• American Forests
• United Nations Environment Programme - Tree Planting 

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 18, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Earth Day - April 22, 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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 18, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Be Polite And Mannerly! - Day 108

Manners do count.  On Tuesday, I wrote a column about using good manners as a way to be kind to others.  I want to follow up today with some inspirational quotes and thoughts from others about good manners and politeness.  My point on Tuesday, was that good manners and kindness do rub off.  Personally, I'd rather make someone's day a little happier with good manners and gentle acts of kindness, rather than ruin someone's day by being rude or mean.  You never know . . . if you shower others with kindness they just might pass those 'good acts' on to the next person. 

It's Thursday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

With that . . . enjoy these warm words of inspiration and encouragement from Thinkexist.com, as you meander through your day.

"The hardest job kids face today is learning good manners without seeing any."  Fred Astaire - American stage and motion picture actor, dancer and choreographer (1899-1987)

"Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others.  If you have that awareness, you have good manners no matter what fork you use."  Emily Proust - American authority on social behavior (1872-1960)

"Good manners sometimes means simply putting up with other people's bad manners."  H. Jackson Brown, Jr. - American best selling writer and author

"You can't be truly rude until you understand good manners."  Rita Mae Brown - American Writer (Born 1944)

"You can get through life with bad manners, but it's easier with good manners."  Lillian Gish - American Actress (1896-1993)

"Good manners have much to do with the emotions.  To make them true, one must feel them, not merely exhibit them"  Amy Vanderbilt - American journalist & author (1908-1974)

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 17, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 17, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . 'Not' Be A Litter Bug! - Day 107

Remember the 'Keep America Beautiful' campaign of the 1960's and 1970's?  I was small child when the campaign to promote national cleanliness was launched.  It must have rubbed off - that and strict parents - because I would no more toss garbage out of my car window, or drop trash on the street while I'm walking, than litter in my own home.  While I don't often see anyone toss more than a cigarette butt out of a car window (that makes me cringe every time I see it happen), folks do litter because the telltale signs dot the roadside like dandelions on a pristine lawn.  'Not Littering' is one of the easiest, simplest things a person can do to help the environment, so I'm putting it high on my priority list here at IResolveTo.Com, in an effort to urge folks 'not to be Litter Bugs'.

It's Wednesday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Recently, I began wondering what happened to the 'Keep America Beautiful' campaign.  I started surfing and found the Keep America Beautiful (KAB) Website, which has a great section describing the history and how the concept was launched in 1953 when a group of corporate and civic leaders met in New York to discuss ways to bring the public and private sectors together as partners in a 'national cleanliness campaign'.  According to the KAB Website, in 1953 a National Advisory Council was organized; and in 1956 the first Public Service Announcement (PSA) appeared. 

The KAB Website has a wealth of information, including some original ads which are still very powerful today.  Unfortunately, the the same images of pollution could be shot today alongside some rivers.  In an effort to shine a spotlight on the 'Keep America Beautiful' effort - I'm attaching some interesting links to its website.  Surf by when you have a minute.  And Please . . . If you want to protect the environment,  remember, 'Don't Be A Litter Bug'!

• Keep America Beautiful
• Keep America Beautify History (including original ads)
• Keep America Beautiful Mission
• Keep America Beautiful Historic Print - pollution_print_iron_eyes_cody.pdf

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 16, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

It's Wednesday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Recently, I began wondering what happened to the 'Keep America Beautiful' campaign.  I started surfing and found the Keep America Beautiful (KAB) Website, which has a great section describing the history and how the concept was launched in 1953 when a group of corporate and civic leaders met in New York to discuss ways to bring the public and private sectors together as partners in a 'national cleanliness campaign'.  According to the KAB Website, in 1953 a National Advisory Council was organized; and in 1956 the first Public Service Announcement (PSA) appeared. 

The KAB Website has a wealth of information, including some original ads which are still very powerful today.  Unfortunately, the the same images of pollution could be shot today alongside some rivers.  In an effort to shine a spotlight on the 'Keep America Beautiful' effort - I'm attaching some interesting links to its website.  Surf by when you have a minute.  And Please . . . If you want to protect the environment,  remember, 'Don't Be A Litter Bug'!

Keep America Beautiful

Keep America Beautify History (including original ads)

Keep America Beautiful Mission

Keep America Beautiful Historic Print - pollution_print_iron_eyes_cody.pdf

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 16, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Remember My Manners! - Day 106

It's easy to slip up.  Life is so busy, hectic, stressful, frenetic, harried, fast-paced . . . it's easy to forget a 'thank you'; or to brush past someone on a sidewalk without saying 'excuse me', or to cut someone off in traffic without a 'second thought'.  But busy or not, there is no excuse for bad manners.  In an effort to be 'kinder' to folks, I'm reminding myself daily to pay attention to my own manners because it does rub off on others.  I'd much rather make someone's day a little happier by good manners, rather than ruin a day by rudness.

It's Tuesday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

My parents and grandparents instilled good manners in me, so I have no excuse for bad manners.  They taught me to say 'thank you' when someone lends a hand, or does something kind - no matter how big or small the action is.  When I pass through a door I look behind me to see if someone is following, and hold it open.  When I see someone struggling to merge in traffic, I let them in rather than speed up.  When I walk down the street and admire someone's gorgeous lawn as I watch them work, I offer a compliment.  These small gestures - actions that we all too often take for granted - can really make someone's day.  I know a smile, a kind word or gesture sure makes my day.  I slip up sometimes when I'm in a hurry, preoccupied, or in a bad mood.  I know when I've been rude or have shown bad manners, and I try to do better when I've been 'bad'.

When I moved from Washington, D.C. to Fredericksburg, Virginia, the first thing that I noticed was that folks were friendlier.  They say 'hello' in the store.  They smile and say 'hello' while walking down the street.  I'm the first to admit, while living in D.C., I often walked down the street mostly ignoring folks because it's a big city and it's common to be 'cool' to strangers.  I've had to recalibrate my attitude since living in Fredericksburg - a community that still has a Ben Franklin Store - and has maintained its charm, along with a small town feel even though it's growing.

My point is this:  Being conscious of one's actions, showing good manners, and bestowing kindness on others no matter what environment you're in really does make you feel good.  It can also make someone else feel great.  Why not 'give it a go' today?  Say or do something nice for someone even if it's something as simple a smile, or a thank you.  You just might make that person's day.  And you never know . . . he or she just might pass it on.  Kindness and good manners do rub off.

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 15, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 15, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Remember The History Of Earth Day - Day 105

On April 22, 1970 Earth Day was launched with a grassroots demonstration - a 'Teach-In' - that included 20 million participants nationwide in the United States.  On its 38th Anniversary Earth Day 2008 continues to be an important way to draw attention to the ongoing deterioration of the environment.  That deterioration is being caused by threats ranging from stormwater pollution, to sprawl and devastation of forest land, to Global Warming and Climate Change.  According to Wikipedia, Earth Day today is now observed by more than 500 people and national governments in 175 countries. 

The Founder Earth Day, Wisconsin Senator, Gaylord Nelson, wanted to move the environment from "non-issue status" to the "political limelight".  According to an interesting column written by Senator Nelson: "The idea for Earth Day evolved over a period of seven years starting in 1962."

Senator Nelson went on to describe how Earth Day 'organized itself' in that column, which appears on envirolink.org [EarthDayHistory.pdf]:

"Earth Day worked because of the spontaneous response at the grassroots level. We had neither the time nor resources to organize 20 million demonstrators and the thousands of schools and local communities that participated. That was the remarkable thing about Earth Day. It organized itself. "

Earth Day celebrations are being planned in eight major U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C. on April 20th.  For more information, visit Earth Day Network's Website, which is hosted by the founders of Earth Day.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also has a wealth of information about Earth Day on its Website.  Have a look at the Earth Day-related websites below, and consider the small steps that each one of us can take everyday to combat Global Warming, and to protect the environment - steps as small as turning computers off when not in use, switching off lights when leaving a room, and using energy efficient light bulbs.  Small steps taken each and every day add up to major results over time!!

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network
• Earth Day - Earth 911
• Earth Day - Wikipedia
• Earth Day - World Wildlife Fund
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - The Wilderness Society
• Earth Day - The Nature Conservancy
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 14, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

On April 22, 1970 Earth Day was launched with a grassroots demonstration - a 'Teach-In' - that included 20 million participants nationwide in the United States.  On its 38th Anniversary Earth Day 2008 continues to be an important way to draw attention to the ongoing deterioration of the environment.  That deterioration is being caused by threats ranging from stormwater pollution, to sprawl and devastation of forest land, to Global Warming and Climate Change.  According to Wikipedia, Earth Day today is now observed by more than 500 people and national governments in 175 countries. 

The Founder Earth Day, Wisconsin Senator, Gaylord Nelson, wanted to move the environment from "non-issue status" to the "political limelight".  According to an interesting column written by Senator Nelson: "The idea for Earth Day evolved over a period of seven years starting in 1962."

Senator Nelson went on to describe how Earth Day 'organized itself' in that column, which appears on envirolink.org [EarthDayHistory.pdf]:

"Earth Day worked because of the spontaneous response at the grassroots level. We had neither the time nor resources to organize 20 million demonstrators and the thousands of schools and local communities that participated. That was the remarkable thing about Earth Day. It organized itself. "

Earth Day celebrations are being planned in eight major U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C. on April 20th.  For more information, visit Earth Day Network's Website, which is hosted by the founders of Earth Day.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also has a wealth of information about Earth Day on its Website.  Have a look at the Earth Day-related websites below, and consider the small steps that each one of us can take everyday to combat Global Warming, and to protect the environment - steps as small as turning computers off when not in use, switching off lights when leaving a room, and using energy efficient light bulbs.  Small steps taken each and every day add up to major results over time!!

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network
• Earth Day - Earth 911
• Earth Day - Wikipedia
• Earth Day - World Wildlife Fund
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - The Wilderness Society
• Earth Day - The Nature Conservancy
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 14, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Seek A Measured Pace This Week - Day 104

It's Sunday, a day of rest, and I'm going to make an effort to chill just a bit.  But not just today . . . I'm really going to work this week - and on a more constant daily basis - to inject more balance into my life.  It's a constant struggle.  I have so many projects - creative, work, personal - that I adore . . . sometimes my life becomes dominated by my 'Things To Do List'.  That's not healthy and I know it.  So I'm making serious strides to inject more rest, relaxation and fun activities into my days.

With that in mind, I'm not pondering any heavy thoughts today . . . just a few of my favorite words of inspiration from Thinkexist.  Have a great Sunday!

"I shut my eyes in order to see."  Paul Gaugin - French Painter (1848-1903)

"For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream."  Vincent van Gogh - Dutch Painter (1853-1890)

"Man cannot discover new oceans until he has the courage to lose sight of the shore."  Andre Gide - French Writer (1869-1951)

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 13, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

I Resolve To™ . . . Celebrate My Progress! - Day 103

"That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve it as well."  Abraham Lincoln. 

I truly believe that Abraham Lincoln had it right.  Each one of us is capable of doing great things - living our dreams - if we set our minds to it and are willing to put in the sweat equity that is necessary to reach the finish line.  When I was young, my Mother often told me that I could do anything.  I believed her.  It was a wonderful springboard for everything that followed the rest of my life.  I was fortunate that my family, friends, and mentors reinforced the notion that if you open your mind to all the wonderful possibilities, and truly 'believe' that anything is possible . . . then 'anything' truly is possible. 

It's Saturday - Check-In Day for me.  I like to review my progress on dreams, resolutions and daily goals every morning when do my journaling.  On weekends, when life is a bit calmer, I devote quality time to reviewing my notes, measuring progress, brainstorming new ideas, building plans for future tasks, and giving myself a nice pat on the back for a job well done.  I like to do a little daydreaming, as well; and some weeks, there are 'lessons learned' from mistakes, but rather than stew on my mistakes, I work hard to own them, learn from them, and move forward.  That way, I won't get 'stuck', or discouraged.

Looking back at the first 100 days in 2008, I feel good about my progress.  Yes, I realize I can always do more, or do better, but I'm proud of my achievements just as they are, thus far with my resolution project, my efforts to exercise three-to-five times each week, my 2008 resolution to 'give back', my business achievements, and so on.  Being proud of one's achievements doesn't have to mean that you walk around with a big head or are boastful.  Having pride in one's successes, along with good self esteem, helps to build momentum, motivation, inspiration, and passion for future undertakings.  Those qualities help you to keep moving the ball down the field toward the goal post. 

That's why building and refining a plan, maintaining a journal, doing Check-Ins, and measuring progress are all so vitally important when you're trying to fulfill a dream, keep a New Year Resolution, and achieve daily goals:  they are tools, all part of a system that enables a person achieve over and over again.  Success breeds success. 

Are you ready to take that first step - or the next step - toward a cherished dream?  You don't have to wait for January 1 to have 'Resolve'.  You can make a decision today to pursue your dream, turn it into a one sentence resolution, and make it a reality with daily goals.  That's the I Resolve To Formula For Success.  If you need more ideas, surf over to my 'Toolkit' and click on the System Link, and the Tips Link.  Then have some fun with your dream . . . enjoy the journey!

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 12, 2008
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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

I Resolve To™ . . . Nurture My Baby Trees - Day 102

Happy Friday!  I hope you're heading into a wonderful weekend.  Some great news about the tiny trees that the Arbor Day Foundation sent me for joining:  "They are sprouting tiny leaves!"  I planted them when they arrived back in March, and have been watering them steadily since I put them in the ground.  Unfortunately, one tree was carried off by a naughty critter.  A half-dozen remain, and will hopefully grow big enough to transplant around my property, eventually.  I just love tending my plants and trees watching them grow, and generally getting out in my yard and 'getting dirty'.  If you're like me, and itching to do something for the environment - at the same time you're cultivating your 'green thumb' -why not consider planting a tree in honor of Arbor Day on April 25?

It's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Special days, like Arbor Day, and Earth Day on April 22, are wonderful opportunities if you use them to fuel the fire of motivation and inspiration.  That's been my plan throughout the Spring.  In addition to nurturing my tiny trees, I planted Zoysia plugs in my yard as part of a long range project to reduce the amount of pesticides, mowing, and general maintenance I have to perform.  I'm also planting an eight foot Hemlock; and a bunch of ivy to reduce erosion on a hill in my back yard.  It's amazing - when you make a decision to 'do' something' - like 'live green' - how much fun it can be to educate yourself, then take the necessary steps to make your daily goals a reality. 

If you're ready to take the first few steps - to begin educating yourself, brainstorming, and planning, here are some great websites I have been using in 2008 . . . Enjoy!

Climate Change -Take Action Today!

• EarthLab
• Carbon Footprint
• Clean Air-Cool Planet
• StopGlobalWarming.Org
• ConservaStore - Light Bulbs
• Conservation International
• EnvironmentalLights.com - Light Bulbs
• Climatecrisis.net - An Inconvenient Truth
• Direct.Gov.UK - Calculate Your Carbon Footprint
• Environmental Defense - Fight Global Warming
• Environmental Defense - 'How To Pick A Better Bulb'.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-Department of Energy, Energy Star.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Personal Emissions Calculator
• FastCompany.com - How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take To Change The World ( FastCompanyComLightBulbs.pdf ).

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network
• World Wildlife Fund
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

Arbor Day - April 25, 2008

• Arbor Day Foundation
• Wikipedia - Arbor Day
• Plant-A-Tree-Today
• Clean Air Gardening
• Trees Are Good
• American Forests
• United Nations Environment Programme - Tree Planting

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 11, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

It's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Special days, like Arbor Day, and Earth Day on April 22, are wonderful opportunities if you use them to fuel the fire of motivation and inspiration.  That's been my plan throughout the Spring.  In addition to nurturing my tiny trees, I planted Zoysia plugs in my yard as part of a long range project to reduce the amount of pesticides, mowing, and general maintenance I have to perform.  I'm also planting an eight foot Hemlock; and a bunch of ivy to reduce erosion on a hill in my back yard.  It's amazing - when you make a decision to 'do' something' - like 'live green' - how much fun it can be to educate yourself, then take the necessary steps to make your daily goals a reality. 

If you're ready to take the first few steps - to begin educating yourself, brainstorming, and planning, here are some great websites I have been using in 2008 . . . Enjoy!

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

I Resolve To™ . . . Volunteer My Time! - Day 101

Charitable acts - donations of time and/or money - are common at the end of the year for tax purposes, or in the spirit of Holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.  "Giving of oneself' is personally fulfilling at the same time it helps others.  So, why restrict the 'good will' and 'good feelings' that are generated by 'giving back' just to the holiday season?  Why not make it a weekly, or monthly habit?  One good way to make 'giving back' a habit is to find a cause that you believe in and donate your time.  There are so many worthy causes that are in need of skilled, caring people that you're sure to find one that would love to use your time and talents.

It's Tuesday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

Personally, I have a soft-spot in my heart for animals, so I donate money to organizations that protect animals.  This summer, I also plan to carve out some time to volunteer at a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm.  I've identified a number of farms that could really use some help, so now it's a matter of finding the right match and carving out the time.  I'm happy to offer my professional skills right along side my willingness to get my hands dirty, and lend a hand tending the animals - or 'doing whatever needs to be done'.  I'd love to learn more about horses, so I'm really looking forward to the new experiences. 

If you're ready to lend a hand as well, maybe it's time to do some homework - starting with your local newspaper.  Most newspapers run stories about organizations that are doing useful things for the community, as well as listings of organizations that could use volunteers.  Sitting down at the computer and Googling your favorite cause is sure to turn up some good information and ideas.  Friends, family, colleagues, and churches are other good sources.  Why not give it a go?  To get you started here are some links to websites that offer volunteer opportunity information:

• Idealist.org
• Volunteer.gov
• Network For Good
• Volunteermatch.org
• American Red Cross
• 1-800-Volunteer.Org
• TheVolunteerFamily.Org
• Make-A-Wish Foundation

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 10, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Plan For Earth Day 2008! - Day 100

Earth Day 2008 is just two weeks away! Are you ready to do something positive for the environment?  Perhaps take one small step, followed by another, and another . . . steps that could turn into a full blown habit of protecting and preserving the environment for the long haul?  Here at IResolveTo.Com, we believe in starting with a Dream, turning it into a positive, one-sentence Resolution, and making that Resolution a reality - for life - with Daily Goals . . . one small step at a time, one day at a time.  That's the I Resolve To . . . Formula For Success.  Why not use that formula to do something good for the environment?

It's Wednesday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Spring is here, and that means Earth Day is right around the corner on April 22.  What a great opportunity to motivate and inspire yourself to do something good for the natural world around you!  Why not make Earth Day New Year's Day for the environment?  That's my plan, and it's already underway.  One step that I've already taken this Spring was joining the Arbor Day Foundation.  In return for a small donation they sent me eight tiny trees, which I planted in one of my garden beds, and am nurturing so that I can transplant them in other locations on my property.  I'm also working with a landscaper to plant a large Hemlock in my back yard later this month.  Trees are a great way to help the environment and reduce the threat of Global Warming because they absorb Carbon Dioxide (Green House Gases are measured in units of Carbon Dioxide). 

Why not join me in celebrating Earth Day:  Do some brainstorming and a little research, then roll up your sleeves, and take action to reduce your carbon footprint.  Here are some useful links to motivate and inspire the next two weeks:

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

• Earth Day Network 
• World Wildlife Fund
• The Nature Conservancy
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network 
• The Nature Conservancy - PlantABillion.Org
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia
• World Wildlife Federation Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 9, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Earth Day 2008 is just two weeks away! Are you ready to do something positive for the environment?  Perhaps take one small step, followed by another, and another . . . steps that could turn into a full blown habit of protecting and preserving the environment for the long haul?  Here at IResolveTo.Com, we believe in starting with a Dream, turning it into a positive, one-sentence Resolution, and making that Resolution a reality - for life - with Daily Goals . . . one small step at a time, one day at a time.  That's the I Resolve To . . . Formula For Success.  Why not use that formula to do something good for the environment?

It's Wednesday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

Spring is here, and that means Earth Day is right around the corner on April 22.  What a great opportunity to motivate and inspire yourself to do something good for the natural world around you!  Why not make Earth Day New Year's Day for the environment?  That's my plan, and it's already underway.  One step that I've already taken this Spring was joining the Arbor Day Foundation.  In return for a small donation they sent me eight tiny trees, which I planted in one of my garden beds, and am nurturing so that I can transplant them in other locations on my property.  I'm also working with a landscaper to plant a large Hemlock in my back yard later this month.  Trees are a great way to help the environment and reduce the threat of Global Warming because they absorb Carbon Dioxide (Green House Gases are measured in units of Carbon Dioxide). 

Why not join me in celebrating Earth Day:  Do some brainstorming and a little research, then roll up your sleeves, and take action to reduce your carbon footprint.  Here are some useful links to motivate and inspire the next two weeks:

Earth Day - April 22, 2008

I Resolve To™ . . . Be Kind To Myself As A Starting Point For Kindness Toward Others - Day 99

Are you taking good care of yourself?  Getting enough sleep, eating right, exercising?  Are you making time to rest, relax, re-charge your batteries, spend quality time with friends and family, have some fun?  Those are questions that I'm asking myself - and when the answer is 'no', I'm taking steps to turn the 'no' to a 'yes'.  In my Sunday Column I wrote about 'burn-out' and simple, simple common sense steps that you can take to avoid it.  It also occured to me as I was writing that column, if you're not taking good care of yourself, it's very difficult to be kind, considerate, compassionate towards others.  If you're tired and irritable from lack of sleep, for instance, it might be difficult to shower others with kindness.

It's Tuesday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

This Spring, I'm making a concerted effort to take better care of myself, find more balance in my life - get proper rest, work a little less, take some days off, and plan some fun activities.  I'm going to be a little 'kinder and gentler' to myself, at the same time I'm striving to treat others well.  I hope you will do the same . . . and I offer these warm words of inspiration from Thinkexist.com to set the stage.

"Kindness in words creates confidence.  Kindness in thinking creats profoundness.  Kindness in giving creates love."  Lao Tzu - Chinese Taoist Philospher, 600 BC 531

"This is my simple religion.  There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosphy.  Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness."  Dalai Lama - Head of the Dge-lugs-pa order of Tibetan Buddhists, 1989 Nobel Peace Prize, Born 1935

"Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness.  Every act creates a ripple with no logical end."  Scott Adams, American Cartoonist, Born 1957

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 8, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Use EarthLab Pledges To Track Progress Toward Reducing My Carbon Footprint - Day 98

Are you thinking about curbing taking steps to curb your Carbon Footprint this Spring?  Are you looking for a way to track progress, as well?  Take a few minutes today and have a look at the EarthLab.Com Website.  EarthLab.Com is a wonderful website that is full of useful information about the environment and ways to curb your Carbon Footprint.  As I mentioned in my column last Friday, EarthLab offers a Carbon Calculator that enables you to calculate your Carbon Footprint score - in other words, to measure how much greenhouse gas producing Carbon you're emitting into the atmosphere.  It's a great tool!

It's Monday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'.  In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

The EarthLab Website offers not only a survey to calculate your Carbon Footprint, but also great ideas for 'actions' that you can take, and a system of making pledges, and tracking progress.  You can make pledges in six categories:  Home, Energy, Commute, Travel, Work, Lifestyle.  When you make the pledge, an E-mail shows up later to remind you about the promise.  The EarthLab Website fits like a 'glove' with my resolution project, and what I am trying to achieve with my 2008 Resolution to 'Give Back', as well as all of my other dreams, resolutions, and goals. 

It also utilizes a system similar to the I Resolve To . . . System.  When you know 'what you want to achieve' and 'how you are going to do it' - and set, and follow through with daily/weekly/monthly goals - you have a way in which you can 'make things happen' and 'track progress'.  Accountabilty is key to fulfilling a dream, keeping a New Year Resolution, and achieving daily goals.  With that in mind, I'm going to begin dropping by EarthLab routinely, so that I can remind myself of the promises I have made, and track my progress toward reducing my Carbon Footprint.  Here are just a few pledges I have made, both in my own daily activities since January 1 - and via the EarthLab suggested pledges since I found the Website last week:

1. Plant A Tree:  Planted 8 bay trees from the Arbor Day Foundation; and my landscaper is planting an eight foot Hemlock later this month.
2. Plant Useful Shrubbery:
3. Drive Less:  Working hard to pack as many meetings and errands into my DC trips - more efficiency, fewer miles on Interstate 95.
4. Install Energy Efficient Light Bulbs:  Most lamps and fixtures in my home have them;  need to finish checking all the fixtures during Spring cleaning.
5. Reduce Electricity:   Turn off lights when I leave the room, computers when not in use, etc.
6. Use Less Plastic Bags:  I'm refusing plastic as much as possible, re-using plastic, and have some cool new canvas bags!
7. Do Cold Water Clothes Washing:  Washing my clothes in cold water as much as possible to conserve.
8. Use Clothes Dryer Conservatively:  Full loads, check lint filter etc.
9. Refrain From Dumping Used Cooking Oil Down Drain:  I have a Septic System.
10. Turn Water Off When Brushing Teeth, Cooking, Etc.:  Conserve water.

It's so rewarding when you have a dream, goal, resolution that you are nurturing day-by-day.  I hope you are giving some quality time to your own dreams.  If not, why not start right now . . . what do you have to lose?

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 7, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Take Steps To Avoid Burn Out! - Day 97

My eyes are so often bigger than my stomach . . . but not related to food.  That time worn phrase all too often applies, in my case, to my 'Things To Do List.'  While I do work to keep my daily/weekly list manageable and realistic, it often dominates my life, and knocks balance between my business/creative projects and personal life (i.e. rest, relaxation and fun) completely out of kilter.  I try to keep my short range 'To Do List' one page long, while my long-range list is usually a half dozen pages (it includes plans for all my business and personal dreams and obligations for a year, or more, hence the length).  Alas, I do tend to burn the candle at both ends, it's just my nature . . . I fully enjoy the journey, but I really need to make a more focused, on-going effort to generate greater balance in my life, or risk 'burn out'.

I write about 'burn-out and balance' at various points in the year, as a reminder to myself and others to 'slow down' . . . to 'stop and smell the roses'.  When I get really busy and have too much on my 'To Do List', my personal life - fun, relaxation, friends, family, and hobbies all too often are relegated to 'back seat' status.  I'm a great planner - good at getting things done - but when my life falls out of balance, I know it's time to step back and take a good hard look at all my priorities, and the pace of my life.  When I take that 'hard look' I also brainstorm ways to inject greater balance into my life. 

Rather than simply 'thinking about balance' I plan to take the following steps this Spring to actually 'do something' to create balance:

1. Review my 'To Do Lists', priorities, timelines, deadlines, plans and re-order/re-prioritize (set new deadlines) to allow for more time to relax, 'play', spend time with friends, and have some fun.
2. Say 'no' when I really don't have time for invitations from others (social invitations, extra work, etc.)
3. Use April and May to 'get caught up' with work, home, creative projects - allowing for more time to relax.
4. Stop working through the weekend - take a day off!
5. Stop working at a reasonable hour during weekdays - every work day doesn't have to last 10-12+ hours.
6. Take 'Vacation Days' in April, May, June, July . . .
7. Make a nice long list of 'personal time' - rest, relaxation, fun activities - and do them each week!
8. Schedule more 'me time' during the week!
9. Turn my blackberry off evenings and weekends.
10. Sit down and read a book or magazine - the book and magazine stacks are 'out of control' - time to tackle them!

I often write about 'burn out' in the fall because by September/October, I'm running on 'empty', and in need of serious 'rest & relaxation'.  But rather than just thinking about balance when I'm feeling 'burned out', I plan to use this list, and follow my own advice to incorporate 'balance' in my life.  I close with this quote that I posted last summer as a reminder to myself, and to you if your life is 'out of kilter':

"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

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 6, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Measure My Progress Today! - Day 96

This week we hit one of the year's milestones:  a little more than one-fourth of 2008 has passed.  We've spent 96 days.  That's a lot of time gone by.  Did we use it well, or fritter away precious minutes, hours and days?  Regardless of the answer, there is plenty of time to make good on dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  There is time to learn our lessons and make new promises to do better and try harder.  And there is time to celebrate our victories because they will help to generate momentum and launch us toward new achievements.  Rather than think of 2008 as a glass that is half empty, why not think of the time that we have left in the year - 270 days - as a glass that is half full?  It's a much more positive, uplifting, inspirational way to approach the coming nine months. 

It's Saturday, and that means it's time to Check-In.  I like to carve out a little 'quality time' each weekend, so that I can take a good hard look at what has been accomplished and what tasks are yet to be completed.  As I've mentioned in previous columns, I also journal every morning.  In addition to quenching my desire to write, those sessions help me to quickly review progress, obstacles and next steps in my weekly, monthly and yearly plans.  My journaling helps me to stay focused and organized, and enables me to brainstorm fresh ideas every day.  When the weekend rolls around, I use the ideas culled during the week, to help build short and long range plans, do new research, and make course corrections when warranted.

In 2008 my resolution is to 'show gratitude' by 'giving back' in four areas:  1)  Wallk 60 miles for the Washington, DC Breast Cancer 3-Day and raise $3,000.  2)  Volunteer at a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm.  3)  Learn more about how to combat Global Warming and Take Action!  4)  Engage in PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.

While I can't work on each aspect of my 2008 resolution every day, I do prioritize, and make an effort to move the ball down the court in each area as much as possible.  I've made the most progress in my resolutions to reduce my Carbon Footprint (help the environment) and engage in Pre-Meditated Acts of Kindness (to be more conscious about how I am treating myself and others). I write about the environment three days each week, and kindness two days each week.  That helps to keep me focused, for instance, on 'Green' activities that I pursue each day such as driving less/walking more, and using energy efficient light bulbs, and daily PreMeditated Acts Of Kindness.

I've also done some fundraising for my October 3-Day Walk For Breast Cancer Research, and have researched and bought my first pair of shoes (more to come if they're comfy, as I need several pairs for training and the walk itself).  Next critical step is to map out my training schedule, enter a few races, and to finalize and mail my fundraising letter.  All will be handled in April, moving that part of my resolution farther down the field.  The fourth part of my resolution - volunteering at a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm is fleshed out, as I have found a farm that I would like to help, but I need to make time to do the volunteer work.  I expect that will happen during the summer months, which is fine.

I tend to set the bar high - to keep myself challenged - but I work hard to maintain realistic expectations.  My biggest problem is that there simply aren't enough hours in the day for all the 'To Do's'.  So I prioritize.  I don't beat myself up if I fall behind on tasks, I simply adjust my timeline and calendars, and take the next small daily step in my plan.

And so it goes . . . Working towards dreams, resolutions and goals is very fulfilling.  Why not carve out some time for your own dream today?  Worried that you might fail?  You have more to lose by 'failing to give it a go', than any individual failure in the act of pursuing your dream . . . take that first small step toward making your dream real 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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 5, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Use The EarthLab Website To Help Curb My Carbon Footprint - Day 95

Happy Friday!  It's Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints' . . . Today, I'm highlighting a wonderful Website that I found called EarthLab.  It's chock full of interesting information about the environment, as well as steps that each one of us can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints and in turn, the threat of Global Warming.

In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints.  Consider the huge, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us takes performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

With that in mind, 'you have to to learn to walk before you can run', so I'm spending small chunks of time each week surfing the Internet, reading newspapers and magazines, and talking to friends and colleagues who are 'in the know' about the environment.  I found EarthLab surfing the Internet this week.  Here's a brief excerpt that explains the Foundation's mission:

"EarthLab.com is a leading climate crisis community that provides a practical guide to green living through community interaction, exclusive environmental news, advice from experts and key analysis. EarthLab features a personalized Carbon Calculator, the first Carbon and Lifestyle Calculator of its kind - a unique three-minute survey that generates a carbon footprint score (ECP Score), which members can then save, work to reduce and track their success over time - as a member creates their own personal green strategy. EarthLab was founded by internet community pioneer and social entrepreneur Duane Dahl who maintains the belief that technology has the power to make a positive, long-term contribution to solving the world’s environmental challenges through education and localized analysis. The EarthLab calculator was first presented to a global audience on July 7, 2007 in conjunction with the Live Earth Concerts staged throughout the world. The Carbon Calculator has become the most widely used calculator in the world . . ."

I joined the site and took the survey.  My score was 386, which is higher than the U.S. and Virginia averages (score ranges from 150 to 900, lower being better for the environment).  So my next step is to continue working my way through the site and learn more about what I can do to continue improving my daily habits, and in turn my score! 

The site is very interactive and provides wonderful lists of ideas and pledges that you can make that will help you to curb your Carbon Footprint.  This weekend, I plan to spend more time sifting through all the various 'pledge ideas' and setting some goals.  Why not join me?  Sign up at EarthLab and take the survey . . . if you're not already doing things to curb your Carbon Footprint, it's a great first step.  And while you're at it, don't forget about your own dreams, resolutions and goals.  Spend some quality time on them this weekend, as well!

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 4, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Do My Best To Be Kind, Even When I'm Not Feeling Very Charitable - Day 94

It's Thursday Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

If you're having a rough, trying day - controversy and drama swirling all around you - and perhaps not feeling very kind, even though that's your intention, take a deep breath, know tomorrow is a new day in which you can try again, and keep these simple, but wise words from WisdomQuotes.Com in mind . . .

"Kindness can become its own motive. We are made kind by being kind."  Eric Hoffer

"Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate."  Albert Schweitzer

"Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end."  Scott Adams

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 3, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Use Earth Hour 2008 To Inspire Others To Curb Their Carbon Footprints - Day 93

On Saturday, I joined people from around the world, and turned off my lights, television, and computers for one hour at 8:00 P.M. in observance of Earth Hour.  As part of my Monday 'Tip-Day' Column about ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints', I'm following up on Earth Hour, the brainchild of the World Wildlife Fund in Sydney, Australia.  On March 31, 2007 2.2 million people and 2100 Sydney businesses turned off their lights for one hour - during the first Earth Hour - in an effort to inspire people to take action on Climate Change. 

This year 24 cities participated worldwide according to the Earth Hour Website:

"In 2008, 24 global cities participated in Earth Hour at 8pm on March 29. Earth Hour is the highlight of a major campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to take the simple steps needed to cut their emissions on an ongoing basis. It is about simple changes that will collectively make a difference – from businesses turning off their lights when their offices are empty, to households turning off appliances rather than leaving them on standby."

Earth Hour has its supporters and its critics.  Some critics call it 'silly', while others call it 'empty environmental promises' akin to unkept New Year Resolutions.  Supporters, like me, believe Earth Hour makes a difference, as a way to raise awareness, and to urge people to begin taking small, individual, habitual, daily steps to curb their carbon footprints (small steps, long timeline).  I preach that philosophy here day after day, not only as a way to help the environment, but also as a way to achieve dreams resolutions and daily goals.  Small steps do add up over time, and lead to measurable results.

If you Google Earth Hour News you'll find a lengthy array of interesting pro-and-con stories.  I provide a brief sampling here, that is by no means all-inclusive.  It's simply food for thought with the hope that the more we talk about Global Warming, and strive to educate ourselves - the more we will take individual daily actions to reduce our Carbon Footprints . . .

• "Empty Environmental Promises . . ." EmptyEnvironmentalPromisesAndrewYoungApril08.pdf
• "Coming Out Of The Dark . . ."  EarthHourChicagoTributeApril08.pdf
• World Wildlife Fund Earth Hour Article . . . WWFEarthHourMarch3108.pdf
• Chicago Sun Times Earth Hour Article . . .  ChicagoSunTimesEarthHourMarch08.pdf
• Canada, The Observer Article . . .  CanadaTheObserverEarthHourMarch08.pdf
• Daily Green Earth Hour Article . . .  DailyGreenEarthHourMarch08.pdf
• Huntsville Forester Article . . .  HuntsvilleForesterOntarioApril08.pdf     

In 2008 my New Year Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients.  On Monday, Wednesday and Friday I dedicate my columns to news and information about small daily steps that each one of us - individuals, corporations and government - can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints and, in turn, the threat of Global Warming.  Consider the huge, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us takes small 'habitual' steps - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms.  My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 2, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To™ . . . Pick My Battles - Day 92

On those tough days when you're butting heads with someone, sometimes the best course of action is to simply count to 10 and turn the other cheek.  Other times the best action is to take a stand.  Each one of us has experienced situations in which individuals in the workplace, for instance, are determined to to 'push buttons', elicit a strong response, fight a battle of one-upsmanship, and so on.  Unfortunately not everyone has your best interests at heart and sometimes the safest course is to walk away, while other times the best course is to stand up for yourself.  Sometimes you simply can't find common ground, and you have to face that fact. Good judgment and strong instincts go a long way toward helping to decide 'which way to go' - 'fight or walk'. 

Personally, I've done both, it just depends on the situation.  While I dislike altercations, I'm not afraid to defend myself, or to fight for fairness, honesty, and respect, qualities in life that are of paramount importance in my book.  The question I'm pondering today is 'how to balance a tough workplace or tough work situations with desire to be kind and show kindness toward others'?  Workplace differences are so common, it seems like a worthy topic to consider.

Today is Tuesday, and that means it's Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness.  My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'.  In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.

So, if you want to follow the high road - the road of kindness - what to do when workplace differences erupt?  Digging deep for simple, common sense often works best for me.  When I'm having trouble 'finding common ground' with someone - tracing the steps that 'got us to where we are' is a reasonable way to begin the search for improved relations.  Asking for advice from a trusted colleague is often helpful because it can lend a new perspective.  And Talking things through, in an effort to find solutions that are amenable to both parties, is key to a positive long-term working relationship. 

Personally, 'quitting' or 'giving up' on a situation is my last option, and I only walk that path when I feel I've exhausted every other workable choice.  Sometimes, unfortunately 'moving on' is the best course, but a last resort.  Thankfully, those situations are very few and very far between.  Compromise is a gentler, kinder approach . . . as long as you don't compromise yourself, your values and principles. All food for thought.

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 in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto

Kim M. Simpson - April 1, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved