photo by A Beautiful Mess
As you may recall, I joined Elsie's 4 Simple Goals challenge back in September; I shared about the first one here. Now I'll update you on two more.
The first one was practicing backdoor gratefulness and I tackled this in November for this one simple life. What I found was that I noticed things, reeeeallly noticed. And I'll admit, by the end of November I felt happier, lighter. Problems didn't seem so big or troubling times so sad. I'd made a habit of noticing the good and it just wouldn't quit. I'm no Pollyanna, but I do now take notice of the little things that can often pass by without a second glance. For instance, this morning I opened an organized drawer and felt grateful for seeing what I needed; when I went to get a cup of coffee, I let my fingers feel the smoothness of the ceramic mug; when I went to choose my clothes, I soaked in bright pops of color coming from the accessories in my closet. These types of things would have gone completely unnoticed and unappreciated before November. Making a goal to be grateful every time I walk in the door has turned into finding thankfulness in each moment. I plan to continue doing this.
The other goal was to play a little everyday. And while I can't say I've actually played each day, I have developed playfulness - a willingness to jump in with childlike wonder and fun. I got in the car the other day and actually listened to the One Direction cd my daughter left playing instead of popping it out immediately. Then I read a middle grade novel, just for me. I stuck a tiny fairy in my purse, just because I thought it'd be adventurous to have her along. All this silliness is making me smile. I feel like I'm anticipating something--something good. And I like it.
I have one more goal to accomplish before the end of the year and for me it's not a fun one. It's changing my bedtime routine to an earlier hour. I'm a born night owl, so this is a stretch for me and every time I think I've got it down, I stay up really late and mess up the system. But I've got a plan to trick myself into it I'll share later.
Are you finishing any goals for the year? Or setting up new ones for the upcoming year?
still trying to read 100 books in a year
ReplyDeletedont think Im going to meet this goal
Ive read 85 books so far
Ive meet my walking goal of walking 500 miles in a year and it will interesting what how much is by
Ive also met my goal of being grateful for 1000 things this year and am continuing to count my blessings :)
WOW, 85 books in a year?? That's awesome. I admire your walking goal; that's a creative way to do it, miles in a year rather than saying times in a week. I especially love your being grateful goal. I believe gratefulness is life-changing. :D
DeleteI particularly like the idea of a fairy in your purse just for the fun of it! I also like the idea of embracing sillyness and good luck on the early nights, I try to have lights out by 11 here! makes a difference how you feel. My mum used to say that an hour before midnight is worth two after!! Heather x
ReplyDeleteShe's been a fun diversion. You may see more of her in future posts. :) I'm gonna put your mom's wisdom in my quote book!
DeletePlayfulness is a rare gift I think. It takes practice and discipline to be able to relate to kids and have that sense of humor and patience--very inspiring. I need to work on it more.
ReplyDeleteReally like your thoughts, Jane. I think it does take practice to fight against the business of life to play.
DeleteLoved reading your goals....I think everyone needs to practice noticing the bright sides of life and the little things that make this world so beautiful and it's wonderful that you could do that and now you've inspired me to try everyday to follow this goal, and all of my goals, really.I love that you're trying to be more playful..it definitely makes one happier and I LOVE that you have decided to laugh and loosen up!
ReplyDeleteDuaa
Thanks Duaa. I wish you well on your goals! :D
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