A Year's Reflection

It shouldn't require an arbitrary point in chronology to engage in a moment of self-reflection - every day should be an opportunity to reflect on our lives' progress across a day, month, or decade. The onset of a new year encourages many people to set their eyes on the future. But many people set lofty goals and embrace hope without ever - ever - reflecting on their past failures, successes, and habits.

Shouldn't we ask ourselves why we fail to obtain our resolutions year after year? What past patterns can help predict my future behaviors? Are my goals SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, timely)? Whatever our goals may be, my only advice - if we are serious about changing our lives and producing positive habits for our own happiness - is to write it down. Stick a note on the bathroom mirror or your computer screen. Keep yourself accountable and reflect as often as you can to assess your effort.

Personally, my 2010 has been a roller coaster. I finally graduated with my BSBA, and got my first "real" job (and who knew within a year, I'd be laid off, go through three jobs, and now about to begin another more auspicious career). I looked into the souls of starving children in the slums of India, while diving into an entirely new culture by creating new friendships and barfing out Indian sweets. I helped my family jump start a new wine business. I endured the depression and spontaneity of a quarter-life crisis. What is it about 20 somethings? I reignited old, yet dwindled, friendships I regret for taking granted. I am one step closer to understanding love. I am more at peace with myself - my entire self.