It’s the start of a new year and while I’m not really one for resolutions, I do like thinking about what I might do differently this year. Now that I’m not working 9-5 anymore, I’ve got a lot more time to be introspective and think about these things.
I’m not talking about revolutionary changes, just a few small things I could change to make a difference in my life. It’s hard to teach this old dog new tricks, but I reckon these few things are not much of a stretch. So let’s go.
- Act immediately more often – I have a black belt in procrastination. Things can always wait – I’ll tidy up later; I’ll clean the bike tomorrow; the floors aren’t that dirty…. This year, If I see it I’ll do it. I know having a “system” helps me, but this year I’ll maintain one that works for me.
- Embrace my stage of life more. Personally, I’ve had a rocky couple of years, a bout of depression, a marriage breakdown, retirement, and moving house a couple of times. At times it’s been a struggle, but good friends and the bike have seen me through. This year, I feel that all of those big changes are behind me and the path ahead is clear and can be whatever I make it.
- Think less, ride more – worry less about my power on the bike (or lack thereof), perceived fitness, and just ride my bike for fun. Cycling is not my job. I’ll accept that as I age, I’m not getting faster. just embrace rule #1 – It must be fun.
- Be more open to people – I’m naturally introverted. People who meet me often find this hard to believe. Every year I get to meet and spend some time with amazing people. I say no to a lot of things because people exhaust me. I know at times I can appear aloof and stand-offish This year I’ll be a little more open and say yes a bit more often.
- Yoga – this year I re-found my yoga practice and I was reminded how much I enjoy it, and how good it is for me physically and mentally. This year, I’m going to find somewhere local to keep my yoga practice going… (bonus goal – master crow pose).
