Be it Resolved 2007 edition
I have three New Year’s resolutions this year. The first is that old standby, get in better shape. That’s pretty vague, right? If there’s one thing I remember from my behavior modification class it’s that you have a much better chance of succeeding at a more specific goal. So how about this formulation? Be it resolved that I shall reduce my calorie intake to approximately 2000 calories per day and find time to exercise a significant amount (at least a three mile run) at least once per week. That sounds do-able.
Two: Become a better writer. I feel like writing is a skill that has never come easily to me. Like any skill, it can only be improved with practice. Be it resolved that I shall write one significant piece (a story, essay, or other piece of writing) each week. These do not have to be in any way publishable, they should be rough drafts. The idea here is to get better at the part of the process that involves translating the ideas from mere thoughts to written words.
Three: Take time away from work. Over the last semester I learned what it was to really immerse yourself in your work and make it the top priority in your life. Indeed, there were lengthy stretches of the semester where I did little but work. It feels good to do that, but only for so long. Be it resolved that I shall take at least one day per week and set it aside. On that day I will not do anything to directly advance whatever I am working on for the other six days of the week (which will usually be schoolwork). Additionally, on that day I will actively try to slow down my life, by taking time for contemplation. Look, I invented the Sabbath.
January 5th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
Nathan,
What a good process making resolutions is; thanks for sharing yours. To take time to reflect is so important and happens so infrequently when we are meeting everyone else’s expectations and not honoring our own. It is exhilerating to find your work so interesting that it absorbs you, but not healthy to ignore your need for balance. I aplaud your decision to leave one day each week open to other activities. And I find your writing clear and pleasant to read—I will read anything you write.
Love,
Mom
January 13th, 2007 at 8:59 pm
I agree pretty much with everything your mother said above, I’ve always very much enjoyed your writing, and have always been impressed with the polish and readability of your blog entries (this is in contrast to mine which are usually poorly organized and full of typos and awkward sentences). Perhaps on your day off each week, if it coincides with one of my days off (which vary from week to week), we can play something or other on Xbox Live? Anyway it’s always good to hear from you, glad you’ve got such a good plan for your upcoming year.