“This year, rather than make a long list of futile resolutions, I shall simply seek to summon my resolve.”
As a noun, resolve is defined as “fixity of purpose.” If you have to unabashedly fling yourself into the year ahead, why not strap a big old parachute of steadfast purpose to your back?
After all, this year promises to test my resolve in many ways. New baby, old family dramas, a return-to-work, the dreaded “terrible twos” — the list goes on. But, from here on out, I say “test me all you want.” My resolve will see me through the dark days, the sleepless nights, the depths of doubt. Rather than crumble, my resolve will only draw strength from the sky-high eyebrows of my critics — especially the one in the mirror. My resolve will be my determination to wake up and to own the day. (Okay, maybe I’ve been reading The Hunger Games too much lately, but you see what I mean: It’s time to get to know my inner bad-ass.)
When I’m faced with the trials of the delivery room, the people in my office, a harebrained idea to run another half marathon or the ear-piercing tantrum of a [really cute] snot-nosed toddler, I will summon my unwavering purpose and forge on, strong and brave. It’s scary to say that, but no scarier than a laundry list of so-called regular resolutions such as “I’ll lose 15 pounds” and “I’ll quit drinking wine on Wednesdays” and “I’ll always write thank you notes on time.”
For now, it feels invigorating to lay claim to the notion that even little old me has a purpose. While it is presently undefined, amorphous, and downright blurry, my thinking is that, by spending a year challenging myself to be mindful, strong and brave, a clearer purpose and a greater sense of balance will emerge.
Besides, spend some time surfing and you’ll soon see there’s a whole business of creating new year’s resolutions for other people. Why not just let other people do all the heavy lifting and go along for the ride, fixity in hand? When it comes to putting myself first and establishing balance across my mind, body, and home, here’s who I’m taking a look at this year:
What did you resolve to do this year? Who is giving you inspiration?
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