It's a fresh start to a brand new year. A time to wipe away last year's slate and begin anew. Traditionally, it's also the time to make a list of the resolutions — promises to yourself and to others —regarding the upcoming year. In the past, I've made these resolutions in earnest. Some I've kept for the entire year, while others bit the dust by the end of the first week.

 

So this year, I'm trying a different approach. I'm making un-resolutions. These are the things I will try not to do this year.  

 

1. Learn Spanish. Over the years I have bought books, tapes, CDs, and DVDs and even signed up for immersion classes, but still the closest I have ever come to actually speaking Spanish is when my husband and I honeymooned in Mexico and I was able to order papas fritas for breakfast with aplomb. I think I just need to accept the fact that between work, kids and life right now, I don't have time to take on learning a new language. It is definitely still on my bucket list, but this year, I am resolving to table this particular goal so that I can focus on others.

 

2. Lose weight. My scale has been in yo-yo mode ever since I had kids, and every year since my eldest was born I have resolved to lose weight. Some years it's 25 pounds, some years its 5 pounds, but still this resolution has always made the list — until this year. Last year was a good one for me as far as exercise and getting healthy. I competed in a triathlon, ran an 8K, and signed up for my first half-marathon which will occur this March. My scale continues to go up and down, although the swings aren't nearly as great as they used to be, but I just don't want to worry about the numbers anymore. This year I am resolving to stay fit — I will compete in that half-marathon in March and train for a full marathon this November. Oh, and I will also sprinkle in a few triathlons in between. If I can accomplish all that, I will feel great, regardless of the numbers on my scale.

 

3. Do less. I'm a multitasker — I admit it. And sometimes I get myself overbooked when it comes to work, kids and volunteering. In years past, I have vowed to keep my calendar clear and focus on what's most important to me, but one thing I learned last year is that I love all of the things that I devote my time to. I love my job, and the fact that someone pays me to hash out my thoughts like this still blows my mind. There's no way I'm giving this up. I love all of the quirky extra-curricular activities that spark an interest in my kids, so even though it gets a bit hectic at times, I really don't mind shuttling them back and forth to ballet or gymnastics, play practice or Girl Scouts. Speaking of which, I love being their troop's Girl Scout leader. Our troop has blossomed over the years from five at the start to a current roster of 23 awesome young women. I consider it an honor to be able to guide them each week as they complete crafts, service projects, and of course, sell cookies. When all of these things come together on my calendar combined with the time I devote to the PTA, my other volunteer ventures, and various other activities, things get a little hectic. But, honestly I wouldn't have it any other way.

 

So there you have it. My un-resolutions for 2011. How about you? What are your goals (or ungoals) for the coming new year?