Getting Back on Track

I'm finally, finally approaching the end of what will hopefully be the hardest semester of my graduate school experience. As my workload begins to ease up a bit (and, if I'm being honest, the amount I care begins to dwindle), I'm trying to pick up the pieces and figure out how I got off track and lost sight of the very simple goal I set for myself this year. I'd like to say that I'm trying, but a lot of days... I'm not. I just do what I have to do, and not always very happily (if you asked B, he'd probably tell you that I've been whining - a lot). So.

So I'm making some changes. My usual traipsing about the internet gave me an unusual amount of inspiration, and I've decided to:

1. Start my second attempt at a Whole30 - the first time I only made it to around day 20. (inspiration found here and here)
2. Return to exercising. And not a moment too soon, because the PMC will be here before I know it. (inspiration found here, here, and here)
3. Revamp my efforts to practice gratitude. (inspiration found here, here - especially beginning at 5:30- and here)
4. Give up tv. Because this was me:

   

   via someecards

I'll let you know how it all goes.

Resolutions - The Obstacle is the Path

For a long time it seemed to me that real life was about to begin, but there was always some obstacle in the way. Something had to be got through first, some unfinished business; time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. 

~Bette Howland

I love resolutions. I love the idea that the new year brings with it a clean slate and so much potential. Usually, I spend a fair amount of time thinking about all of the ways the next year can be better. Considering what steps I can take to work towards being my best self. It's great -- in theory.

In reality, I end up with this oppressive idea of what my life "should" look like. I'm not sure where that picture or ideal comes from. My head? The movies? Society? Regardless, the result is that I end up focusing on what my life is not. How I fall short. The result isn't exactly a fount of motivation. Instead, I end up feeling as though I won't be content, or happy, or feel like my life has really begun until I've reached this arbitrary idea of what it should be.

So. This year I only have one resolution:

1. Practice Gratitude. To take note of all of the wonder, beauty, joy, growth, love, and happiness in my life. To push away the "shoulds" and be content with what is.

Because, afterall, the obstacles may be the path itself.