My 2014 Resolutions

It's officially that time of year (you know, when the year is about to end) and people across the country are frantically trying to make resolutions for things they wish to accomplish in 2014. Research at the University of Scranton found that only 8% of people complete their resolutions. As you might expect, this year's top 10 are as follows:

1. Lose weight
2. Get organized
3. Spend less, save more
4. Live life to the fullest
5. Stay fit and healthy
6. Learn something exciting
7. Quit smoking
8. Help others in their dreams
9. Fall in love
10. Spend more time with family

All of these on the surface are much easier said than done because all of them are actually pretty vague. One of the reasons why I believe most people find it difficult to achieve these resolutions is that they don't break their hopes and dreams into actionable, SMART goals. In other words, they are not Specific enough, there is no plan for Measurement, they are so vague that they become unAttainable and unRealistic, and there is no Time limit on when they would like to see results.

When I hear stories of resolution making and I see articles about how people failed, it's easy to dismiss this trend as just a cliche part of our society. But, I still believe that resolutions are a great way to give yourself a fresh perspective and sense of self. For me, it's less about making some vague "I want to lose weight" or "I want to manage my money" statement. I have a running list on my fridge of all the things I want to accomplish this year. I can always add to it, however there will be no taking away from it because that's cheating, right?

A few of these are a little more vague (get promoted, pay off car) but this is mainly because they don't need explaining on my fridge. There is a set date at work when promotions take place so no timeline is needed. I either get it or I don't. As for my car, I don't really care when I get it paid off, just as long as it happens in 2014. I will consider 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2014 a success. Also, both of these encompass popular resolution 3.

Most of my 2014 goals tie back to new experiences I'd like to have and will give me a reason to do something new with the boyfriend, friends and my dog. These primarily encompass popular resolutions 4, 6 and 10, plus 9 when I do some of these with my boyfriend. I believe that any time you add new experiences to a relationship and see the world together you are strengthening your bond more than you had the day before.

In terms of things to do with Woody, the dog parks are the obvious activities. I sadly haven't taken him to any of the nearby dog parks, even though I said I would do so last year. Now that it's on my fridge and on the internet, I am 100% accountable. Other Woody-centric goals include blogging once a week (because I blog about him, in case you missed that), exploring three different Metroparks and running at least three races. Woody can join me in the Metropark adventures, and he is a great companion when I am training for races. Also, one of the 5ks I definitely plan to do is the Berea ARF Monster Mutt Dash. For those who are unfamiliar with the Berea ARF, they are one of Ohio's largest No-Time Limit Animal Shelters. Woody actually would be able to run this race with me, something that I'm sure will be a highlight for him.

So there you have it, my goals for 2014. I'd love to hear your resolutions, especially those that are dog friendly!