This year shall be different. Better.

I have decided to make no 'New Year Resolutions' at this start of a new year. I have very few reasons for this, but I feel they are significant enough to heed.

First of all, I never write them on my mirror where I can see them everyday as you're supposed to. In past years I have typically begun the new year with a journal entry containing my resolutions (one of which is always the journal thing, ironically enough). As you can imagine, this is monumentally successful. Using the information you have gleaned from my previous post, I'm sure you can imagine why. For those of you who need me to give you the answer, it is as follows. Because I'm in my journal so very, very often, you see.

My second reason for not challenging myself with resolutions is this: I really don't feel as though resolutions are challenging enough. They don't make the difference I need them to. Now, I understand it could be said that this is my own dang fault. Yes, that is true; however, allow me to explain myself a wee bit further. But first, understand that this is very specific to myself.

I need something more encompassing than just a few resolutions to make me a better person. This is ultimately the goal of these resolutions, is it not? To make yourself better. Looking back at previous attempts at resolutions I have made for myself, there are always the pretty generic entries. The resolutions that everybody and their dog make. Resolutions about school and education, fitness, social lives, balancing responsibility, family and friends, etc...

I feel like to really become a better person, to cover all my bases, my list of resolutions would be quite long and I'm sure I would forget about the really important stuff. I don't know about you, but a list with a million things I need to work on to be better would be quite depressing.

Instead, this year I have chosen a theme. Or motto. I don't really know what to call it right now. My mind went blank... Anyhoo, this way, there is one thing on my list and I can apply it to everything I do. I feel good about this.

My theme this new year is based on a BYU Devotional given by Elder Holland in January 2009. I have heard it referenced in many situations pertinent to myself within the last few months. I don't feel that this is a coincidence. The talk is entitled Remember Lot's Wife. It is all about not looking back. Moving forward with confidence. For those of you interested, here's a link:
The talk

I need to do this. To not let my past define who I am, but to learn from mistakes I have made and become the best person I can be.

Needless to say, I am excited for this new year. To see where life takes me.

I do love a good adventure and I am determined to make this year one of epic proportions.