Also, while I recognize that the idea of synchronizing our personal phase of “starting over” with the “start over” of the calendar is more conducive to changes, I just feel that any time of the year is a good time to change for the better. What it really takes is the genuine resolve to improve ourselves.
On the other hand, having goals inspire us. So this year, I decided to write a list of “goals”, as opposed to “resolutions”. I know, I know, it’s basically the same thing. But for some reason, calling them “goals” adds a more serious, motivative and inspiring ring to it. Haha!
I will list down my goals and at the end of the year, let’s see how I fared. I will indicate a “passing grade” metric, which means that if and when I fall short of my ultimate goal, reaching this level is something I can be happy about already.
GOAL #1: Pull down my weight. Ugh, my weight gain at the latter part of the year has been frustrating. Ever since I started working, I rarely had time for physical activities. Apparently, my daily hurdles event at the MRT isn’t enough. My tummy has gotten too big! I am now about 165 lbs. A few weeks ago, there was a Fitness First booth at the health fair and I submitted myself to their weight test (it was free after all). They say I have to lose 30 lbs in order to achieve my ideal weight. 30 freaking lbs?!?! And in another booth, they told me my body age was 41! The horror! Haha!
So now, for the sake of my body age and my clothing allowance (I don’t want to have to buy new clothes because I can’t fit into the ones I already have), I will have an active goal of weight loss, instead of just nonchalantly cutting my carbs intake.
Passing Grade: 150 lbs
Ultimate Goal: 140 lbs
GOAL #2: Finish a 5k-run. More than ever, I have decided to take running more seriously. Aside from the fact that it is a worthwhile and healthy endeavor, it will help me with Goal #1. Even as I’ve starting jogging many years ago, my level is still that of a newbie. So at the very least, I want to improve my cardio endurance. Right now, I can jog without having to stop for rest for 3 minutes. At the start of the year, my limit was 2 minutes. What an improvement, right?! Insert sarcasm here. Haha! Jogging 1-2 times a week should help me reach my goal.
Passing Grade: Stretch my jogging “limit” to 7 minutes
Ultimate Goal: Finish a 5k-run, and stretch my jogging limit to 10 minutes
GOAL#3: Blog at least 52 times. In 2011, I was able to write 19 posts. It’s even less than my output in 2010. This year, I want to be able to write more because writing is something I actually enjoy doing. My unsatisfactory output for the past couple of years is mainly due to many distractions. And when I started working, I rarely found the time. But now that I have more time in my hands (ever since I moved closer to work), I should be able to at least post something every week!
Passing Grade: 40 posts
Ultimate Goal: 52 posts
GOAL #4: Have better time management. This goal was originally “utilize my Starbucks 2012 planner better”. For years, my expensive and over-rates Starbucks planners have served more as diaries instead of planners. I usually write stuff in it AFTER things happen, as opposed to BEFORE when I’m still planning them.
But now that I have an Android smartphone, using apps to be more organized is more practical. Not to mention more “sersyal”, haha!
Basically, I just want to be able to more productive. I have more time in my hands now and yet I find myself not being able to do as much as I should.
Passing Grade / Ultimate Goal: I actually don’t know how to measure this one. Let’s just say that I’m able to write in my planner weekly, I know that I am using my planner adequately. Also, I would know if I would be able to juggle my time well if I am able to do “more” – and still be well-rested at that! Maximizing my potential is the real goal here, people! Haha!
GOAL #5: Have substantial savings at the end of the calendar year. Currently, my rule of thumb is that I should be able to save 20% of my take home pay. I immediately “set it aside” when I budget my monthly income. But I rarely am able to follow that budget! My gimik or miscellaneous expenses usually eat up a portion of my savings so while I am still able to save some every month, I am not building up my savings as fast as I should be.
Passing Grade: Savings that is worth around 80% of my monthly salary
Ultimate Goal: Savings that is worth my monthly salary
For Part 2, click here.
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