Motivational Hoodie

This is my motivational hoodie.
My parents got this for me in Argentina a few years ago.
Apparently is had some kind of relationship with a soap opera or TV show
(Random, I know, but I like it!)
It also helps me remember what my blood type is.
Hmm.  Useful!

I love the beginning of a fresh new year!
Although I can hardly believe it's 2010 (seems like a futuristic, science fictional thing),
I am looking forward to what's ahead and already it has started off quite well. ;)
Like many, I have often made my little list of goals (or what some call "New Year's Resolutions")
I've never really considered myself to be the "goal oriented" type exactly, and always kinda struggled with the whole process.  I'm also kind of a perfectionist sometimes and expect a lot from myself.  Sometimes even unrealistic things, and when I don't measure up I get very frustrated.  So, what would often happen would be that I'd start out really excited about changing and becoming better, and then a few failures later I was kinda done.

Let's face it, checking things off a To-Do list feels wonderful.
Failure, not so much. Often it is not motivating.
But! I guess it all depends on how you're looking at it....

The first sunday at church we had an awesome, motivating little lesson on goals and goal making and I've decided that this year I want to have a different attitude.  This year I'm going to focus on consistency and perseverance.  Essentially.....enduring to the end.

So what if my goal is to not drink soda pop and by the end of the year I still drink it?
(and I really don't even drink that much but sometimes Coke just tastes so good to wash down pizza or pasta!)
Well then, the important thing is that at the very least I'm drinking less than I was before.

I have learned that it's ok if reaching a goal takes time.  Even if it turns out to be longer than originally anticipated.   (That is of course, as long as we are working on it)  Just like they say, "Rome wasn't built in a day".  What matters is taking it one step at a time, It just takes little steps day by day, improving bit by bit.

I like this quote:

"Perfection is a process and not an event, and you will come to appreciate that perfection is an internal matter, not external. It is a process by which you and I learn to eliminate the things in life that are not good, replcae them with the things in life that are eternal in nature, with the objective and thought that perfection is obtainable, but it must be earned."

Elder Russell M. Ballard

We got this nifty little handout about making goals. I hope you'll find it helpful.
1. Get clear on a goal
2. Write it down (very important, so you don't forget!)

3. Asses your goal

   Think of in present tense "I am....", not "I will...."

    Be specific

    Make sure it's achievable and measurable

    Be positive, say "i can do it!"

   Set a time limit

4. Break it down (start small, step by step)
5. Get help (family, friends, prayer)
6. Take action (Just do it! Don't wait.)
7. Keep your goal alive (nurture it, feed it, make visual reminders, etc.)

Oh, back to the hoodie, my goal this semester (inspired by a certain someone) is to get a 4.0.  The last time I actually got a 4.0 was in high school I think.....This semester I'm taking 17 credits (which I also haven't done in awhile) and working 30 hours a week.  I realize that to some people this is nothing, but for me it will be a challenge.

Wish me luck! :)  And best wishes to you and your goal making.

Make 2010 the best ever!!