Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Wonderful Wednesday & New Year Goals

Today is one of those days. A good day. And there is no particular reason I can pinpoint that makes it so. Just loving life. I'm finding myself busier than ever but loving every minute. Which brings me to a few goals I've set for myself this year. Last year was the year of learning to love myself. For the most part I was there but self-acceptance is something that can always use a little tweaking. This year is about facing fears, meeting challenges and attempting to try new things or revisit old loves.

I've already made major head way in facing one of my biggest fears. As hard as this may be to believe...in fact, I'm embarrassed to be admitting this...I can't really swim. While that is not totally true, I never learned the correct way. My mother is deathly afraid of water and swimming lessons were the last thing on her priority list. I did teach myself to tread water and do the basics. But for some reason, I never learned to swim with my face in the water. Maybe it is a carry over of my mother's fear. Part of me believes it is the loss of control I feel when unable to breathe. Whatever it is, I have an enormous fear and respect for water. But this year is my year to get my face wet. Sunday, my dear friend, Karen, met me at the gym and spent over 2 long and tedious hours helping me. The first 20 minutes were pure torture for me and most likely for her as well. I had a major panic attack. It was a combination of fear and self-reproach for being 44 years old and having never mastered these skills. Think about. How many women my age are unable to swim??? A few white-knuckle moments on the side of the pool and several unmentionable four-letter words later and I was fine. I dressed myself down, threw a little fit, took a deep breath and decided the water wouldn't get the best of me. I made more progress than expected that day. We are meeting again tonight and I can't wait! I'll keep you posted on this challenge. My goal is to learn and learn well in order to swim once a week for fitness.

Which brings me to my other goals. They center around becoming more physically fit and enjoying the great outdoors. I've increased the intensity and duration of my weight workouts and my cardio sessions have been amped up as well. But this is the year to add other things to the mix. As I mentioned, swimming is one. When the weather breaks I plan to add biking, running and hiking. I've found a possible biking partner and a running group. Biking is an old love. Running is something I've always wanted to do. And my area offers wonderful hiking trails.

Lots of other changes are on the horizon for me both personally and professionally. I'm strongly considering getting my masters in accounting and I'm currently researching schools and costs. The plan is to start in March if all goes well and I pass the GMAT. Wish me luck...it has been ages since I took a standardized test. Personally, big decisions need to be made regarding a possible move. Should I decide to stay where I am, many changes will be required to make it happen. Lots to ponder. Lots to decide. But I'm ready to face it all.

I know this is a very personal post. But I'm a firm believer in putting goals in writing. It makes me more accountable. So dear friends, feel free to hold my feet to the fire. How about you? Any specific goals or resolutions? Please share.

xoxo L

10 comments:

  1. kudos to you girlfriend! I'm not much of a swimmer either...so I can totally relate! I'm proud of you! You have inspired me to get my SHIT together...so to speak! Not so sure about putting it out there for EVERYONE to see...but...I'll think about it :o) Take care!

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  2. Hey there! Happy New Year! Good luck on your swim lessons, It would be a great thing to learn, and take it slow, remember little kids can learn it over time!

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  3. Want to know something? I'm no good at swimming either. Want to know something else? I went to a college that required me to pass a swim test. I did what I had to (I still think I was passed based on some pity -- it took me a year and a half to get through a semester course), and did swim with my face in the water, but I haven't been back in the water since I graduated. So I know just how HUGE this was for you, and just want you to know that you are simply amazing for facing your fear!

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  4. I have not come for a visit in a while..... I missed you! Wow....what a wonderful list of goals...You can do it....I have total faith in you. I love to read your wonderful posts. Your words speak to me more than you will ever know. Hugs, Amy

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  5. yay for goals and for the good ol' internet holding us accountable! ;) I say GO LISA!!

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  6. Love all the goals that you have set for yourself....I know that you can do it and I will be right beside you to encourage you!!!

    Have FUN this weekend!!!! You must call when you can!!!! Love ya sweet friend...."-)

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  7. Awesome! My resolutions are lame compared to yours. Work on better posture and have sex more with my husband (HA!! TMI right). Someday I will focous more on myself. I am just not at that point in my life.I am trying to do more things for myself though whether it is a night out are a few minutes in my scrap room. I don't think that is a resolution though as much as neccesity.

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  8. Good for you!! The water isn't so bad!! I am a self taught swimmer as well, and most of the time i love it, although I would rather be on the lounge chair next to the pool soaking up the sun!! LOL! Good luck on your goals, Lisa, they are not hard ones to accomplish, but ones that take time and strength and you have the strength my friend!!!

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  9. You go girl, I'm so proud of you!
    Blessings,
    Kim xXx

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  10. Hi Lisa! My computer has been down and I haven't been able to visit my favorite blogs so I am so happy to be up and running again and visit you! What a wonderful set of goals, I know you will accomplish them all. I used to do alot of mountain biking when I lived in WA state. I bet there are alot of awesome places to ride where you live! Have a wonderful day! Hugs, Annette

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