Why resolutions are great
- January 1st, 2008
I’m a resolution guy. It wasn’t always this way. Recently though, I’ve come to the conclusion that I didn’t really understand their true value. I used to think that the sole goal of a new year’s resolution was to fulfill it. So, often out of fear that I’d fail, I just quit making them.
Then, it occurred to me that maybe there were a bunch of other benefits to making these things: For example, (1) wouldn’t it be valuable, in and of itself, to go through the process of succinctly naming intentions with measurable outcomes? (2) Also, wouldn’t acquiring the motivation to get started be valuable too? (3) A different motivation is at play too. Isn’t it powerful (and even a bit exciting) to put yourself on the line by telling others your intentions? Plus, (4) the refining experience of having to slow down long enough to figure out what you’re made for this year is always nurturing. On a personal level, my favorite value of all is that (5) resolutions are declarations of my move to play rather than watch from the sidelines. With a limited set of days in front of me, I’m don’t want to waste any more time in my life.
Do I intend on completing my list of my 2008 resolutions? Absolutely. Is this list comprehensive? Not at all. Will I get all bent out of shape if I fail at any? Nope. I’ll just re-up and get back in the game.
Here’s my partial list if you wanna encourage me!
• I’m going to make at least 100 quality blog posts in 2008.
• I’m going to run, bike, swim, surf or some other athletic effort, rain or shine, every day of 2008.
• I’m going to have a getaway-day with one of my kids every month of 2008.
• I’m going to compete in one triathlon in 2008 even if I have to do it by myself.
• I’m going to keep a log everyday in 2008 of at least the following categories: my weight, my exercise, food I ate, drink I drank, blog post I made, how often I checked email mindlessly and how much I surfed the internet without intention.
What’s on your list?
Keep it simple!
-Dane
PS … Here’s to a fantastic 2008!





January 1st, 2008 at 9:36 am
Come join me and do Wildflower Triathlon at Lake San Antonio in May, one of the most popular races in the US. Thousands of people go and camp out. Perfect for your RV.
January 1st, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Great Resolutions Dane! I did a tri-sprint this year and am thinking about a 1/2 Iron Man…crazy!
I really like the last one and think I will adopt that as well!
See you in Vegas…yes I am already looking forward to WPPI :)
January 1st, 2008 at 8:54 pm
I’m encouraging you! I need you to help me be accountable for my #1 resolution, and I’ll point it out to you if I see your blog post count slipping :)
January 2nd, 2008 at 12:14 am
Thanks for teaching me about RSS feeds! I’ve spent some holiday free time surfing your archives. Love seeing the pics of you & the fam.
Your ‘be intentional’ minute really resonated with me as that’s been my desire/constant struggle this past year, and is on my list of resolutions for 2008 too. (Also loved the outtakes, especially the all-too-familiar kid interruptions.)
I’ll look forward to your 100 quality blog posts in ’08!