I’m not normally one for resolutions. I was one of the vast majority who would feel inspired to sit down with a blistering hangover and create a beautifully colour-coded listicle of everything I wanted to achieve in a new year, and the promptly forget about it. It never worked for me, and probably never will. The enjoyable part of ringing in a new year for me now is more about the reflection of what went right and what didn’t in the past years, and what I’m looking forward to in the next one. I’m at a stage in my life, at the ripe age of 35, where I’ve curated routines that serve me well and have absolutely shown progress and stability.
Financially I have hit my goals and then surpassed them. I was surprised that I was able to do this because I went from dual-income to single this year. Apparently though I am pretty good at keeping my costs low, and crucially I have set up my auto deposits to keep chugging along without my needing to think about it. I am well on track to afford anything but not everything, which is a comfortable space for me. I still have panics now and again about whether or not I am doing enough, but I am able to talk myself down from that effectively.
Fitness-wise I am recovering from a year of stress and emotional hardship, but I am proud to say that I never gave up on my gym time. It was and continues to be my safe space. My body continued to impress me with what it was capable of, and I intend to follow this path as far as it can go. This past year, filled with so much grief and anguish, demonstrated to me how important fitness has become to my every day routine. It allowed me to get outside and feel normal for a while, even if the workout itself turned out to be nothing special.
Mental and emotional health. Holy shit these took a beating in 2023. The lows I experienced were like nothing I could have imagined. That being said, I surprised myself with a strength I didn’t know I had, which includes not being afraid to ask for help when necessary. I have been going to counselling and chatting with friends and family when I’m in need a pick me ups. After twelve months I definitely feel more stable and strong; I am in no doubt that I am capable of moving forwards and that I can rely on myself even more.
So what am I looking forward to in 2024?
- Running a marathon. My friends and I have signed up for one in May, and while I can’t say I’m excited for the actual event I am looking forward to accomplishing something that I never thought I was capable of. I did a half-marathon in October and it went shockingly well.
- Getting stronger and fitter. I am going to keep working with my trainer to push my limits and become more superhuman.
- Learning more about nutrition and cooking. I have the same four meals every week – it’s time to branch out!
- Being a better friend. In 2023 I needed to lean on my friends so much. I talked so much and didn’t have as much energy to listen. I’m in a better place now and want to be the best friend that I can be to others.
- Dating! Meeting new people! Enjoying life and everything it has to offer me!
- Practising taking more risks. It sometimes takes an effort to get out of my comfort zone, and I’m feeling more ready to try new things, including asking dudes out.
Not resolutions, but exciting things that I find deep enjoyment and satisfaction in. I don’t know what 2024 will bring, but I am welcoming it with curiosity, enthusiasm and open arms.
Secondhand Thoughts 