Resolution-Schmesolution
Posted on January 7, 2010 by FoBaM-Jamie
Each year as the first of January approaches, I wrestle with the same dilemma – to make a resolution or not. And, if I do make one, which one should I make? The list of things I’d do to improve myself and my life is, frankly, endless. How can I choose one endeavor over another? And just how effective are resolutions, anyway?
The word “resolve” brings to mind the idea of a strong and committed individual, capable of moving mountains and bringing about miracles (the job description of most moms I know). On the other hand, even the best intentions can fall by the wayside, leaving the “resolute” individual with feelings of failure and guilt (something most moms already have plenty of, right?).
So, the gang here at FoBaM is curious about your resolutions. We’d like to play a little game. We’ve started the poll below, but we’d like you to finish it. You can choose up to three of the options already listed, or leave your own resolution in the comments below. We’ll add new items to the poll as we see trends in your comments, so you can vote on those as well.
Thanks for playing and here’s to a fabulous New Year!
[poll id="23"]
Oh, and – in case you’re curious – here are a few of our resolutions:
- Eat dinner sitting down (all of us!) and refrain from answering the phone while we’re eating. (Sub-resolution: drop the guilt when I choose a glass of chardonnay and a handful of nuts for my dinner.)
- Pick my battles more carefully. If my daughter wants to do her own hair, I’ll let her … even if her part looks like the Great Wall of China.
- Say “yes” more often when the kids beg me for “just five more minutes of” something,
I have also included three Resolutions just about ME this year, which is the first time I have ever done it. I only hope I don’t make up an excuse to be busy to acheive them.
The normal resolutions, smoke less, lose 15 lbs. But also, and very importantly, to get my 2 (soon to be 3) year old POTTY TRAINED. Which will make me diaper free for the first time in 5 years!!!! (I’m slightly excited by this prospect in case you couldn’t tell.)
We hope to pay off half of our debt this year. And by the end of 2011 be completely debt fee. This is our ONE and only resolution!!
My new years resolution? To become a yogi so I can beat my 55 year old father at twister. You wouldn’t believe the moves he can do after 15 years of yoga.
@Melony – Good for you! When you are happier, it will make all those around you happier. Think of your investment in yourself (time or otherwise) as an investment in the happiness and health of your whole family.
@Elizbeth – All good goals … and I can totally relate to the potty training one. I only have one daughter, but I was ecstatic when she was finally done with the diapers. Changes your whole life, doesn’t it?
@Monique – That’s a REALLY good one! I wish I could even put that one on my list, but I know I’d be setting myself up for failure. Probably good that you are staying focused by only giving yourself one goal … smart move!
@Ruth – As someone who studied yoga for years and is now trying to get back into it after a few years without (a sabbatical that began when I had my daughter … I spent the first 14 weeks of pregnancy seriously sick and never quite recuperated my yoga practice), Yoga rocks. There’s nothing quite like it for combining physical and mental practices. When I was practicing regularly, I felt better than I ever had and also gained a clarity of insight and thought that was very valuable. Hmmm … maybe I should copy your resolution!
I love your website and blogs and share them with my FB mom/friends. I read them consistently. Most of what you post is for moms with little ones. I have a son who is 34 years young. Although he is very independent and lives on his own, I’m still a mom and sometimes issue arise and I don’t have anyone to share my feelings.
Does anyone know of any websites for us moms with adult children?
@Gladys – Thanks for your kind words. We’re so glad you’re enjoying the site and the blog. I haven’t come across any Web sites specifically for the moms of grown kids, but we have noticed that there are many moms of adult kids in the Fans of Being a Mom community and we hope to share some “grown-up mom” thoughts with you very soon. Stay tuned & thanks so much for your inquiry. We love hearing from you about what we’re doing right and what you’d like to see more of.
My resolution is to help as many people as I can to gain control of their health and finances as I have done. Very exciting!