Looking Ahead: 2015

2014 was certainly a year to remember. I’m always excited on New Year’s Eve — the prospect of a new year, a chance to try something different, switch up the routine, and set some attainable goals!

I’m a goal-driven person. At any given time, I have weekly, monthly, yearly, and 3-5 year goals. (this lovely quirk of mine factored into Johnny’s proposal plan – which was so perfect!)

I used to set generic goals, like “lose weight” or “lose inches”  or “eat better” and found that at the end of the year, I wasn’t really satisfied. It’s possible that I did lose weight or inches, or that I changed up my diet, but I’ve learned over the years that I need to focus and set more specific goals.

With that in mind, the word of the year for me is FOCUS.

In order to help me focus and achieve my goals, I’ve set 10 realistic goals related to items that will help me advance personally and professionally in 2015.

In no particular order:

1) Getting Married – ahhh! I still can’t believe it. I’m excited to get married in 2015. It’s no secret that I’m more excited about getting married than holding a wedding, but I have to admit that visiting our very likely wedding site earlier this week has me more motivated than ever to plan a wedding. I’ve even started a wedding PAGE. Here’s some early thoughts on the wedding planning process.

2) Being a race ambassador for ZOOMA. May will be here before I know it, and this will be my first road race as an ambassador! Join me for a 10K or half marathon on May 30! I hope this will pave the way for more race ambassador positions in the future, too. I’m excited to lace up my running shoes and make 2015 a running year.

3) A fun, successful Dance with the Stars competition. After the program took a break for a year, I’m so glad we’re back at it this January. Dan and I are working hard to provide an awesome song and routine for the event! The event is January 24, so this goal will be achieved early in 2015.

4) Some new travel. In addition to our honeymoon (we’re 90% sure on the place, but I’ll share more later), I’ll be doing some work-related travel to Texas, California, Colorado, Virginia, and hopefully more places! I’m working on a goal of attending 2 conferences this year. On a personal travel note, Johnny and I will likely plan more camping trips this year, too. Maybe I can add a new state to my list? I’ve already visited 28, and would love to add one or two more in 2015! I’d love to visit Maine, and maybe New Mexico!

5) A new fitness certification. I didn’t do any new fitness certifications in 2014, and I’m really feeling the itch! This new certification will be more flexible than my previous trainings, and I can’t wait to share more with you soon!

6) More yoga. In addition to the monthly challenges that I’ve become obsessed with, I’m excited to practice deeper this year. I have goals to reach certain postures (unassisted handstand/headstand, king cobra, scorpion, peacock, and firefly) and continue to practice daily.

7) Reading and writing more. I’ve set a goal to read at least 2 books per month. I’m well on my way – I’m in the middle of a book that I hope to finish before the end of our work winter break. Any suggestions for your favorite books? I find that when I read more, I write more, and I write better.

8) Successful local board-related events and management. I’m all for another successful historic Tea Party block party/street party event. After my first time in 2014, I have some new ideas and ways to incorporate more people and fun into the evening. I can’t wait! (save the date for Friday, May 22). Also, as a member of the Colchester Farm CSA Board, I’m looking forward to helping with a couple of campaigns (like the Greenhouse Project), a new membership drive, and boosting awareness of education programs.

9) Posting more videos and how-tos. I love sharing breakdowns of various moves in fitness classes, and I’ve noticed these have been helpful to my students and virtual students! I did a “Move of the Day” challenge on the Fitness with Aundra page, and want to do something like this throughout the year. It helps me learn and grow, too! I love participating in challenges, and maybe there is an opportunity there to even host a challenge?!

10) Better hydration. With teaching and training so much, I’m super guilty of forgetting to drink enough. I know my health, skin, and focus will be stronger with more water in my life. A gallon a day is the 2015 goal.

Wow. Writing all of these makes me realize just how many amazing things I have in my life. I’m so fortunate to have Johnny, an amazing fitness crew, good health, the ability to travel, and to be involved in local events and boards. I am so excited for 2015 and all it will bring!

Do  you set goals? Share one with me and I’ll help you be accountable for it!