It’s that time of year again —  A time to look back at the past year and plan for the New Year ahead.  As always, I look back with a bit of dismay that I did not fulfill all of my resolutions in 2014, so I decided to look at the past year with a new perspective.  Six “successes” that weren’t on my 2014 resolution list:

1. Tried something new

Truth is that I only participated in the yoga class twice, but I gave it my best shot.   With that said, I did buy a Yoga For Beginners video, so 2015 is off to a more limber start.  Even if you don’t stick with an initiative, give yourself a pat on the back for trying something new.

2.  Learned to love kale

Kale is the hottest healthy food, and I now love the taste of a kale Caesar salad, which is my go to food when I don’t feel like cooking.  Unfortunately, I didn’t lose the unwanted pounds as documented on my resolution list, but I did learn to do something healthier for my body.  Don’t overlook the small things, when making changes.  They can have a long lasting impact.

3. Reconnected with old friends

With the time constraints we all face, it can be a challenge nurturing friendships, and I’m pleased that I was able to reconnect with some friends throughout the past year.  It’s important to remember that laughter with friends who have known you for years helps ground us no matter life’s circumstances

4. Admitted failure

After years of having a gym membership, I finally admitted that I just don’t have the motivation to work out at the gym after a long day of work.  Face it — with my limited participation and the monthly fees, each workout cost me a few hundred dollars.    So I took the money saved and purchased a good elliptical so that I can workout at home.  Sometimes admitting failure opens the door to new opportunities.

5, Opened myself to new opportunities

Speaking of new opportunities, I didn’t even have “giving back” on my list of resolutions, but I learned that I have a high platelet count, which means I can help three people in need each time I donate platelets.   With my busy schedule, it can be a challenge even scheduling a doctor’s appointment, but I’ve made the time to be there for those in need.    So give yourself the opportunity to give back, and if the way in which you tried to give back doesn’t leave you feeling reenergized than go to “admit failure” and “try something new”.

6. Revisited a former passion

Growing up I enjoyed doing needlework, but raising children and working full time didn’t give me the time for it.  On a whim I purchased a few needlework patterns and now I’m able to create something unique and fun.    Now I’m able to needle my way out of the daily stresses.

So when you look back at 2014, just identify a few things that made the year special for you and don’t focus on the goals you didn’t meet.    Life is rich with experiences, so enjoy.   With that said, I’m still going to write out my resolutions for 2015, and hope for a few surprises along the way.

Happy New Year!!!