I love words. They're so open to interpretation. Aren't we all? (wink)
So, "evolution" may bring assorted imagery to mind. The reason I put these two words together - evolution and resolution - is that I hope and pray that each year my own self-evaluation (and resulting "resolutions") will contribute to my own evolution! Hope so, at least!
This year I didn't sit down on the 31st with pen in hand, projecting months (or years) into the future. Instead (and it wasn't even actually on the 31st OR the 1st as I recall), I looked at the simple, yet important things I have added to my routines over the last couple of years, to see what else needs to be added.
Some folks may look at projects or major accomplishments when doing a self-review. And, if you look at the bigger picture, I guess getting a book out into the world is something worth noting (if you haven't seen my book yet, please take a look (The Prescription for Joy). In a strange way, for me those things are "check it off the big list" kinds of things. Strategies for self-improvement - evolutionary change - is in a different category.
So - I've finally made exercising a habit now. Of course I could always do more! But, in goal-setting, resolution-making, we know goals need to actually be attainable, correct? So, for now, being consistent and keeping up with the habits I've already established is goal enough for me in that category! I may throw in a little more dancing...and/or "fun" movement (in the privacy of my own home!) in addition to the more "routine" exercise. That's okay - it'll flow as it will.
And - I've made a habit of taking supplements - finally! Oh yes, and I take my lunch to work every day and bring a thermos of green tea, brewed at home. Those are all well-established habits now. Whew! And it wasn't easy creating all those supposedly healthy habits!
So - what are some new resolves for my own revolutionary evolution THIS year?
Mindful eating. Yes, that's got to be it. Mindful eating.
I vacillate greatly from being very conscious to being practically unconscious when consuming consumables. Soaking up a culinary experience is a gift to onesself. Taking time to enJOY every bite, every texture, every distinct aroma can actually contribute to overall satisfaction in the whole eating experience. And this can and usually does contribute to maintenance of a healthy weight. Of course, I'm still working toward my healthy weight. I guess you could say I'm a "weight watcher in recovery." (I'm a lifetimer with Weight Watchers, by the way.)
So, for me, being mindful, intentional, and conscious about my food choices (see section #2 in my book!) is a good thing and something to aspire to on a daily basis. Anyone want to join me?
For some (including me, since I'm a numbers kinda gal - love numbers!), this may include calorie counting. It also may include (as it does for me), actually writing down what we eat. That often helps, too. When you have to put it to paper, it creates more of an awareness of portion size, etc. since quantifying it goes along with writing it down.
So - here's to those of us who are being more mindful of our food and drink intake this year!
The above picture I took is of a sweet little gal (literally), who is obviously enJOYing her cotton candy. Ahhhhh! Here's to true, conscious culinary delight!