2014 was one of the most dramatic years to date. I couldn’t be more excited to see where 2015 will take me, however. I’ve been reading far too many blog posts about new year’s resolutions and what’s too cliche and what’s seemingly acceptable goals for twentysomethings like myself. I’ve decided to say screw those people who tell you your dreams are too big or, even better, too small. So, this year, there are some things I’d like to accomplish. Granted, I probably won’t complete all of them and many might change a long the way. Nonetheless, here’s to a new year and to setting personal goals because no one knows you better than you.
1. Write more. Sure, every blogger’s resolution is to be more dedicated and steadfast about keeping her site up-to-date, but that’s not even my goal here. I’ve been writing since I was fourteen and it’s the best release I can find. While I need to post more consistently because I want to gain more publicity for my site, I’m okay with more personal writing too that doesn’t get posted. It’s surprisingly refreshing and relaxing.
2. Tone. I’m not trying to lose weight, I’m just not quite satisfied with the look of my body. Naturally, I am conforming to an extent, but I think if I could tone myself, train and build muscle, and stretch daily, I would look and feel better overall. I did receive an exercise bike for Christmas and put in blood, sweat, and tears putting it together on Christmas Eve, so here’s to actually putting it to use.
3. Spend money. Saving is key, but I’m quite careful with my money. Currently, I am coming at you from my brand new HP laptop. It was time. I’m not going to go crazy and blow my savings, but a year’s worth of working three jobs should make 2015 my year to indulge and treat myself when I want to.
4. Go blonder. In 2014, I highlighted my hair for the first time ever. I have always said I would never be anything but a brunette, but I’m feeling a good change coming my way and for once I’m not too afraid of it. Hair is hair is hair; I can do whatever I please with mine and it will always be fixable.
5. Travel domestically. I’ve spent the last two summers abroad and broadening my horizons, but I’m finding that I’ve missed quite a few beautiful places right here in the states and even in my own city. I started 2015 on the beaches of Florida with someone who makes me the happiest I’ve been in years. I’m definitely trying to see places I’ve never seen before that are right under my nose with people I care most about.
6. Do cute things because I can. For the first time in 2014, I sent Christmas cards out to my close friends and family through a special deal I got through a blogging connection. I used Tiny Prints and the service was perfect. I got these adorable little cards at quite an affordable rate, and I know little gestures and forgotten things such as letter writing can turn someone’s day completely around. Cards, letters, even a Facebook message can make a world of difference and it’s a positive, creative way to invest some of my free time.
7. Move out! For the first time ever, I’m going to be a big girl moving on my own to an apartment at some point this year. Living in the dorm on scholarship and working there has been a beautiful blessing for three years, but it’s time to put on my big girl pants and take on more responsibility. I’m envisioning a few IKEA trips to seal the deal, but I can’t wait to have my own space.
8. Listen to the radio less. No, I’m not such a hipster that I just loathe mainstream music, but I used to invest a lot of time in hunting down new artists, seeing them live, and purchasing their music to support them and help them gain fame for incredible talent. While there is some pretty great, and equally terrible, stuff out on radio stations right now, I know there are tons of artists I’ve yet to discover that could make my 2015 concert schedule 😉
9. Downsize my wardrobe. I LOVE SHOPPING, no secret there. My closet, however, is way out of hand. So out of hand, that there are three storage bins of my clothes in the garage that I love and are still in style that I haven’t touched all season because I already have two closets (dorm and home) overflowing. I’m looking to sell some of the higher quality and brand name clothing to make a little extra money, but also want to invest in higher quality (also potentially higher price) items such as the beautiful Frye boots I just bought. Labels don’t make you, but quality, durability, comfort, and versatility can.
10. Take care of what I have. Which should be a no-brainer, right? Currently, my car looks like a disaster zone inside and out. It’s not in the best shape, but I need to make more of an effort to keep it clean and in good running condition if I want to get anything out of it eventually when I upgrade. Also, like, I could take better care of normal things like my teeth. Of course, I brush them everyday, sometimes twice a day, but bourbon and sweet tea sure isn’t good for color and flossing never hurt anyone. I’m going to need them for awhile, after all. 😉
So, good riddance 2014 and cheers to 2015. Here’s to looking at you.
With love from the laptop (FINALLY),
Sarah Alexandra
