One last week

This is literally my favorite week of the year.  The week before New Years is, for me, the most hopeful-what-can-I-dream-up-for-next-year time of the year.  And if you're anything like me, you might be anxious for 2011 to be O. V. E. R., so I am twice as giddy as last year at this time.

Now is when I really sit down and try to figure out what I would like to accomplish for the next year, and if you've never done this, I highly encourage it.  One lesson I've learned over the years is you have to give any thing you want attention.  Whatever you give all your attention to will grow, so be careful what you wish for, and then make a conscience decision to make it a part of your life.

My main goal for next year?  That's simple... happiness.  Plain and simple as that.  I am going to figure out what I need in my life on a regular basis to maintain a happy outlook.  I know I won't be getting a new job or winning the lottery any time soon, so I'll have to find it the old fashioned way:  hard-work and determination.  I'm also not interested in the rose-colored glasses that fade the reality of life.  Nope, I want life, problems and all, and still be happy.

After reading The Happiness Project this year, I knew that I was going to need an actual plan for this, and not just wish for happiness.  It doesn't just happen and must be a deliberate change in thinking if it doesn't come naturally for you (like me!).  I have made lists, goals, and trying to plan for each month, so this eventually will be a natural feeling.

My biggest obstacle is and most likely will alway be, not letting outside forces (people) effect my mood.  I am so easily changed by everyone in my household on a daily basis.  I react to everyone around me and let that rule how I feel, and that is going to be the hardest habit to break.

So join me this week in finding what you will need to make 2012 a better year.  It doesn't matter what your wish it, as long as it's important to you.  I'm curious to see how my own project will unfold, and excited at just the thought of it.  Of course I'll include you along the way with the ups and downs of what is going on, and hopefully inspire you to make some changes of your own.

Here's to the last week of 2011!