My New Year’s Resolutions for 2016

I know it’s almost February, but to me the year is still very much new!

Confession: I love making New Year’s resolutions, but I’m not very good at keeping them (is anyone?). Nevertheless, every year I get excited at the prospect of things being “new”, and I make a long list detailing all the things that I want to achieve or change in the coming year. Here are some of my resolutions for 2016:

1. Read at least 52 books

Considering last year I finished less than ten books (and the ones I did finish were all audiobooks), this resolution might seem a bit unrealistic. But, we’re only three weeks into January and I’ve already finished four books! So I’m well on track. I’ve been making a lot more time for reading (more on this in a future post), and of course, audiobooks make it so much easier to squeeze in extra books when you wouldn’t normally be able to. Stay tuned for my reading list!

2. Write at least 1 letter per month to a friend or family member in England

I love writing (and receiving) handwritten letters, but it’s one of those things that I never make time for. I want to change that this year.

3. Attend a church gathering at least twice a month

I’m blessed to be part of a wonderful community of believers who gather together in homes for times of worship and sharing. Unfortunately, over the past couple of years I haven’t been to many gatherings at all, as we were living quite far away. But now we have moved closer again, I’m making these meetings a priority in my life.

4. Share a meal with friends at least twice a month

Few things are as nourishing to the soul as sharing a meal with friends. When I think about the things that bring me the most contentment, this is definitely high on the list. Problem is, it’s in my (introverted) nature to isolate myself and not make the effort to socialise, even though I know I need community and fellowship. So this year I want to make a real effort to step outside of my comfort zone and do what I know is important.

5. Write at least 12 songs

Last year was not a very prolific year for me (out of choice, really – I chose to give time to other things). Although I have lots of big projects planned for this year, I want to make sure I don’t neglect my passion – songwriting. Twelve songs is the bare minimum, but I hope to write more than that!

6. Write at least 1 blog post per week

Ah, dear blog, I’m sorry I’ve neglected you. This year I will do my very best to update you regularly!

7. Complete at least 1 art project per month

I used to love art as a kid. I was always drawing or painting or crafting. Since becoming an adult (if I can call myself that), I’ve hardly given any attention to this side of myself. But whenever I do, I feel peaceful and happy. So I’m going to do it more often.

8. Write and self-publish a new book

It’s scary to write that where everyone can see it, because it means I’m accountable! But I guess that’s kind of the point. I’ve already made a start on a new book (which I can’t tell you anything about yet, but I will at some point!), and am on-track to finish it within the next three months. So… watch this space!

Happy (belated) New Year, everyone! I hope 2016 is the best yet.

What are your New Year’s resolutions? Share in the comments!