Often times, I'm ready to set really large goals in a New Year. Sometimes I've even succeeded in my goals, but most of the time, like most everyone I imagine, I fall short. I think it's because we expect so much of ourselves, and we overwhelm ourselves by either comparing our accomplishments to what others do, or we feel bad about ourselves for falling short in years previous, then we feel guilty when we don't do what we set out to do over and over again.

Yes, I do have some goals in mind, such as doing more art, reading more books, finishing another book in a series I'm writing, exercising and eating better, etc. The same things I always set for myself in January. But, the biggest goal I've set this year is to not be hard on myself, if I fall or even fail.

This year, I just want to feel better. To feel less bogged down, stressed, worried, and ashamed of things I claim I'll do, but never do. I want my health to improve, and my energy levels to grow, and to just feel like I am made of more light and goodness, and kindness. I want to be better to myself and to others, and treat everyone (especially myself) with respect and love.

Unfortunately, that does mean pushing myself out of my comfortable, lazy-ish zone and actually making an effort to transform myself. But, I know I'll feel better with each hard push I give myself.

It's never easy to go outside the comfort of routine, but I think if I remember how I want to feel, I'll do okay. But, I also plan to forgive myself if I don't do it perfectly in a year. Maybe it's a two year goal, or a five year goal. Either way, I want to feel better, however long that takes.

I hope you'll set the same goals for yourself and start feeling better.