For a blog about personal enrichment, I really missed the mark in 2013. That’s a little harsh; I did revamp the site and start posting more regularly. And, since once of my 2014 goals entails more self-compassion, we’ll chalk it up to the starts and stops that a new endeavor often brings. I’m a sucker for new beginnings. Whole-heartedly. Whenever I hear about people starting new jobs or moving to a new city, I get a little jealous. Every month, every year, every September, every season change feels like new opportunity. Some more so than others. So with that admission, I will gladly jump on the Fresh Start Bandwagon of 2014. (That’s what I’m calling it.)

Like any list-maker worth her salt, I have broken down my 2014 into several categories complete with bullet points. But mostly, anything on those lists boils down to these four things:  cultivate enthusiasm; reach out; say yes; follow through.

What are some goals you have for the New Year? I like having these simple phrases – the idea is that they’ll help me in the moment. Like when I don’t really want to put on real clothes and go have human interaction. Or when I’m about to say something negative or blasé. I tend to be a worrier, and am looking forward to being a little less pragmatic and a little more adventurous this year.

A few more concrete things I want to accomplish in the coming year include finally taking a Photoshop class. (It may be my new unicorn.) There are also a handful of really interesting courses on Skillshare that I’d like to take. I’m enrolled in a fashion draping course, but it started just as the holidays were getting underway, so I haven’t done much in the way of homework. I’d like to improve my photography as well.  I also have a growing stack of books to read, both fiction and non-fiction. Ryan was kind enough to get me Creative Confidence for Christmas, and so far it’s excellent! Hopefully the stack of books and online courses will translate into entertaining (and insightful!) blog posts.

Another goal is to make sure I post once a week – so I’ll see you soon!