Jan 8

Jan 8 2020 Goals...Work to Live

So, I have thought hard on what I really, realistically want to add to my goals for this upcoming year. As many know it is very easy to just starting writing a list of everything you want to do. However, when you break it down to what is really attainable vs. what is just wishful thinking your list begins to shrink.

After much deliberation, I have decided there is really only one thing I want to accomplish for 2020.

My goal for 2020 is to embrace the French mentality to work to live.

In the United States unfortunately we have come to believe the way to success is to work, work, work, work - never taking the time to really to enjoy life. Well, let me tell you this is not a healthy approach to life. Have you not heard that life is too short and should be enjoyed as if every day is your last? There is something to be said about that so I have decided I am no longer going to live to work, but rather work to live!

Crazy thinking right? Well, I am going to make every effort to change my life for the better and try my very best to learn to work to live!

So, here goes nothing. I am actually writing out my goals. Those preliminary goals that I believe are attainable. Goals that are realistic at least to me and goals that are not overwhelming. Remember you can always add or delete items from your list. This is not binding.

Work to Live. This is not as easy as you think. I have a bad habit of constantly being on my phone. Either because I am texting, reading emails, or posting on social media. It seems my phone has become part of me and it will take some doing, but I am determined to put that phone down when I’m watching a movie or reading a book. Another thing I am going to consciously watch out for is my workload. I will do my best to limit the time I spend working to only Monday through Friday 8:00-6:00 p.m. with an occasional lunch break. I know what you are thinking, how can I skip lunch right? I am going to make the effort, at least that is a start. So, I’m going to repeat to myself, I can do this - I can work to live!
Cut-Back on Expenses. I have cancelled my Xfinity subscription and I have to tell you it is liberating. I did not realize how stressed I felt every month when I saw the bill. Now, I’m much happier. I purchased an Amazon antenna for $25.99 which allows me to watch popular national TV networks and local TV shows at no cost. Because I have a smart TV I also watch Netflix and Amazon Prime which require additional fees, but definitely less than what I was paying for cable. And finally, I watch PlutoTV which is also free in my region. I am going out less and cooking more at home. I am learning to appreciate my surroundings more and with that I am reading more which I did not realize how much I missed. This all helps with not spending too much on frivolous items. My new motto is to ask myself - do I really need this or do I just want this? Mind boggling right?
Healthier Eating. As you know the French do not snack. So, I have decided to cut back on snacking it really is not good for you and by doing so will help me maintain my desired weight. I am also dedicated to eating more vegetables and less meat. This is not necessarily the “French way” but I figured it is good for you so you can’ go wrong. And, finally, I am going to reduce my portion intake. I remember my grandmother for the longest time would say that if you eat less your stomach shrinks. So grandma, this is for you.
Travel. Some people stress out when they think about traveling. All the things you have to consider can be a bit overwhelming. To me, I love traveling so making a list of where to go, what to bring and where to visit is actually fun. So, I’m going to be making shorter trips from home, but still far enough to feel as if I am traveling outside my comfort area. Of course, Paris is on top of my list and will be next month, so can’t wait.
Entertain. Anybody that knows me knows I love to entertain. So, I have decided to bring back my afternoon tea parties, have more themed dinner parties and now include game night parties. For those of you thinking I am crazy, I have perfected my entertaining chores and believe it or not it is not stressful and always a blast. Maybe I will write an article on how I like to entertain and show it is not as bad as you think. I can provide you with tips on what has worked for me.

So, these are just a few of the most important goals I have written down for 2020. This is a big year for me and I have promised myself I am going to make an impact in my daily life, my children’s lives, and overall quality of life. To working to live!!! Viva the French mentality!