Gaining in 2014

I realize, as another year comes to a close, that's I'm really, really good about making goals for myself and even at putting them out there for the world to see.  I am not, however, very good at sticking with them. I realize I need some form of real accountability. I need to be held to the fire to make it happen. Every year for the last 5+ years, I've said "I'm gonna lose weight this year."  Funny thing is that in 2012, I succeeded. I lost 40 lbs that year!  I've also said many times that I'm going to spend more time with God, exercise more, and be better wife & mom.  I've said I'd be devoted to my life's goals of writing a book and becoming a conference speaker & presenter.  I've made some lofty goals over the years, but really, if I'm honest have not been successful in reaching those goals.  That's a tough pill to swallow, but I promised when I started this blog to be sincere.  So, this is me being sincere.  I'm human and sometimes, I fail. Thankfully, God still loves me (and many of you do too!). Whew!!! I am eternally grateful for THAT!!!

In 2012, I lost 40 lbs.  In 2013, I gained 47 back. Yikes!!! How could I let that happen?  I let those awful bad habits creep back in to my life and I lost all focus and dedication to my health.  I've even tried to recommit several times this year...keyword...tried.  Fell short. 

I've said before I wanted to run a half-marathon and then sat my big booty on the couch and didn't make it happen.  Why?

I've said before I'm going to write a book.  My book.  My story.  I believe with all my heart that God has given me the experiences of my life so I can impact others and I know that it will honor Him for me to share that story in the written word.  Unfortunately, I just haven't forced myself to do it. What's holding me back?

At least 2013 wasn't a complete loss. I did have a goal of speaking more and this year I was blessed to be a paid speaker at two separate events.  What an incredible experience!!! I am truly humbled and honored to be able to connect with people in this manner and I'm praying God will open more doors for me, in the future.

The year 2014 starts in about 3 hours and its time for me to decide...will this be another year of the same ol' same ol' or will this be a year of "LET'S DO IT!" ???? (Where's the Magic 8 Ball when you need it, huh?)

I'm praying for strength, endurance, perseverance, focus, and determination and I'm looking to God in my journey for the coming year.  I'm making my goals for the year more measurable and they're all goals I can track and check off as I go...so I can see progress.  I'm not focusing on what I want to lose, but instead, I've decided to make goals that will help me gain something positive in my life. 

In 2014, I plan to
1) Spend 10 minutes w/ God each day. (and, I'm going to commit to doing this BEFORE I check my smartphone apps or email or bank account! If I can spend way more than 10 minutes checking these things each day, I can definitely spend 10 minutes with my Father.)
2) Eat at home more/Cook more (menu planning will be key).
3) RUN in three 5ks and one 10k race. (I'll be one of 4 featured moms on the journey to a 5k in a local family magazine www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com from February to April...how's that for accountability???)
4) Blog at least 2x/month on Sassy & Sincere AND When Foster Care Goes Right
5) Write 12 pieces for www.FosterFocusMag.com
6) Book 4 paid speaking engagements as a conference or workshop presenter.


What will you do in 2014 to impact your life in a positive way?  Share your goals in the comments section here.