Wednesday, January 1

2013 Review + Goals for 2014

Happy New Year!  I can't believe how fast this year has gone!  2014 is here!

A lot has happened this year, it's been an emotional roller coaster.  Sometimes it's been wonderful, and other times it's been hard and overwhelming. But I learned a lot about myself and have good feelings about 2014, even though it won't be easy :)

I finally figured out what I want to do.  I want to go into child psychology.  I also figured out what works and what doesn't when it comes to studying and homework.  I have had great friends and even a couple of new friends who have given me great advice along my way that I'm am going to use heavily in this next semester.

Speaking of that, I finished my second year back into college.  For the most part it has been really good, even though this semester hurt.  I didn't do very well at all and I'm slightly disappointed in myself, but I know what to change so next semester will be 110% better.

My uncle passed away in October and I was sad because I couldn't attend the funeral.  It was my mom's brother-in-law, and I was fairly close to him.  I didn't get to see him and my aunt very often, but he was a really kind and caring man, and he was a wonderful example of service.  He was fulfilling his calling and serving others up to the end.

A month later, a very special and caring lady that I have grown quite close to passed away.  She was like a second mother and I loved her dearly.  She has given me so much help and advice, and just loved me for me.  I miss her a lot but I am here for her husband and their kids, who are going through a very hard time.

My 'lifestyle changes' (aka dieting sort of) didn't quite work out like I would have liked them to.  I was doing good and then I'd crash a few times.  I tried giving up soda, drinking more water, and eating more healthy.  However, I have figured out that I need something more specific.  I can't say I want to lose weight, or I want to be in shape.  I need to be more specific than that.

So here are my New Year's Goals (not resolutions, but goals):

+ Start writing down all the foods I eat.  That way I can see what I'm consuming and make adjustments easier

+ Start a low-carb plan.  Notice how I said "low," not "no."  Carbs are great for you, but moderation in everything.  I was nervous about going on a low carb plan until I talked to a few people (including a doctor and a friend who majored in Nutrition) and I think I can do it.  It will be one of the hardest things I have done, but I think it'll also be good.  I'm going to kind of go with my own plan though, and not follow Atkins or anything like that, but follow some guidelines to help me get started.

+ Drink a lot more water.  I know that you can drink too much water, but I don't drink hardly enough. I noticed that when I carry a water bottle with me everywhere I go, I am better at it.
Along with this is quitting soda.  I have tried and failed quitting soda many different times, but I know I can do it.  When I was on the swim team I accomplished this this feat, so I know I can do it again.  I don't know why it is so hard for me, but I know I can do it!

+ Quit eating sugar.  I think the easiest, all though it won't be easy at all, will be to quit eating the extra sugar, aka ice cream, candy, and other sugary snacks.  Then after I accomplish that for a month or so, I can start cutting out other carbs.

+ Exercise at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week.  I am actually excited to start swimming again, because I miss it and it's the only exercise I really enjoy.  It doesn't hurt my knee at all and I just love being underwater.  I think I'll start it pretty soon once the semester starts.  :)

+ The one that has been the hardest for me is taking care of myself.  I have been wanting to take care of other people and help other people, and I neglect myself.  I have learned about boundaries and saying 'no' this semester, and I've learned that it's okay, and other people understand (for the most part).

+ Another issue I've been having is with my faith.  This comes from not attending church as often as I should, reading my scriptures every day, and slacking on daily prayer.  These are all things I want to do better and get back to having the spirit with me.  I don't know why I've been neglecting it, but I am so overwhelmed with joy that He understands and is still waiting for me to come back to Him.  I don't know what I'd do if i didn't have the gospel.

So lots of goals but reachable and good.  :)  I can feel that while 2014 is going to be a tough year, it will also be good.


3 comments:

Ann said...

Best goals ever! You can do these. I know the Lord loves you and will help.

Jessie said...

Those are really amazing goals! I am so proud of you for not only making them, but putting them out there for other to share in your victories! There is so much power in that, by being brave enough to share your weakness, but allowing yourself to be brave enough to turn them into strengths! You are amazing Lizzie Girl, and you can do this! Onward and upward.

lizstephens04 said...

Thank you so much for you support Jessie and Ann! It means so much to me! :)