So I'm going to fess up. I didn't have much business asking people to wrack their brains for new year's resolutions at Kirkwood Comunity College's recreation center on Friday. For one, I don't really believe in resolutions. And, though the new year is only a week-old, I definitely haven't started off with a bang.
Most of the people I talked to wanted to eat better and exercise more.
Me too.
But, like I said before, I don't believe in new year's resolutions. I think they set us up for failure. It's too much pressure to think about all the things we need to improve all at once. Goals work better, for me at least, when they're gradual and attainable. Plus, I really need motivation. Saying I'm going to do it, is just not enough. I need to have a tangible reason.
For example, last year about this time my now husband and I had just joined a local gym. Our decision wasn't spurred by the new year. Instead it was our upcoming wedding that inspired us to hit the gym regularly and change our eating habits. We joined the gym Dec. 30 or so, just before the new year. So for the first few weeks of our membership we were among the throngs of new members fighting over treadmills and free weights. Then the crowds disappeared as people's resolves faded and we no longer had to hover behind treadmills waiting for one to free up. We stuck with it, though, and managed to lose the weight we'd wanted to.
Then came the wedding.
I haven't been back much since. I could give you plenty of excuses like back problems and being too busy. But, they're just that - excuses. Really, I just haven't had the motivation. I need something like a wedding dress to inspire me to hit the pavement and start running again.
But, even though I say I don't believe in New Year's resolutions, that doesn't mean I don't believe in resolutions at all. And it's about time I made one. Hopefully from now on, you'll see me at the gym more often.
Next week the state will ceremoniously turn over a new leaf as Governor-elect Chet Culver celebrates is inauguration with events in Iowa City on Thursday. Nicole will be at the Old Capitol Kick-Off Reception and Tour from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. For more information, check out www.culverinaugural.com