resolute

January 10, 2006 &bull uncategorized

Like most other people (I think?), I usually come up with a list of resolutions/goals for the upcoming year. I’ve found it’s always a bit risky to tell someone your resolutions for any of the following reasons:

1. They think you’re a flake for having actual, documented resolutions
2. You discover you were caught up in the glee of the new year and are completely embarrassed when you disclose your list
3. Now that you’ve told someone your resolutions you have to actually do them

It’s really this last reason that makes me want to publish my resolutions for 2006. I figure if I share them with whoever’s reading this (i.e., Heidi), I’ll be more inclined to do them. Without further ado, here are my resolutions for 2006.

1. Write more
Yeah, pretty vague, but overall I want to publish more on my blog and sharpen my writing skills.

2. Take a creative writing class
Of all the things on my list this is probably the second most unlikely thing I’ll complete. God knows I need the help, but the thought of being on the line and actually having to write creatively in a structured class gives me the willies. But, I’m hoping it’s a year of surprising myself so it’s on the list.

3. Read more
My humble goal is to read 10 non-technical books this year. I tend to read a lot of stuff for my job, which accounts for the low number. If I were mowing lawns or doing something non-technical during the day I would probably put this number at 25.

4. Watch less “TV”
Even though we don’t have actual television service, I spend a fair amount of time watching DVDs. (Netflix — simultaneously a godsend and Satan’s helper.) I’m trying to limit my viewing to weekends only. Er, maybe weekends and once during the week.

5. Experience more live music
Every time I go to a show I have such a good time I end up making empty promises to do more of it. When I was in college I went to what seemed like a couple shows a month. Now? A pathetic two shows a year if I’m lucky. I want to up this to 3-5 shows this year.

6. Develop a technology specialization
I’m somewhat of a technology “generalist” so I’m hoping to find something interesting to really sink my head into.

7. Learn the basics of C#
I’ve been wanting to learn a .NET language for a while. What better time to get motivated, right?

8. Take a photography class
I actually just signed up for a class so this might be the first resolution I complete. (More on the class later.) I love photography and have always had an interest in it. But, paraphrasing Wittgenstein, “Enthuasiasm and talent are two different things.” Perhaps some instruction and dedication to the art will improve my abilities.

9. Take more photos
Related to resolution eight. For, how can when become a better photographer if he or she never takes any photos?

10. Devise a second career option and research new ways to make a living
Ah, finally. The number one thing on my list I won’t do. Interestingly enough, though, it quite possibly ranks first in things I really want to do.

11. Set up online bill pay
Holy cow do I spend a lot of time paying bills. Medic! I think I’m finally ready to stop bleeding and jump into the late nineties.

12. Ride (and finish) three double centuries
This could be tough due to scheduling and whatnot. I’m optimistic, though. Definitely more on this later.

13. Ride (and finish) the three King of the Mountain stages
Related to resolution 12. This one might be do-able, given the shorter distances. I love climbing; hopefully these rides won’t ruin that.

14. Use the F-word on this site
Not the most important resolution on the list, but I need to get the monkey off my back, you know? And, who wants 13 fucking resolutions? Talk about bad luck.

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