Hello 2018!

Even though I've thought to myself "I can't believe it's going to be 2018" nearly every day for the past month, I've got to say – I don't think I've ever been happier for a new year to start.

2018, it is good to see you. So now that it's here, what did the first day of the new year mean to me?

It meant deciding what my goals are going to be. Thinking ahead about the trips I want to take. Writing in a brand new planner (I'm trying out this one!). It's about wanting to make this year better than the previous one and figuring out how I'm going to do that (and probably adjusting them as needed). It's remembering what I loved about 2017 and reaffirming to myself that I'll continue doing those things in 2018. But it's not just about determining the "big goals". It's also the day-to-day stuff that makes me happy and making time for that too.

My 2018 goals

There are a couple things I know I need to change in my life (friends, you know what I'm talking about) so I need to start being proactive and make it happen.

Travel, travel, travel. I've already got one trip booked to Iceland! I want to continue experiencing new places and new cultures.

I really need to incorporate some sort of physical activity into my life and stick with it. I walk a lot thanks to working in NYC but it's not enough anymore. I just started going to Zumba class this past week and while I still feel awkward, it's felt pretty good to go.

Read 120 books. Aside from my usual reads, I also want to re-read some old favorites and pick up at least 1-2 classics. I did this last year and was very happy about it.

Budget and save more. I was good about this for maybe half of last year? Ok, if I'm being honest, probably less. But that needs to change. I already started by cutting cable last month and opening up an additional savings account specifically for travel.

Keep exploring my interests and hobbies, specifically photography and playing my ukulele. I surprisingly made progress last year with both and I want to continue doing that.

Outings with cousins and friends. I consider myself to be really good about planning things with my loved ones but I do think I made even more of an effort last year. That needs to continue!

I still love blogging and in some ways love it more than ever since I've always let my blog evolve to fit my life. I want to push myself creatively, write more personally and make sure it remains something I enjoy.

Lastly, in general I want to be more present while continually moving forward. Which might sound contradictory but it makes sense to me!

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What are your goals or resolutions for 2018?

And Happy New Year!