2008 and 2009 Resolutions = complete

Celebrate! As of this week, I've not only achieved my New Year's resolution for this year, but next year as well. What, you may ask, was my resolution? Well, it's the same one it's been for the last 2 years, and will probably continue to be the same one forever.

Resolution = go to the gym once. Since I've been twice in 1 week, I think I'll carry over that second visit to fulfill next year's resolution in advance. There's no law against that.

Yes, I'm serious, I only really challenge myself to go once a year. I always hope that'll inspire me to go more, but usually that doesn't pan out. By around July, I'll usually go again. But not every year. So basically, yes, I essentially pay $450 for one day of working out. But I feel healthier just having the membership. I think my cholesterol dropped as well when I paid the annual fee.

Was this really a good resolution? Heck yes, as long as you apply the SMART rules... It's all in what you resolve to do...and i can't take credit for the following acronym but it can be applied to almost anything...and I've started to do that. If it's not smart, I won't do it. Sounds nerdy, right? But, I made a SMART decision to share my ridiculousness to you. I also made a SMART decision to use the word ridiculousness. It's working already!

What does SMART stand for? A SMART decision is:
S = Simple
M = Measurable
A = Achievable
R = Realistic
T = Task oriented

For the resolution...I would venture to say that going to the gym once is a fairly simple and realistic task to measure by actually arriving at the gym; thank goodness I was able to achieve it (I was worried). If I had one of those "challenging" resolutions that didn't fit the criteria above, like losing 10 pounds, eating well, or growing bigger boobs, how bad would I feel if I didn't complete it? Keep it SMART - I'm promoting my own happiness and sense of accomplishment. Double benefit. When I ask myself - should I continue to go to the gym? The SMART decision is no, because obviously it is no longer realistic or achievable. Problem solved without any mental anguish!

So, how else does being SMART apply in areas of life outside of resolutions? Let's take the conundrum of getting up for work in the morning on a Monday. Should I take on the task of dragging myself out of bed?

Simple task = yes, I would hope so. Jump start your brain, or leave it idling
Measurable = yes, clearly becoming vertical is measurable.
Achievable = maybe on some days, but probably not on a Monday morning
Realistic = no, absolutely not
Task oriented = get up, or enjoy some more shut-eye?

Thus, one can see that getting up for work is NOT a good, SMART decision. So, I continue to sleep through my alarm, and I don't feel a bit bad about it. I knew getting up was not smart to start with, so I have avoided making such bad decisions. A lot of happiness has resulted in my living SMART-ly. I'm less tired than before. And I don't feel so bad about being late for work. Benefits abound.

Let's take another example. Should I have 4 beers or stick with the 3 I've already consumed?

Simple = To beer, or not to beer, that is a very simple question.
Measurable = 20 little ounces
Achievable = drain the gizzard and keep on going. Can walk straight = definitely ok.
Realistic = I could probably even go for a fifth. four would be a perfectly realistic target.
Task-oriented = drink high-quality beer.

Clearly, I have met all criteria, and have come to the right, SMART decision - to go ahead and get started on that fourth beer. It's amazing how this all works out, right? I feel like I'm now progressing through life with some direction and guidance, and much less stress. I encourage you to start thinking SMART-ly. Don't make life too complicated by making these crazy resolutions like "finding Jesus this year" or being "courteous to other drivers" = not good things to tackle. But don't let me stop you from deciding how to handle your issues however you feel; remember, you are the "decider" when it comes down to it. I thought about this entry, and came to the conclusion that it was a SMART task to undertake. Maybe I should make writing 1 blog entry a year a retroactive 2008 new year's resolution. It seems pretty smart, and after all, I've already achieved it. Happier already! Winner!