2008 Resolutions and Review of 2007

Like most Americans, I make resolutions at the beginning of the years. And like most Americans, I slack off and forget about them. I want 2008 to be different, so I separate the goals into 2 categories: 1) Concrete and measurable goals that I definitely want to achieve by 2008 and 2) abstract/can't be measure goals that I would try the hardest to achieve by 2008 but won't beat myself over the head if I don't. Without further ado, here's the category 1 of 2008 resolutions:

1) Save and invest $ in a taxable account.
-This is a carried over goal from 2006. I accomplished half of the goal in that I did invested in my retirement account but I did not do anything outside of it. In 2008, in addition to continually contribute to 401k, I would invest in a taxable account (leaving money in the money market of a brokerage account doesn't count).

2) Be Stronger
-Since I get bored if I sit on my ass too long, I am usually out doing something active; thus I am in good shape (according to my annual physical exam report). However, I don't feel very strong. In 2008, I would like to get stronger. I hate weight training, but I would need to start doing that to get stronger. In 2008, I would do these types of weight training at least once a week. Goal consider accomplished when I can do one pull up (I can only hang on to the bar for maybe 30 seconds right now).

3) Be More Positive and Grateful
-My solo-trek through the Southeast Asia gave me a lot of confidence and also taught me to be more grateful. However, there are many times this year, especially in the latter part, when I felt quite negative. In 2008, I want to live consciously and when I am down, remind myself to be positive/grateful and not forget what I learned on the trip. To help achieve this goal, I am going to blog about something that makes me happy or feel grateful everyday. Goal consider achieved when I have 366 blogs at the end of 2008. You guys can help me stay on track to achieve this goal! :)

I did not made new year resolutions for 2007 because I was busy dodging terrorist attacks. Looking back, although I can't measure my achievements, I grow up a lot in 2007 and am more comfortable than ever in my own skin.

I hate to repeat the same thing that everyone already said, but it's true, the solo trip is one of the best things I ever done. My parents are very protective of me because I am a girl. Although I am very independent, I always doubt my own common sense and ability to take care of myself because they're always there for me (which I know is a blessing). One of my 2003 goals is to learn Krav-Maga so I can have the confidence that I can protect myself. Although I probably would get beat up if I ever enter a fight, after running around in foreign countries where I don't know anyone nor speak the languages, I am crossing off that goal because now I know I've the common sense to take care of myself in most situations.

Also in 2007, I achieved one of my most illusive goals, I got my PADI License. Considered I can't even swim 25 meters in 2006, me SCUBA diving is more of a fantasy than anything. The closest to diving I can get is wearing a life-jacket when I go snorkeling. However, Los is great at 'nagging' me so I practice swimming every week just so when he 'bugs' me about it, I won't feel like a loser for not doing what I say I would do (I keep my promises!). And thanks to Los and my own gutsy-ness/stupidity, I pass the 200 meters swimming test and got my diving license.

And thanks to various friends, I got exposed to many things in 2007 that further improve my self-confidence and just being happy with the person I've become. I am not as bashful as I used to be, I don't feel self-conscious when I dance, I no longer feel the need to go out on weekend nights just because, and I choose activities because I enjoy them (which sometime mean stay in or just hanging out with friends without help from alcohol).

I have many things I want to achieve and there are so much in life that I still need to experience. Let's all wish for a great 2008!

Happy New Year!