Resolution, or Revelation?

I'm not huge on New Year's resolutions, basically because we all know that no one actually keeps them. But after a difficult 2014, I did want to start out the new year with a more positive mindset, and with attainable goals.

At first I told myself I would continue to keep a healthy diet, workout consistently, and focus on managing my finances, schedule, and keeping my apartment clean.

Then I thought about that.

Those are highly generic goals; how would I maintain them all?

I thought of ways to make each happen - to work out consistently I will follow this plan, or to manage my finances I will save this much each paycheck and to keep a good schedule I'll use a planner and make sure I include time for all of the things I was trying to accomplish...

Then I realized that I wasn't focusing on the right things. I started to analyze my motivations behind each of my resolutions. Why did I want these particular ones?

Why do I want to work out consistently? When I work out, I feel the most accomplished when I work hard and push myself and am challenging myself and really becoming comfortable with myself as a whole. It feels good to work out, and I like it. When I eat healthy, I enjoy it when it's because I enjoy the food I am making, and when I take the time out of my day to ensure I am eating what I want, and eating cleanly. Why do I want my apartment clean? Because it makes me feel relaxed and at home. And happy. Why do I want to manage my money? So I won't be stressed or worried, and to give me motivation to work hard. Why? So I can be happy.

So this year, my resolution is to be happy.

I know that sounds abstract but I kind of had this huge revelation that the key to all decisions is to do what makes you happy. I know you can't always follow this method but if you're not happy with something that you are doing, why are you doing it? I decided I need to change my mindset in regards to how I live my life.

So I'm going to do the things that make me happy.

Working out motivates me so I will work out. I'll make time for my boyfriend because he makes me happy. I'm going to drink coffee and read books because it makes me happy. I enjoy eating healthy and saving money so I will. Wearing makeup makes me happy so I will. Good grades make me happy so I'm going to study hard. Being with friends makes me happy so I'm going to manage my time so I can see them.

Looking at things this way has made the adjustment to the new year a whole lot easier. I'm still struggling but I will eventually find my groove and just be happy.