What exactly does it mean when we say, I’m turning over a new leaf? Why is this phrase so symbolic of paradigm-shifting life change? Hasn’t the new leaf fallen from the exact same tree as the old leaf? Hasn’t it fallen onto the exact same patch of grass? So, what’s the big deal?
As 2008 comes to its end, I’ve spent a bit of time thinking about the things that should probably be different as I step into 2009. The list is long. I’ve separated it into two categories: Resolutions and Dreams. The Resolutions are the things that I know that I can do and that, really, I almost MUST do to improve my personal quality of life. The Dreams are things that I will do if I’m suddenly endowed with superhuman powers and/or win the lottery.
The Resolutions:
1) Take better care of my teeth and skin – I’m really terrible at this. I’ll fall asleep without brushing and flossing, or washing my face, and I’m starting to feel and see the results. Not good.
As 2008 comes to its end, I’ve spent a bit of time thinking about the things that should probably be different as I step into 2009. The list is long. I’ve separated it into two categories: Resolutions and Dreams. The Resolutions are the things that I know that I can do and that, really, I almost MUST do to improve my personal quality of life. The Dreams are things that I will do if I’m suddenly endowed with superhuman powers and/or win the lottery.
The Resolutions:
1) Take better care of my teeth and skin – I’m really terrible at this. I’ll fall asleep without brushing and flossing, or washing my face, and I’m starting to feel and see the results. Not good.
2) Be more diligent about vitamins for myself and for Little One.
3) Lose 10 pounds. Yes, I know I have much more to lose, but losing weight hasn’t been the issue. Keeping it lost has been. So, I will permanently lose 10 pounds.
4) Get Little One on a healthy schedule. Right now her schedule closely resembles that of an out-of-control rock star. It’s just not doing either of us any good.
5) Get Little One to sleep in her own bed. This one will be the most wearing, I think. Little One is so stubborn and strong-willed, and very set in her ways. And, as I'vd said, a little like an out of control rock star.
6) Become a writer. Specifically, a columnist. This might seem a little like a Dream rather than a Resolution, but it’s been a Dream for decades, and as I haven’t yet become a superhero or won the lottery, it’s time to reexamine its status. The thing is, it’s possible and the only thing keeping it from happening has been my own lack of faith in myself. I’ve come to believe that this is one of those things that you Fake Until You Make.
7) Increase business sales by 20%. Again, possible. Again, held back by lack of faith in myself.
The Dreams:
1) A Coffee Table – Doesn’t sound like much, but I’ve made a solemn vow to myself that I will no longer buy second-hand furniture or particle-board quality furniture. The Coffee Table is where I make my stand.
2. Pay off all credit cards – Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
3. Pay off car – Somebody get me a tissue
4. Get Honey into preschool – Doesn’t sound like it should be a dream, but preschool is expensive! Shouldn’t be, but it is.
There isn’t a whole lot in these Resolutions and Dreams that’s new or different. Even the Dreams, though far reaching and improbable, aren’t impossible. The only thing new is my commitment to them, and isn’t really commitment that makes or breaks us?
So maybe it’s not the leaf that makes the difference. Maybe it’s what you find or even choose to find when the new leaf is turned. Will I find the same old patch of grass or will I choose to look deeper and find a patch of fresh, clean earth into which I might plant a whole new tree?
