The cliched resolutions are clearly all applicable: loose weight, save more, use up stashed crafting materials, de-clutter, and pare-down the amount of stuff we own. However, they never really work and really, who remembers new year's resolutions when it comes to say, March. Last year's though, really did work. I did get pretty much all of my Christmas presents done by November and it did enhance the amount I was able to enjoy my holiday. Per the organizational pundits, it worked because it was definable and trackable. There were steps, lists, and projects; all things that I'm very fond of!
So, in an effort to actually learn from history, I've decided to make two new year's resolutions:
- Get all of my Christmas presents done by Thanksgiving. (a repeat, but well worth the un-originality)
- Give myself a $5,000 raise by finding 50 ways to save $100. Odd, yes. But, it's easier than just resolving to save more or spend less, and it has the added benefit of being something of a challenge. The rules will be that it has to be money that we are already in the habit of spending (I cannot give myself credit for having the willpower to skip buying cool new boots). I can add amounts of $50 or more together to get to $100, but I cannot count smaller amounts cumulatively. This prevents me from getting hung up on trying to add in the 75 cents I saved by buying generic shampoo (which while a worthy choice, would be a clerical nightmare and clearly lead to failure.)
Hopefully, this time next year, I'll be able to let you know what we did with our spare 10 grand, and a what a great time I had with a stress-free holiday. Wish me luck.
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