My Goals (or Lack Thereof) for 2015

I’ve restarted this post about half a dozen times now.

I’m having a difficult time describing my goals for 2015, and I think that’s because I’ve been feeling a need lately to NOT plan. I’m more interested in listening to my gut, pushing myself into new realms, and being flexible when opportunities and challenges present themselves. This is the direction that I’ve been moving in over the last several months, and I want to continue down this path.

Certainties and uncertainties

I don’t know what 2015 will look like, but there are a few things that I’m fairly certain of. I know that I’ll be spending a good portion of the year out in the wilderness. I know that I will be launching a new course in February and running another Multi-Passionate Must-Haves sale in May. I know that I will be finishing my book proposal and seeking out an agent.

That’s about all I know for sure. I don’t know how much time I will spend in the wild. I don’t even know where I will be in a year, but I’m not letting the uncertainty upset me.

My girlfriend will be graduating from grad school in May and applying for artist residency programs all over the country. I could end up with her in the Bay Area, I could spend eight months in Provincetown, or head to the Glacier National Park. Each option sounds magical in its own way. But since this is largely out of my control, I’m staying focused on my own quest for now.

Themes for 2015

Instead of setting strict goals for the new year, here are some themes that I see being relevant for me in 2015.

Courage: pushing myself into new realms, living life in a way that feels right to me, even if others don’t understand. The rebellious streak I described in my last post.

Flexibility: going with the flow. Not structuring every hour of every day. Taking things as they come. Changing direction as often as necessary and not worrying about it. Learning new skills and making sure to acknowledge my progress.

Simplicity: More time doing “human” activities like hiking and building fires. Slowing down, reading, playing music, and making art. Cutting ties with as many big corporations as possible, buying less and breaking free from the force inside that wants to acquire objects rather than experiences. Focusing on the projects that matter, spending less time on Facebook.

Independence: putting my needs first, learning how to solve challenges on my own, but also asking for help when necessary.

Mindfulness: getting out of my head and into my body. Meditation, yoga, recognizing my “anxiety voice” when it starts speaking and learning to refocus and feel strong and resourceful again.

Thinking Bigger: not putting bigger bloggers and authors on pedestals, but thinking of them as colleagues. Putting myself out there and going for greater opportunities, recognizing impostor syndrome for what it is.

I’m not entering the new year with the drive and clarity that I usually have in January. Right now I feel more a sense of curiosity and excitement. But that’s okay. I’ll fill in the details as I go.

Your Turn

What are your plans or themes for 2015? How much are you planning and how much are you leaving open?