Ch-ch-changes! 2011

Happy 2011!

It's no secret I LOVE starting a new year with lots of resolve. Things I'm going to do this year include running a 1/2 marathon (eep, any tips for that would be helpful!), take a photography class, put my waffle iron to good use, be productive at work, and go on some awesomely big adventure.

I recently read the Happiness Project (and immediately bought copies for lots of people I love). Right before that I read Nudge, Switch, Mindless Eating, and Predictably Irrational (all of which I highly recommend). Things I've gleaned about making resolutions that work (and add to your happiness) are that:
1- little changes matter, and add up over time
2- write it down and tell people what you're up to
3- if you don't want to do it, you won't
4- you have to be able to measure it

Nothing revolutionary, but trust me, those are the magic bullets that behavioral economists, and lots of other smart people have studied.

So, for me--the first thing is to start simple. I'm working on a theme for this year that will capture what I want out of 2011. One of my favorite themes from a few years ago was "consume less, produce more". I'm going to continue checking these blogs for tips and motivation (and entertainment).

p.s. giving is a proven way to make yourself happier-- donate to two of my favorite causes here and here


*image from Francesca-- I love the idea of a year of living Ghandi's wisdom

Happiness Project

I've always thought that I'm a really happy person. But a week or so it finally hit me that I've moved far away from all my friends and loved ones. I have to admit to a bout of feeling sad and wallowing in the loneliness. I started thinking of ways to attack the loneliness, or maybe just pre-empt it. This last weekend, I had a very good talk about this with someone I really respect who pointed out I haven't been acting all that happy for the last few months. I resolved that I HAD to be happier-- mainly return to the old me (pre- rough year of big changes and too much stress, back to when I was surrounded by all the people I love in CA). So, here is my plan of attack. I'd love to hear your ideas, suggestions, what you do etc. Oh, and yes, be prepared toanswer those phone calls and emails from me!

• always have a good book to read
• work out every day
  
• Do 1 project a week
• start a seattle activity club
• call 1 friend a day
• always have fresh flowers in the house
• cook more
• read scriptures/ conference talks.. work on spirituality
  
• be less critical of people
• reach out to other people MORE
• work on making new friends in Seattle
• Be productive at work
• Get enough sleep (Thanks for reminding me of that, Erika)
  

**True, that title isn't mine-- this book (which is on me to-read list, and which gets great reviews, along with its blog) came up with it.