The week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is one of my favorite weeks of the year. I like setting goals, and this quiet time is perfect for looking back at what I’ve accomplished (or not) throughout the past year, and looking forward to what I hope to do and be in the coming year.

I’m entering the second year of my 101 in 1001, and am continuing to check things off that list (so far, I’ve completed 14 goals, and have another 35 in progress!). Those are my more experiential, overarching, life-enriching goals.

In 2012, however, I feel moved to make a second set of goals that are more quotidian. These are basic things that should already be a part of my life, but aren’t for a variety of reasons (and yes, that reason is most often laziness). That being said, I think it’s unproductive to set a goal of doing something every day when trying to establish a new habit, because if you miss one day, or even a few days in a row, it might seem like there’s no point in getting back on the train.

SO. Here’s what I’m going to do instead. I’ve made a list of twelve daily practices that I want to become habits by the end of 2012. They include: wake up at or before 8am, go to sleep by 11pm, go for a walk, floss, read the Bible, eat breakfast, do the dinner dishes before I go to bed, make the bed in the morning, and a few others.

In January, February, and March, I’m going to do at least four of these practices every day. In April, May, and June, I’m going to do six. In July, August, and September, eight. In October, November, and December, ten. I’m not sure what 2013 will hold yet, but the goal is that all of these practices will have become habits by then, and perhaps I can start over with a new set! The thing I love most about this system, is that it doesn’t expect me to do everything every day — and especially because there are so many things I’d like to start doing, that is a very good thing. As my friend Emily likes to say, grace, not perfection.

To keep track of everything and make this system as easy as possible for myself, I’m planning to purchase this goal log, which I spotted on my other friend Emily’s blog.

What do you think, friends? And what are your 2012 goals? If you’ve posted about them, feel free to leave a link so I can come encourage you! :)

Mother Teresa print by CreatebyRET

Hello, my friends! A most happy New Year to you! I had a wonderful holiday, but I missed you all very much while I was away. Here’s a little peek at the last week or so – my New England Christmas and NYC New Year’s Eve, including but not limited to cozy slippers and new pajamas, the debut of some of our wedding silver at Christmas Day dinner, my first raw oyster, and a sparkly NYE chandelier.

P.S. I’m not sure why I resisted Instagram for so long, but I finally succumbed. It is perfect for sharing small glimpses, isn’t it?