My No Resolution New Year

It is that time of year again. More precisely, it is the last day of the year, again. This time December 31st, 2018. And as my grandfather always said it seems to come faster and faster each year. This year, I resolve to make no more resolutions, ever. (yes, the irony is not lost on me – only a Sith deals in absolutes, as Obi-Wan would say).

From a Stoic point of view, we should not need a special time of year to focus in improving ourselves and making a positive impact in the areas of lives where we are able to. As Marcus Aurelius says (to himself):

Get busy with life’s purpose, toss aside empty hopes, get active in your own rescue-if you care for yourself at all-and do it while you can.

In other words, do not put off those big things you intend to do someday any longer. For that matter don’t put off all the little things that will help you get there. Eat better, sleep better, exercise, read, reconnect with an old friend or relative, say thank you, save for retirement, travel. If we care about ourselves, where we choose to put our limited time on earth, we must not wait for someday, because, well I can’t say it better than CCR:

Well, I’m here to tell you now, each and every mother’s son
That you better learn it fast, you better learn it young
‘Cause someday never comes
Ooo someday never comes

John Fogerty

As one small step I am starting the work I must do today, and I am not making any resolutions, what about you?