So today is the day to reflect on 2015 and all that entailed. 2016 is going to have major changes that you didn’t expect. We always start off by claiming 2016 as a great year and what we are going to do that is different. So tomorrow’s post is about resolutions. Today is about 2015 and remembering the good. (The bad needs to be forgotten and left out of any future plans.)
For me 2015 was great. We moved to the beach. My writing began to truly get a foothold in the market. I visited places that I never dreamed I’d go, or that Congress clearly doesn’t think I should have visited. Seeing the world is always a good thing and I met family and made new friends. I kept writing a part of my life for 2015 and it was almost easier than 2014 (the wedding and all that drama that comes with being a bride.)
Life became calmer and more rich. I truly enjoyed simply being married, living on the beach, and taking things as they come. If anyone knows me you know that I’m pretty fiesty and in the Chinese calendar I’m a Dragon, so this doesn’t always come with being a calm person. I still had my determination. The day of the building explosion where I couldn’t actually go home with my husband, I still went to my critique group. I didn’t throw in the towel, but on the whole, I push myself far more than anyone else ever does and the move to be relax was perfect for me.
I hope you’re taking today to reflect on all the good that 2015 brought you. Tomorrow’s the day we make resolutions and talk about what we want for the future. Today is all the good things. Hope all is well with everyone and talk tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I reflect on the past year before making New Year’s resolutions?
Before making New Year’s resolutions, spend time focusing only on the positive highlights of the past year — meaningful experiences, personal growth, and good memories. Deliberately leave the bad behind and exclude it from future plans. This approach helps you build forward momentum from a place of gratitude rather than regret, making your resolutions more grounded and optimistic.
What does it mean to keep writing a part of your daily life?
Keeping writing a part of your daily life means consistently making it a priority regardless of life’s disruptions. For example, the author attended her critique group even on the day her building had an explosion and she couldn’t go home. It means not throwing in the towel when circumstances are difficult and treating writing as a non-negotiable commitment rather than an optional activity.
Is it better to forget the bad parts of the year or learn from them when planning ahead?
According to this perspective, the bad parts of the year should be forgotten and deliberately left out of any future plans. The focus when reflecting and planning should remain on the good experiences — like travel, relationships, personal milestones, and growth. Dwelling on negatives can undermine the optimism and clarity needed to set meaningful goals for the coming year.
