Happy New Year

In many ways, January 1st is just like any other day. And yet it’s not.

When I used a paper planner, a new year meant a fresh new book full of blank pages to be filled. That’s one of the things I miss, now that my calendar is on my computer (and synch’d with my tablet and my phone).

But there’s still something about transitioning from a holiday schedule (whether it’s a work slowdown or time off, lots of activities or quiet time at home) back to a regular routine that makes this day feel like the right time to remove a lot of “some day maybe” tasks from my to-do list, delete emails I’m never going to read, and generally think about ways to make life better.

One of the downsides of running a home-based business doing something I love is that it’s too easy to work more hours than I need to. I try to justify it by saying it’s fun, but I’ve realized that enjoying my work does not negate the need to have other interests. I’m in no hurry to retire, but a time will come when I want to, and then how will I spend my days? And really, why should I wait until I retire to get away from my desk?

Starting this year, I will not allow myself to sit down at my computer outside of working hours unless I have a specific task in mind — and that’s how I’ll create time for my favourite pastimes:

• Reading — I already read quite a bit, but it’s mostly fiction at bedtime. I’ve had The Happiness Project for years and haven’t got around to reading it. I also have a few business books, like The Way You Do Anything is the Way You Do Everything, which I’ve been meaning to get to, and focusing on one of those would be a much better use of my time than reading random stuff online. Why not spend the odd Sunday afternoon on the couch with a good book?
• Photography — I toyed with the idea of doing a photo-a-day challenge, but quickly realized it wasn’t something I’d maintain. Back before everyone had a camera built into their phone, I was always the one who took pictures at various gatherings and events, but somewhere along the line, I just stopped. I want to do more of that, but having been inspired by my sister’s November Beauty blog post, I also want to capture some of the beauty in the world around me.
• Yoga — I started taking classes this past fall, after a few years’ hiatus. I intend to continue and maybe (big maybe) even do yoga at home from time to time.
• Shopping — Generally speaking, I only go to a store when there’s something I need. Sure, that’s good for the bank account, but there are lots of things that aren’t necessities, but would still be nice to have. And what’s the point of having a profitable business if you can’t enjoy the fruits of your labour once in a while? Maybe I’ll be more motivated to get out there if I keep in mind that there are lots of lovely local shops I can check out instead of going to the Mall (which isn’t usually very satisfying).

Although I’ll be continuing to strive for improvements in my business life and my physical health,  it’s time for me to feed my spirit as well… time to get away from my desk.