I Have To vs. I’d Like To

With so many responsibilities in life I often find myself weighing the “I have to” and the “I’d like to.” It’s easy to get caught up in all the responsibilities and feel that I should focus entirely on the immediate needs like paying my bills and taking care of household needs. These things are important and should get done, but it’s also important to set aside time to have fun.

Like for instance I’m contemplating starting Pilates in February. When I was researching places in the area I found myself thinking about just buying a video and doing Pilates in my Loft at home. But then I thought about how much more fun it would be to join a class where I could share an experience with other women. I could save some money and pay a bill or two or I could take a really fun class and experience something new and different. You get my drift?

With 2012 in place, I’m making goals that aren’t just work or “need” related but also fun. I am giving myself permission in this new year to do things that are creative and work other parts of my brain that are often comatose because they don’t get used enough.

Some of my goals for 2012:

-Finish writing my children’s book.
-Do Pilates on the weekends.
-Work on arts & crafts during downtime.
-Enjoy my city by visiting museums and local attractions.
-Spend more quality time with lady friends.
-Read more.

I’m learning that life isn’t only about setting goals and taking care of the “important things.” Taking a walk with my dog or playing a card game with my husband is just as important as all of other responsibilities in life. And frankly, when I take the time to do things that are more creative I find that I have more energy to tackle the responsibilities.

What are your some of your goals for the New Year? Are they all work-related or are you having fun as well? : )