Normally this is the time I set some resolutions for the new year. Usually with mixed degrees of success. This year I think I’ll take a different approach.

I’m not sure rushing to make resolutions just because it is New Year is a great idea. For starters January is a pretty depressing time and, maybe, it isn’t the best time to make wholesale changes or wild commitments.

The pressure to make resolutions at New Year and start them immediately is overwhelming. You are told it is the time to do it. Everyone else is doing it. Everyone is asking you what your’s are.

This often results in rushing to come up with some. You don’t care what they are as long as you have some. Often they are too ambitious or unrealistic. Or not just not that important to you.

It is a waste of time unless you have spent time thinking about it properly.

I suppose that is the key. If you are going to do something, then you should be realistic about how much time it requires and then spend that time on it. I know I’ve not been good with that in the past.

In 2019 I’m going to respect my own time more.

I’m going to take my time when doing things, accept that things take time and not put too much pressure on myself if things are taking a while or are not yet 100%.

I’m going to use my time more wisely, on things that matter to me, that interest me, that I enjoy doing.

I’m going to spend less time doing things that don’t interest me. Including stopping things I’ve already started. That could mean putting down the book I’m not enjoying, stopping the film that is a bit naff, or finding a different tutorial if the one I’m working through is dull. Time is too short to waste.

I’m going to spend more time doing new things. I love learning new things, exploring new places and trying things I’ve not tried before. This is a great use of time.

I have my own targets and aspirations for the year but I don’t want them to become a burden. I think the key to that is to be flexible and make sure they have short term, achievable aims. They will evolve over time. And their importance will fluctuate during the year. And all that is ok.

Then come the end of 2019 I’ll see where this has taken me.

Any advice on making the best use of your time, please let me know in the comments.