New year, new resolve

Like most people, I tend to make some resolutions each January 1. Some years, I do nothing more than make a casual mental list, and forget most of them as soon as the thought leaves my head.  Other years, I'm more formal in my approach, writing them down and trying really hard to to keep them. But either way, it's unrealistic to expect to create new habits, drop bad ones and become more spiritual, better organized and physically healthier all at once.

This year, I'm approaching my resolutions a little differently.  Instead of writing out a list of things I want to stop doing, start doing, or do better, I'm going to tackle a particular aspect or area of my life each month, and focus on it for 30 days.  They (whoever "they" are) say it takes about a month to establish a new habit.  So over the course of 12 months, I can--at least theoretically--create 12 new habits by this time next year.

To kick things off, I'm starting with my spiritual life, and committing this month to daily Bible reading and more time each week in study and meditation.  I'm using an ESV Bible laid out to accommodate a year-long study.  I started it two years ago, and stalled out about half-way through.  I'll pick up where I left off, and when I get to the end, I may simply start over.  Other monthly resolutions will delve into organizing, fitness, cooking and entertaining.

Be sure to eat some black-eyed peas for luck today (here's my favorite recipe); and I wish for blessings on each of us who resolve to make the most of 2011.

Happy new year!