What I GAINED this year, and my goals for next year. No New Year's Resolutions!

Happy New Year's Eve everyone!

The new year is always time for reflection, and looking back on what we have done in the past year, as well as looking ahead and making plans for what is to come. I don't believe in making New Year's Resolutions... I feel like they tend to be goals that people didn't care enough to put into action before the New Year, and break in a matter of months, weeks, and sometimes even days. So, I'd like to make a list of things I've gained this year, and some goals I have for the next year, which I'm already on a path to achieve.

This year I Gained:

A healthier self image!
A bunch of new friends through Spark People!
A better understanding of my body, and what really makes it perform at its strongest and best.
A new running obsession.
My Twin, in all her glory. Love you Becca!

Things I've done:

Started exercising 3 or more times a week, every week!
Ran a 5k in 42:01!
Lost weight with HEALTHY eating habits and exercise rather than a fad diet.
Let myself be photographed without covering my face or hiding in the back of a group.
Taken responsibility for myself and my body. Held myself accountable for my weight, and fitness level and actually taken steps to become a better, healthier me.
Taken progress pictures (which have ALWAYS scared me) and actually posted them on this site... where anyone can see them.

My short term goals are to:

Run my next 5k on February 1st in under 39:59.
Be down to 175 lbs by my birthday (April 9th).
Sign up for and run a 10k in 2009.
Be able to do regular push-ups.
Take a yoga class (I've never done one before).

What about you guys?