Change – simple but not easy

As hard as it is to believe, I’m not perfect.  I’ve got lots of room to improve.  This year I decided against New Year’s resolutions that were so drastic.  This year I committed to small changes that I already started to implement once the holidays were in gear.  My key phrase in all has been – simplify. 

Clear out the clutter so I can focus on what I really enjoy.  Now some of the impetus for this move has been my recent unemployment.  With a limited budget, this seems like a perfect time to realign my priorities, but also for once I more control over my time.  Also, I’ve been pulling Mr. Mom duties so that has pulled me towards other options on how to make an impact in my family.  Here’s a simple list of some small changes I’ve made.

- Play with my family more often – bike rides and board games and less TV
- eating more meals with the kids – we eat healthier, spend more time together and save money
- more prayer – this helps more than you believe
- reading and writing – this blog is active and I’ve have been getting through some of the books on my nightstand
- applying to jobs that you really are interested in – why waste your time with anything else?
- meeting with friends for coffee and lunch – sometimes the best thing I do during the day to connect
- working out at home – triathlon season is upon us and I need this to keep feeling strong
- more sleep – clarity in the morning and quiet time is a gift

What do I have to give up on occassion to get the above?  TV.
I’m not completely anti-TV but I only watch a few things and have learned to give up watching alot of sports.
Consequently, beer goes out the door with less sports.  Not missing much here.

Let’s see how the experiment works.  I’ve asked my kids to hold me more accountable.

What things work for you?