No New Year’s Resolution? You Don’t Have To Make One
| January 3, 2013 | Posted by peach_ under Life |
Have you made a New Year’s resolution? You’ve probably asked yourself or was asked by others what yours are. If you’ve already made one (or two, or a list), good for you! But if you haven’t and feel a tinge of guilt, perhaps you’ll be relieved to know that while making goals (which resolutions essentially are) makes sense, not making any makes sense, too.
I was fascinated by the above video, where Leo Babauta of Zen Habits and Tim Ferriss, the best-selling author of The 4-Hour Work Week, The 4-Hour Body, and The 4-Hour Chef (which I’m reading now), argue: goal or no goal? Leo says you don’t need goals, while Tim says they give him something to aim for. Interesting that two supposedly opposing views seem to come from a similar set of core values.
I’ve been a fan of Leo’s Zen Habits blog for years. As for Tim, I’m one of his many fangirls/boys from reading his books and getting a glimpse into his brain. It’s like my two favorite men of the blogosphere coming together. 
And if the video didn’t catch your interest, hey, let’s share some macaroons. I got them fresh today. 
They’re irrelevant to this post but who doesn’t like macaroons? 
I’m agnostic about resolutions. I think if they are something you feel moved to do, then they can be good/useful. However, if they are only something you feel you “ought” do, I think they often become burdensome and negative. I also think it’s true that some people are “goal people” and others are not–and I am not, at least not currently.
Your macaroons look awfully yummy, and very pretty, too! The last time I had macaroons I left them on a plate on the sofa table while I went to the bathroom and when I came back they were gone and my dog looked very pleased with herself
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My thoughts are similar to yours, Julia. I think if something makes you happy and is important to you, then you’re inclined to move in that direction anyway. And if it doesn’t and you’re unhappy having to force to yourself to meet some sort of goal, it’s time to evaluate why reaching that goal is even important.
And aw, naughty pup!! You made me giggle imagining the situation, though.
It’s hilarious when furbabies watch you like a hawk as you eat something delicious! I swear they think if it’s unattended, it’s up for grabs.
I just stumbled upon your blog and it’s so beautiful!
In terms of the video – I personally do love to have goals, but Leo’s general perspective tends to resonate with me much more than Tim’s. I kind of struggle with Tim Ferris – he does have plenty of useful advice, but something about him bothers me. He always seems like he’s grasping at something more… vs Leo who seems content with what is. Then again, I find so much fulfillment in setting and achieving my goals… I guess it all goes back to the concept of finding balance and taking a middle path
Hi Catherine! Thank you for your kind words!
I completely agree with you that it’s about balance. I’d ultimately love to get to where Leo is and be content with what I currently am/have, but it’s hard! Instead of goals, I prefer smaller, completable steps/lists that are in line with what I find important/interesting at the time.
I see what you mean about Tim Ferriss. I find him motivating and encouraging since he’s always challenging and pushing himself to do the next best thing. I too wonder when he’ll settle, but then it keeps him writing those books I love to read.