Resolved

I've been very silent as of late, partially owing to the end-of-the-year madness that has pervaded my life in many different forms.  But I've realized lately that I've missed sharing my thoughts with the kind few who enjoy hearing them.

With a new year comes the inevitable slew of New Year's resolutions, which got me thinking.  The majority of New Year's resolutions involve health and personal happiness.  Eating better, exercising, and generally living in a healthier manner are on many people's to-do list at the start of a new year.  And even though as endurance athletes many of these things are already ingrained in our lives, there are certainly things we can do better.  We can train harder, refine our diets, or chase a new PR.  More broadly, we can adjust our attitudes and vow to become happier, more positive, and more flexible.  But what, exactly, does making an "official" resolution accomplish?  For many people, having a set goal to work towards at the beginning of a new year is helpful and motivating.  I, however, believe that we shouldn't need a New Year's resolution to live our lives in the best manner possible.  Instead of making  New Year's resolutions, we should make a promise every day to be the best we can be--whether it's athletically, professionally, or personally.  After all, excellence isn't just a once-a-year pursuit...it's a daily attitude, a choice.  Many people "chase" happiness or satisfaction and believe that if they were to just accomplish a certain goal, they would achieve peace and self-fulfillment.  In my opinion, this is part of the appeal of New Year's resolutions: they provide a starting point for such a chase.  However, I believe that happiness is not something to pursue, but a decision we make every day.  Will we constantly be looking for something to fill the void within us, or will we do the best we can with what we've been given?  The choice is ultimately ours.

Over the course of a year, many things can happen.  As I look back on 2011, I personally remember a year of cementing strong friendships, making amazing memories, learning some hard lessons, pushing through difficulties, establishing new relationships, and saying goodbye.  Some of these things have been bitter, others sweet.  Overall, though, there's not a thing I would change.  We're never really done finding out who we are.  All of life is a journey of self-discovery, and I'm entering 2012 determined to continue experiencing life to the fullest without any regrets.  Fear is irrelevant.  The big wave surfer Laird Hamilton once said, "I don't want to not live because of my fear of what could happen," and it's become a mantra I try to live by.  So, my lovely followers, as we enter the new year I urge you to step outside the box.  Live life without fear, and love with reckless abandon.  We only get one shot at this...let's make it worthwhile.  Happy 2012!

~Abbs