2018 vs. 2019: I Am My Own Competition

At the beginning of each year, I write a list titled "WINS" and place it in my binder. Throughout the year, whenever I accomplish a goal or succeed in something unplanned, I write it down on the list. Whenever I feel discouraged or believe that I have not done anything of value, I look to the list for motivation. I enjoy comparing the years of my achievements because it strengthens my efforts.

The only person who I am competing with is myself.

In 2018, I had many wins, though most of them were on a whim. I had a busy schedule due to a new job and external tasks, yet somehow I found the time to read, write blog posts, create online products, paint, do work for clients and other activities for the growth of my career and mind.

The common theme throughout the year was RESPONSIBILITY. Each month asked of me to become not only more responsible but to hone my skills of organization and verbal communication. It was overwhelming at first, because I was not used to operating in this manner. I was not used to using planners, keeping watch over calendars, tracking important tasks or generating content in a short period of time. However, despite my initial errors, I have begun to become more comfortable handling these new responsibilities.

During 2018, I also decided to stop waiting for someday to do the things that I said that I wanted to do but never got around to. I wanted to take a train ride out of town for several years, but never did. I decided to take a train for Illinois to visit a friend. I had been without a proper laptop for about two years and it caused me to fall behind in important projects. I made a decision to reinvest in the tool that helped to move my goals forward and bought a new laptop.

2018 was my preparation for this year. I know that 2019 will be more successful and productive because I have made a personal choice to operate in that manner throughout the year. No matter what obstacles appear, I will not stop until I have finished what I desire to manifest.

2019 is the year of completion!