2009 - The Year of Opportunity

Welcome to 2009. Every year a prepare a list of written resolutions and for the past 7 years, I've shared those only with my wife Mary Shannon. This year I thought I would publish my list and use the extra motivation of that public revelation to help motivate me. Also, I'm going to publish a quarterly update to track my progress. I try to keep a balance of family, physical, professional and spiritual goals. (editors note: I published these Jan 18 after working this list several times. I will update in late March on my progress)

1. Run 1000 miles
This works out to about 3 miles a day. It's a big commitment but I think I'm up for it. I have several training opportunities that will help. I'm going to complete a 5K in under 21 minutes, win a medal in my age group in a 10K and run two 1/2 marathons.

2. Eliminate discretionary spending
Like many people, I spend money on many things just don't need. I'm going to challenge myself to go an entire year without buying any new clothes, which tend to be my biggest weakness. This includes gadgets, accessories, pens, sunglasses etc.

3. Maintain a professional marketing blog
I've cut my teeth with this personal blog and now I would like to try my hand at a professional blog. My goal will be to write about a relevant industry topic once a week.

4. Complete 12 acts of random kindness
I have no idea what these will be but I know the opportunities will present themselves.

5. Actively Conserve
Eliminate unnecessary paper/plastic usage, no newspapers/periodicals, water bottles, shopping bags when not absolutely necessary.

6. Participate actively in my Daughter's education
I'd like to teach her to read by age 4. She is doing well with the alphabet, numbers and counting and even some complex problem solving. I want to make sure I'm augmenting what she's getting at school.

7. Give Mary Shannon a couple weeks of days off
Spend a day a month with Mary Catherine doing something out of the house all day.

8. Continually Learn
Expand my knowledge of my profession, interact with industry experts and learn something new in the marketing field.

9. Take a couple Ferris Bueller days
Occasionally, we all need a complete day off. No responsibilities (work, family, civic etc.) I call these Ferris Bueller days becuase I want to enjoy them to the fullest. Here's an example, in February, I'm going to go to the Chicago with my good car enthisiast friend Alex to attend the Chicago auto show. He and I will spend the entire day at the show looking at every single car. Then we'll have a fabulous dinner and go to hear some live Blues. The next morning, I'll fly home.