#52in52

Feb 2, 2017
3 min read

2017 is now my third year doing #52in52. I often get asked why I set my goals in this way or what’s the point of all of it all. This seems to be the easiest way to share all of that with you. It will also be nice to share the story behind each goal, who was there with me and how achieving each goal has helped to enrich my life. It’s been amazing to see others take on the project as well. I love seeing each post and have used goals from others list to create my own.

The story behind the project: At the end of 2014 I was in a place of feeling very unfulfilled and knew that it was up to me to change that. I starting to think about the New Year; what I wanted to do, who I wanted to be, and the things that I wanted to experience. I found setting goals to be more effective than setting resolutions. I was inspired by a friend who a few years back completed a list of 12 goals she had for the year – one per month. While I set, and revisit my goals a few times a year, I wanted to make sure I set myself up to have a wicked 2015. I was super unhappy at my job at the time and wanted little things to do to keep me from losing my spark. Thus #52in52 was born! I wrote out a list of 52 things – or small goals - to accomplish in 2015. The goals ranged from baking a birthday cake for a friend (#2) to quitting my job (#41). New experiences such as cross-country skiing (#45) were exciting and helped me get outside and active in winter. There was time to connect with others when I called someone I hadn’t talked to in a long time (#18) or when I was complimenting a stranger (#9). Teaching an outdoor yoga class (#44) was a great way to connect with my community. My lists always include a variety of goals. From connection, communication to physical and health – I need a well-balanced list to keep me on track.

2016 was a successful year in my mind. Achieving my biggest goal of going to Africa (#3) felt fantastic. It’s also good to note that some of the larger goals have many small ones within them. To get to Kenya I fundraised $8000 which was a huge task itself. While each year there was a few goals that I didn't accomplish or couldn't finish for a variety of reasons I am still motivated to write out a list, display it in my room and have my very own epic to-do list for the year.

Here's my list for 2017