Tracking something you want to improve is a great first step to improving it. Inspired by Amy Hoy's 2014 goals post, I decided to think about and write down my goals for this year. Here's what I'll be up to in 2015:
Blog more often
Last year, I only wrote 5 posts. In 2015, I want to write much more than that - at least, two posts per month. I've set up a recurring task in Ominfocus to keep me honest.
Become fluent in Mandarin
Over the past two years, I have been slowly learning Mandarin. By the end of this year, I want to be able to:
- have a conversation with my wife's parents
- talk with my wife's friends about work or kids
- have a basic, written conversation with my wife
I know that regular practice is critical. So, I'll be practicing speaking for at least 30 minutes per day, and reading for 15 minutes per day.
Release my first product
In the fall of 2014, I took 30x500. I learned a lot, and I want to put the ideas into practice by releasing my first product.
Ride my bike more often
I have been riding bikes for fun and exercise for about 6 years. In 2014, I was very inconsistent with my riding. You can see that here:
In 2015, I want to ride more consistently to stay in shape and make sure that I can keep up with my friends. I'll be shooting for 30 hours per month of riding.
Speak at a conference
The thought of speaking at a conference scares the hell out of me, but I want to give it a shot this year. I think it will be great get out and meet more people in the tech community.
Show up on time
I have an embarrassing habit of showing up late. It has slowly gotten worse over the last few years.
I don't want to keep my friends and co-workers waiting on me so I'll be working on some tiny habits to get me where I need to be on time.
Be happier
According to The How of Happiness, 50% of your happiness is genetic, 10% is based on your circumstances, and the remaining 40% can be increased/decreased independently from your circumstances.
Instead of focusing on the circumstances of my life (my job, salary, the city I live in, etc.), I want to try out the happiness strategies from the book that have more to do with your attitude and outlook on life.
Each month, I will focus on one of the 12 happiness strategies per month from the book and do the exercises for that strategy.
Your Turn
Enough about me. What are your goals for 2015? Let me know in the comments.