Looking Back on 2013

With 2013 wrapping up I thought it would be a good idea to really think about some of the things that I've learned over the past year.

I've learned not to take anything for granted and gratitude is important. I have a great network of family and friends that always support me, I have a great job that affords me the ability to live a good life and always have food and shelter, and I have my health. I am grateful for all of these things.

I have learned that you get out what you put in. Over the last 4 months, in Kung Fu, when I put in the time to practice, help with adopt a driveway, ask questions, and do my pushups, etc, I notice the difference. It feels great. I also notice the difference when I skip workouts, eat poorly, and neglect practice. It doesn't feel good. Life is about balance and when you put in the effort at work, in the gym, in kung fu, and in your relationships, life has a way of paying that effort back. It might sound hokey but I truly believe that kung fu has taught me the secret to being good at life. Now it's up to me to do it.

I have learned that you really can get too much of a good thing. In the last year or so I've had a hard time doing things that I used to be able to do with no problem, like recovering from a night of excess drinking, or trying to workout after eating nothing but pizza or fast food the day before. I guess that's life's way (and my body's way) of telling me to make better choices. I'm not going to give up drinking alcohol or eating junk food completely, but I listen to my body and make much better overall food choices now. I still have a way to go but I'll get there.

I'm looking forward to an amazing 2014. I have a lot of goals to accomplish this year but for the first time ever, I really feel like I have the tools to meet them. I'm going in with a greater sense of purpose and a plan. Happy New Year!