No Labels New Year's Resolutions

This year, I am writing an alternate ending, a different last chapter for 2010. Instead of kicking it in the pants as it walks out the door, I am hugging it good-bye. I had some very personal losses and challenges in 2010, but I choose to acknowledge that I had a good year. To top off the good vibes, I am kicking off 2011 with my own "no labels" New Year's resolution. Instead of signing up for a high-priced gym, new age therapy or inedible diet foods, I am taking a stand. I am spending a whole year breaking out of the box.

Yes, there are bad "no label" examples like generic salad dressing (yuck) and dollar store shoes (ouch). However, my no labels New Year's resolutions don't concern what I eat or what I wear. This is about this square peg (me) trying to fit in a round hole, or vice versa. This year, I am going to be free. I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the one that is right between my ears.

Judging by my past successes, I know I need a plan. I cannot stick my fingers in my ears and ignore every advertisement or insensitive "friend" that may want to help me "improve" my life. Still, I need to love me, really love me. Here is what I'll do and what I won't do in 2011 to fulfill my no labels lifestyle.

No Labels New Year's Resolutions

• I will not label myself as fat, overweight or heavy.

• I will sign up for a fitness class that makes me feel sexy, like belly dancing.

• I will not label myself as old because of maturing body changes.

• I will try new clothing styles, just because.

• I will not label myself with any political party but will actively listen to others, without labels.

• I will not label myself by my occupation. I am a person, not my job.

• I will not identify myself by my hometown or current location. I'm an American.

There are a few days before New Year's so I may add a few resolutions to this list. Keeping these resolutions will require focus because I love compartmentalizing my life. I'm prone to labeling things, even the drawers in my office. This year, I'm pulling the sticky labels off my life and living like that one catch-all drawer in my kitchen - full of important goodies.