Another day, another month, another year in the books.

I wasn’t planning on writing and end of year post, as during the “planning the post in my head” I couldn’t figure out a format with which I’d be happy. But, then I read one from a fellow blogger, and decided to just write and not worry about a nicely architected end of year post. After all, why does an end of year any more important than any other one?

So this last year a few things stand out. I changed jobs late last year, so this was my first full year. I work sales, and will end the year as the #1 sales rep. I’m pretty happy with my results, learned a ton throughout the process, and look forward to attacking some new challenges in the new year.

Running wise, I got faster. Much faster. I ran 2 full marathons! (and a half one!), but couldn’t quite reach the goal I set out for this year. I was really close on one, and learned that at the end of a marathon, if you feel like crap, go ahead and visit the medical tent. There’s no shame in it, and you paid your $100 to run the stupid thing, so it’s your right to use all facilities! I also learned that weather can really affect your performance. Too hot, and you just melt, and too cold, and your legs possibly get too frozen if you haven’t run in those conditions for the last 8 months. (maybe) I also learned that I’m a mortal, and not Steve Prefontaine. I really really REALLY wanted to qualify for the mother of all marathons, but in the process I learned 1 major thing: You must respect the distance. Regardless how well trained you are, how many long runs you’ve run like a champ, and how ready you feel, the marathon distance must be respected. Not only physically, but most of all mentally.
I learned it the hard way. Simply put, if you’re mentally not there, you may as well pack it in, OR, pull back on your time plans. I know that now... I promise you that.
Oh yeah, and I also learned that running is fun not only on the roads or trails, but also outside of running. Running brings a lot more to life than just miles on your shoes, and I couldn't be more thankful that I got pushed into it. Thanks!

In life, I made two big decisions at the start. Well, actually three. The first was not to make resolutions, but instead, make decisions to change aspects of how I approach life. I know, you’ll say, “That’s what a resolution is”, but to me, they’re different. The other two changes I decided to make I’m really happy with.
-I decided I would do things I want to do, and be honest about my thoughts. Simply put, I decided I wasn’t going to be guilted into doing something I didn’t want to, or go along with the masses just because “everyone else is going”. I can’t be happier with the outcome. Sure, some people have found my honesty a little out of the ordinary, but telling people I simply didn’t want to go when I didn’t want to go, has been very healthy.
-The other one was to commit to what I committed to. It kind of goes a little hand in hand with the other one, but it’s essentially to stick to day to day plans. Sure, big plans, long term plans can change over time, but the little things… the plan to take Karma to the greenbelt, the plan to meet a friend for lunch, the plan to go to dinner with someone… all the little plans that get jeopardized when something more exciting pops up. I call it “better dealing” something or someone for someone or something else. I think I did a really good job of not better dealing anyone.

What else? I’ve covered the bill paying thing, the running thing and got some personal things covered, so that’s about it. Oh yeah, almost forgot. I also got even healthier in my eating and exponentially increased the number of meals I eat at home. The results were not only feeling better physically, but my savings account is also healthier. That means that there may be enough money for a down payment on a place I can call my own in the horizon. However, this “horizon” is somewhere 6 – 36 months away! We’ll see.

So what’s in store for ’08?
Oh, I don’t know. I haven't even fully decided on what I’m doing tonight to celebrate the end of 2007!