2026 Reservations

Each year I make New Year’s resolutions and each year I never keep them past February. And last year, I didn’t even make any resolutions because I knew I wouldn't keep them. Instead of saying what I intend to do, I will be making reservations, saving space for the things I want and receiving them when I am ready. 

1. Writing A Novel 

I have made this resolution before, started a novel (or several) and just never finished. I would always start, get overwhelmed, then “give myself a break,” before devoting too much time to other things. I knew deep down I was trying to find excuses not to finish my novel because I was scared of the success, not the failure. I can write. I have been told so and have done so many times for work or school. Now I just need to be confident in my skills and do the damn thing! 

2. Being Healthy 

Whenever I hear the word healthy I immediately think of a gym. All I can see is weights and treadmills, and I immediately want to take a nap or eat something. I hate working out because it’s another thing on the to-do list that I don't like doing but have to do. Instead, I will focus on my mental health and try to get more sleep and eat right. These are things I most definitely struggle with and can lead to weight gain and lack of mobility. By treating the root cause of my lack of motivation, maybe I can cure the symptoms and actually go to the gym because I have the desire and energy to do so, and release the pressure I feel when I go. 

3. Advocating for My Singledom

Originally I had this as Not Mentioning My Ex but unfortunately, the trauma he left me with will have to be discussed with a licensed professional, so no dice there. However, instead of complaining about him, I could focus on what I want. Right now, I want, no need, to be single. Getting into another relationship without healing the wounds of the previous will create baggage and possibly lead to more trauma and resentment. So I need to understand how I was hurt, what are my triggers, what are my hard passes, and most importantly, know how to decipher red flags. Growth without pain leaves nothing to gain. 

4. Understanding/Getting to Know Myself 

I not only want to advocate my singledom but also myself as a whole. Even with coworkers or family members, I sometimes say yes to things when I want/should say no. I tend to please people so that I won’t cause strife or conflict. And boundaries? What are those? I’m genuinely terrified of hurting people’s feelings, so I just agree to keep the peace. But then I end up resenting those people because I am constantly doing things I don’t really want to do. So what do I like? What don’t I like, not just the triggers? What brings me joy? What makes me truly angry or sad? I don’t know all the answers to these questions, but I’m sure I’ll learn as I discover who I am. 

5. Going After What I Want 

I want to be an author, which technically I am, but I want to be more distinguished. Not only that, I want to become department chair, then dean, all the way up to chancellor. Maybe even start my own university some day. On a smaller scale, I want to teach a writing class and a YA literature class. As I learn to advocate for myself, I work towards my goals and ensure I can achieve them. 

I know these sounds like resolutions, however, it’s all about perspective. I am making room in my life for my wants, not trying to cram in a bunch of obligations. Being better can feel like a chore and I don’t think that’s how it should be. Sure, it’s going to be hard, but the reward should make the labor worthwhile. Of course there will be hard days ahead, but tell yourself “I did it,” rather than, “Oh god, glad that’s over.” Remember, it’s about perspective. 

Until next time, thanks for reading. 

Comment below on what your reservations for the year will be.