Resolutions. 2013

Oh how I love this time of the year. It's the time when you can't help but feel that there is a NEED to change. And I honestly always need some kind of kick in the ass to start moving. Your guys' New Year resolutions have been a great help and inspiration to me.

I've never tried to write a list like that, but I think it will be an awesome motivation for me and a way to organize my thoughts. Also, I would like to hear your opinion and advice on the steps that I figured I have to do in 2013. Maybe you are going through the same situation in your life or already been there and have a handful of tricks for me? ;)

So, let's get it started!

(Sorry the post came out kind of long!)

1. Moisturize my skin

I forget or I get lazy. No more excuses! We are not getting younger here and this body needs some lovin'... and a body lotion!

2. Write a plan

I normally tend to avoid thinking about my future. Because I'm afraid. Because I'm unsure. Because it stresses me out. Fears aside. If you want to have a bright future, you have to put your hand into planning it. Otherwise it will be planned by someone else and there is no guarantee you'll like what tomorrow brings. So stop pretending like you'll think about it tomorrow - leave it for Scarlett O'Hara. Get your life into your own hands and start DOING something with it. Move, move, move!

For myself I find it easier to structure my thoughts when I write them down. So, 2013, let's write a plan, let's gather the craziest ideas and start putting them to life. We live only once!

3. Write at least 2-3 blog posts a week

If you've been here long enough you probably know by now that I have no blog posting skills. I do it whenever I have time or there is really something cool to share. 

Here is when comparing yourself to other people doesn't come in handy. If it ever does! I read other blogs and see what people write about. After looking though a bunch of bright and colorful photos, read so many inspirational blog posts, I feel that my daily life isn't nearly as interesting or exciting to share with someone. And my thoughts seem the repetition of someone else's. 

But I haven't really ever tried. Even if to just see the feedback, get comments, or find readers who would really enjoy something I have to share. Most of the ideas in this world have been already created, used, or told by someone. But it's about a personal attitude, a soul that was put into the same old thing - and it starts living a new life.

By the way, I started a new questionnaire - you can find under "About Me" section to the right.. Please, take a few seconds and respond to the question "Should I translate my blog posts to Russian." I know that if you don't speak Russian, you don't really care if there is a translation. But in general - how do you feel when you see blog posts written in a few languages? Does it make you think the person who wrote it is smart? Does it make you cringe because the post becomes too long? Do you think the person shows respect to people with different language knowledge and skills? Just answer accordingly, as if I was asking about translation to your own language. :) Thank you!

4. Leave my job

As weird as it sounds, I really want to do this in 2013. Don't get me wrong: I like my job, I've worked there for 1,5 years already. It pays OK, I love people I am working with, I feel secure having a regular source of income, I have a daily schedule, etc. 
BUT, I know for sure that this is not something I imagine myself doing for the rest of my life. It lacks so much needed creative vibe, freedom, and space for self-expression. You know, they say choose the work that you love, and you'll never have to work a day in your life. I want that sentence to be said about me!
From this resolution comes the following...

5. Decide whether photography is my dream job

This is a question I've been asking myself multiple times - should I take my photography to the next level and start making money out of it? I It is my creative outlet, but it is well known that when you make business of your hobby it quickly takes the charm away. 

I am afraid to make the leap of faith, so I decided to research the topic first to avoid mistakes. I already started reading blog posts and watching the videos on how to transition to a full time photographer (if you are interested what are these articles and videos, let me know and I will make a separate blog post about it). 

In 2013 my goal is to make a firm decision about my photography and stick to it. I think, 1 year is enough to figure out if you are any good at charging money for your creativity. If you want to help me with the decision, please, write in the comments if you would purchase a photo session from a photographer whose work looked  like this, this, and this? 

6. Take some online photography courses

Even if photography is not something I make money of, it is still something I truly enjoy. I want to take a few online classes to improve my skills. Especially, if I decide to proceed with photography business.

7. Revise and organize my wardrobe. 

Search the dark corners of my closet for forgotten items. Sort them: give away everything I haven't worn in 2 years. That means I'll probably won't, so other people might make more use out of that clothes. Give some part of the items to charity (I try to do that once in 2-3 months, and I have to say it feels amazing! You're not only uncluttering your space, you're actually helping other people.)
Make the most out of what I ALREADY have. Buy more basics and accessories - they are capable of changing and spicing up any outfit. Though, it still means keeping my eyes open for those unique items that might be on the pricier side, but will make it to my top 10 all time favorites and be in trend for years.
Don't get my head over the heels when I'm thrifting - that instantly means too many cute but totally unnecessary things bought. Make wise choices.

8. Explore my options of moving to another city (or country)

I have been wanting to make this change for a while now. When I was a student I used to travel a lot and lived in many different places. Every place left a trace in my heart and made me a person I am now.

It's not that living in one place for a long time is not my "thing." I'd love to settle down, have a place I could return to after all the travels, a place I could call "home." I just feel like I don't belong in a place I live in right now.

In 2013 I need to explore the options of: moving to another city, moving to another country for some more university studies (not sure I'm ready to dive back in, though...),  go volunteering somewhere in the world, try to find a job placement and move to another country.

9. Make new friendships

I need to make more friends amongst those creative souls around the globe. Somehow, most of my friends are very pragmatic people with business brains and a plan for everything. And I love them, but I feel a need to talk to like-minded people. The people that get my creative side, you know? :) I want to throw ideas back and forth, I want to brainstorm together, I want to go on a roadtrip with them and feel careless. I want to not have a plan once in a while. :)

Ways of doing that: 

- connecting with local photographers for a professional discussion, a cup of tea or a cooperation on a photoshoot; 

- using social networks to stay in touch with those amazingly talented people that live far but think alike; 

- do not be afraid to organize or attend a local creative event where there are chances of meeting new interesting people.

10. Stop overthinking

It's one of my biggest flaws (in my opinion). Because of that, I am very slow at making big decisions and lose some opportunities. It has to stop. 

- Stop analyzing what others think about you. It's their opinion, have your own!

- Remember: it is always better if you regret something that has been done, than something you've never done.

 - Watch the "Yes Man" movie with Jim Carrey again. Remember that sometimes dealing with the consequences of your decisions is worth the final outcome.

Disclaimer: in a flow of successful anti-overthinking campaign, don't forget that some things still require deep thoughts put into them!

For those who cannot come out with resolution list, I have a fun link for you! ;)

Sasha.