2024

I don't do New Year's resolutions anymore.

Why?

Well, I am super happy with the life I have. I love my family, everyone is healthy, I work out most days, my job is fun, teaching is incredibly gratifying, and I have some bucket list adventures planned with great friends. And my hair isn't coming back, no matter how many resolutions I plan around it.

I kid. I like my hair. It's low maintenance.

But certainly, there are some adjustments I want to work on that will make a meaningful impact in the new year and beyond. They are more like themes - existing themes I want to improve upon.

Here they are.

Better partner

When you first become a parent, it can be all-encompassing. As a couple, you do whatever you need so your kid grows up healthy, happy, and maybe eventually successful. Other parts of life get put on the back burner. Healthy eating, exercise, friendships, and often, relationships with our partners get less attention.

I want to be a better partner to Carlyn. Not that I'm a lousy husband, but I can certainly improve. I want to be a better listener and a little more thoughtful every day.

Be with Selma

Our little girl is growing up so fast. Every day, she is changing. Whenever I get to be with her, I want to be there truly and fully. Be present. Being Selma's father is the greatest gift of my life. Every day, every week, every month, every year, and every decade will be different and special in its own way. I never want to look back and regret taking any minute of it for granted.

160 pounds

I've weighed between 160 and 170 pounds for the last 20 years. Over the previous 3-4 years, I've been closer to 170 than 160. In 2024, I want to spend most of the year closer to 160 than 170. I am fortunate from a genetic perspective (well, except with hair - see above), so this is about minor tweaks that I'll implement sooner rather than later.

Keep writing

I wrote 34 essays here this year, which has been incredibly fun and gratifying. That's a habit I want to double down on in 2024. My goal is to publish 50 essays next year.

Thank you for reading, and being part of this journey. I wish you a happy new year, one that brings you closer to the life you aspire to live.

We only get one shot at this.

Don't wait.