Guess who's back, back again...

The only thing that is consistent about my blogging is the inconsistency about my blogging. I last checked in last September and a lot has changed since then. Although I don't think I mentioned it I was in a relationship this time last year and that has ended (around Oct/Nov of 2019). It was my fault. It usually is.

Anyway, I am checking in now from a pandemic. We are presently going through a world-wide pandemic know as, Covid-19. This is a coronavirus, but this one is especially deadly. Those with pre-existing breathing problems or advanced age seem to be the most susceptible to the virus. Many who acquire show no symptoms, but in order to stay safe, we are basically sheltering in place (staying home) and practicing social distancing, which I do naturally because I tend to avoid people in public.

Because of Covid-19, I am presently working from home for the next two weeks. I am writing this on day 2 and I realize that I am enjoying being at home quite a bit. Prior to the pandemic and after breaking up with long-term partner I had decided that I was spending way too much money on things that did not matter, which mainly comprised of eating out, buying outdoor clothing and gear, and running shoes.

Over the past month or two, I have been preparing meals at home, taking my lunch to work, and not shopping for things I do not need. This has been a type of reverse therapy for me. I have found happiness and contentment in the serenity of day to day life. I decided that I wanted to simplify my simple life even more. I read books that made me a better person. I learned to cook different things. I went for walks. I rode my bike more. I drove my car less.

I don't know how long or how consistent I will be with blogging. I have started and stopped many times. I have no grand thoughts on people reading this or finding any value in it, but it is good for my mind and good for my soul.

2020 pandemic,

heydavebell

Wow, I failed new year’s resolutions big time!

Hey, it’s been a while and I assume that no one missed me. As a person who is not bound by habits I don’t know why I would think that I could stick to a new year’s resolution. I had a great idea! 30 minutes on 30 habits per month. I had freedom to do whatever I wanted and I got to change every 30 days. Did I accomplish this goal? No. Did I come close? No. In fact, I didn’t make it through the first month of the challenge. So, here I am in late September thinking maybe I should try again in October.  

I have been interested in drawing and sketching lately so maybe I make my practice that for 30 minutes per day all month long. I could go back to the original of reading a book for 30 minutes per day. Maybe it should be writing and I could use this platform for thoughts.

Who knows. If I do anything I will be sure to share my experiences here.

I came to a decision...

After much deliberating with myself and with discussions with others I have decided that I will begin my 30 day challenges in 2019 with giving up social media in January and reading 30 minutes every day from an actual book (I renewed my library card today).

I think starting the year with giving up social media will be a good way to hit the reset button on how I spend my time. I know I waste hours on social media and usually it is when I should be doing something else. I don’t know if I will take the extra time to connect with people in person or not, but it will be a great feeling to not be checking my channels or making sure I am posting something just so I will get likes on the post.

I have gotten out of the habit of reading and I think starting the year off reading books will be helpful for me. I read a lot, but usually it is an online article or social media post. I need to be intentional about taking time to read something that will add value to my life.

It is Friday, Dec 28, 2018. I have logged out of my social media channels, removed them from my phone and iPad. I have also renewed my library card and downloaded a book to read and have already read 30 minutes today.

Here’s to new habits!

30 days of 30 minute habits

Recently I started thinking about the new year (2019) and wanting to make this year different than the previous 48 years of my life. I have never been one to have New Years resolutions, or to set goals to accomplish - this might explain why I have achieved so little in life. Anyway, after a couple of discussions I decided to start a new practice every month and practice this practice 30 minutes per day for 30 days. I would call it 30 for 30, but unfortunately ESPN took that title for its documentary series.

I want some way to document my practices and to maybe hold myself accountable so what better use for an unread blog than to document my trials and practices. It is only a few days before the new year and I have not committed myself to my first practice yet. Here are items I am considering for the month of January:

• Reading - (a book, not a magazine for 30 minutes per day for 30 days)
• Running - (30 minutes per day every day for 30 days straight)
• Writing - (maybe on this blog, maybe in a journal, but organizing and writing my thoughts)
• Parkour - (because why not?)
• Drawing - (would be fun)

Along with focusing on something new every month to practice I am also considering giving up something every month. I am considering giving up alcohol for the month of January. This would probably go well with running for 30 minutes per day over the course of the month. 

I think what will come from my month of practice is that I will realize how much time I waste and how limited I am in my ability to focus on one task or topic. Also, I hope that I can create new habits that will make my life balanced. 

Here is to new habits!