looking forward.

although this is only the first day of 2012, i already have so much planned and so much to do! for the past couple weeks or so, i have been jotting down goals and ideas for the coming year - in both my personal and professional life. i have come up with three major intentions, with many different little goals umbrella-d underneath them.

1. commit.

for the past two years, i have had the most horrible tendency of making plans and then flaking out on them or forgetting about them. this year, i resolve to commit more to the plans and obligations i make. that means committing more to my photography by spending more time with marketing, equipment, classes, etc. i want to learn as much as i can, so i become a better photographer in the long run. i also want to commit more time to a healthy lifestyle... eating organically and better, becoming more active, getting checkups, etc. i don't drink much anymore, so thankfully i don't have to cut that out of my life - but i could do without some of the sweets ;]

2. network.

although i have met a number of wonderful people in the area that have helped me out tremendously, i hope to network with many more in the upcoming year. i want to reach out to other business owners and bloggers who could provide me with advice and recommendations - and maybe a guest post swap. i would like to find a mentor. i want to go to more local meetings, take photography classes & blogging e-courses, and get coffee with new networking pals. basically, i just want to make as many contacts as possible. word of mouth is the best marketing tool.

3. create.

not only do i want to create more amazing photographs for my clients and my portfolio, but i also want to create more in my life as a whole. this year, i plan on creating a website and an etsy shop for t.bell photography [exciting!]. i really enjoy refurbishing and diy-ing, so i would like to do more of that in the upcoming year. i also want to create more amazing memories for my clients, my friends/family and for a. & i. lastly, it would be great if i could event plan a bit more this year, as well. i have two girlfriends who just got engaged, so maybe they'll need my help? hint hint ;]

in addition to putting together goals, i have been perusing the internet to see how some of my fellow bloggers plan for their year. my friend jess from jess LC & make under your life has an annual tradition to ring in the new year - to write future letters to yourself stating what you would like to accomplish in the coming year. in the letter, jess includes not only her professional aspirations, but also her personal ones. the best part about her annual letters? 83% of the statements she has made in her letters... have come true! lolalina [an amazing creative blog] took jess' idea & adapted it into printables that you can actually fill out and keep for yourself. they're brilliant & beautiful! i filled mine out last night :]

i know it seems like a lot of thought to put into a new year, but i feel like it will pay off in the end - as long as i stick with it. so, ladies & gents... could you help me stick with it? maybe i could do a monthly check-in post or something to ensure that i am thinking about and working towards the goals i have put into place. any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

here's to 2012! i think it's going to be great :]