Thursday 2 January 2014

New Year's Resolutions in Resolution

Ah yes, the new year has chimed in.
Not only has it brought hope for this coming year but 
also its shadow of guilt.  
That is why I am reluctant to make any concrete resolutions. 
 I have never stuck to any of them.   

I shan't think that this year is the exception.
I usually start and stop things according to my own rhythm.  Although having said that, this year is one of the rare times where the new year coincides with the new moon which makes it a good time to make a new start.


New year's resolutions are as standard and prescriptive as the wishes of a beauty pageant contestant.
(Even the parachute ride bit.)

Well maybe not quite so incomprehensible.

I probably won't do yoga five times a week. 
I probably won't go to the farmer's market and whip up breakfast, lunch, and dinners from scratch.  I probably won't drink 2.5 litres of distilled spring water powered by full moon charged crystals daily.  
I probably won't double cleanse my face morning and night with standing appointments at the hairdressers every 6 weeks.


But I have learned from the past year that trying new things is very rewarding.  I have learned that home isn't where my electoral roll is registered but where Mr CSW and I sleep together.  I have learned that as much as I thought I was equally attached to the idea of being a bohemian gypsy and certain personal material possessions
 that I truly can live out of one suitcase.
While it has been stressful at times not having my things at hand,
 it has also been very liberating.

So I have decided to keep doing things I am shy or nervous about. 
 Open mic night at a comedy club?  
Get on the public soapbox at Speaker's corner?

I think there is a visceral stress and emphasis that 
people don't spend time doing things which 
won't improve one's chances in their career, status, or relationships.
 So I might learn German and Danish even though it won't lead to anything.  Although Danish will save me from reading subtitles on all my favourite Nordic shows.

 I have not reached enlightenment so am looking forward 
to getting all my boxes when I get back home. 
But I am going to do a serious edit of my things 
when I get them back.

One concrete resolution I will try and stick to is 
I will also not purchase any schmata or chachkes.
I have more than enough things than I know what to do with.
I will not purchase anything from Primark, H & M, Zara or 
any other high street store this year. 
( Exception being white cotton t shirts! )

I must admit I have some nice things that I should use and display rather than constantly trying to add things to a collection that isn't even on show and constantly in storage.
It is a false economy and unfair to the objects themselves.

Earlier last year, I had my first negative incident on the tube where I was physically threatened by 5 teenage boys that was completely unprovoked.  I didn't get harmed in the end but it still gives me a moment of hesitation every time I get on the tube. 

Via

 Ironically since then, 
I have had to take public transport more than ever! 
But to mentally counteract that incident 
I might start smiling at complete strangers on the streets of London and risk being seen as a lunatic!

Happy new year and
wishing you all the strength and resolve to stick to any resolutions you have made this year! 

61 comments:

  1. I hope this new year will bring warm winds for you and a pair of headphones to wear faithfully when you are on the tube.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Naomi - love this! I made a list of goals, not resolutions in the end, and they were mostly achievable (I think!), but mostly I am being kind to myself and others!

    As you know, I have made a similar vow vis-à-vis the High Street Shops - I have vowed to not purchase anything until the end of February of any kind (exceptions are newspapers if required and shampoo!) and to actually only purchase twice a year, but nice things, not the fluff and bother. I will keep you posted on how I do, but had to run to the local mall for a gift for someone today and did not feel a twinge! I have also vowed to look at NO retail sites online during the same period! I already feel kind of lighter!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Yeah..I think you should get some earphones...at least pretend you're listening to some music. It does help. Still avoid eye contact as much as possible. I don't do resolutions anymore. I find it quite faddish. I replaced it with goals or things to try to achieve. When I don't, they're carried over to the next year, with some modifications, then I aim for more strict deadlines. I agree with you, no more high street purchases as much as possible. Last purchase from Primark was a Xmas jumper. Anything I purchase now has a resale value (should I ever have to sell them in times of need) and yes, with lots of use rather than putting in storage. I hope that your house gets sorted soon, so you can unpack that one suitcase :D Happy New Year to you and Mr CSW x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes earphones even if they are not attached to anything and look down at shoes which is why shoes are so important on daily attire?!! Yes I think you phrased it better than I was trying to - it is goals and not resolutions! and Yay I love that there is this collective mindset that people are sick of crappy stuff! Chinwags - resale value or bust baby ;p Happy new year xx

      Delete
  4. @Laoch - yes I now see why people do keep their heads down and headphones on but just warm and no winds would be great :)

    @Wendy - It is a great feeling to know that unless it is truly worth it I wont purchase anything. It has now been proven to myself so I won't be burdened with things that just clog up everything, I will be keeping a close eye on you! hehe

    ReplyDelete
  5. No resolutions for me.....those teenaged wolves sound horrible. Glad you escaped unscathed. I say smile like a loon....that's the surest way to avoid any unwelcome attention on the tube. If you look happy on those overcrowded, smelly carriages, you MUST be insane. Happy New year to you and your Mr!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. But that's because you are already purr-fect ( sorry ;p) Yes I did except for not liking teenagers but that will pass. Yes smile and ironically people will stay away!! Hope you had a fab holidays x

      Delete
  6. I think your resolutions sound like the thinking of a fun, imaginative person!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Open mic? That's pretty ambitious - best of luck on that! In Texas we deliberately make eye contact so as not to show weakness, oh and we also have concealed carry laws! Hope you have a fantastic year!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. that is hilarious! Yep Texas sure is very unique indeed. And you FS!

      Delete
  8. It is good to face fears and extend oneself. I could not stand up and project my voice or speak with confidence and humour and off the cuff before I became a teacher. As I am contemplating my goals for 2914, you have left me with some good things. Thank you Naomi.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think I was way too comfy and then it gets boring and I don't like stagnation so I try to do something to shake it up even if it is a trip. I would love to be a teacher funny enough. Good luck with your projects this year Carol.

      Delete
  9. Happy New Year! I had never heard of the term schmata before. UrbanDictionary is quite informative. :) Best of luck with your (non)resolutions.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I had a few friends who were in the schmata business. Urban dictionary is great. Good luck to you for your goals this year too Merry Wife!

      Delete
  10. LOVE this post Naomi! Ha, are you on a Shopping Ban? I am going to write about the lessons I learned from my own mildly successful one last year. I was really worried about speaking in public until I gave those blogging workshops to teens last spring. It was so liberating to push past a major fear! So if you go to open mic night and get up in front of the crowd, do tell. As for goals that may not advance anything in your life, I am brushing up on my French for a couple of reasons, one of which is to translate the new article on Victoria Beckham that is in the beyond-gorgeous issue of French Vogue for Jan. 2014. Don't judge. XO, Jill

    ReplyDelete
  11. Oh and ps, I love that you showed a picture of the dumpy ol' 14th Street station. Ha! I do not like packs of teenagers on the train. Don't even get me started or there will be a rant.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The group mentality in general is bad enough let alone hormone fuelled 17 year olds.
      So cool you did those workshops. I haven't had to speak in front of strangers in such a long time...French is still lingua franca and I wouldn't mind reading that article myself actually Jill!! xx

      Delete
  12. SERIOUSLY? That's a real sign?
    You are very brave to face the real threat of a pack of boys - I do hope you continue to heal from that experience. (did anyone nearby come to your defense?)
    My instinct is always to make eye contact with others. Though I have a smile trying to emerge, I think my expression is mostly flat. Smiles come with reason like a shared laugh. (can you tell how bothered I am by that sign?!)
    Thanks for the boost to stop spending.... all of your tips on this are great. Cheers!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it was a joke sign but then you know New York - no one pays attention anyway!
      No one came which made it scarier but actually I dont blame them because these boys were big. I don't think people look at each other long enough to even get to the smile though... Yes needless spending is just so draining in so many ways Linda! So let us know how you go - HNY!

      Delete
  13. I'll avoid the schmata but not sure about the chachkes :) and I will smile at everyone, including myself. Enjoy 2014.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Schmata is relatively easy for me but chachkes! Hope you have a fab 2014!

      Delete
  14. puhaha! why does that sign say that? ...!! that is both funny and frightening. that's crazy about the boys thank goodness nothing happened, they must've been gangpes. I have no resolutions bc I have goals I try to shoot for DURING the year. I don't need Jan 1, they're already in effect at random times. Like eat more clean, get more fit, improve my skills, etc etc. I make progress, I fall down get back up etc etc its a neverending project - life!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. teenage boys in groups is a bad mix frankly. I don't want to villainize them too much as I know a most charming most polite teenage boy but I feel he is an exception. But yes - life! I just want to make the most of everything I think. Happy new year and good luck on all your projects Robyn!

      Delete
  15. Oh I hate any kind of street fracas, I always avoid eye contact and move nimbly!
    No resolutions here, I'm a pretty disciplined person, I love order as it helps balance my crazy cat mind.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was a bit of a bumbling fool before - I envy your discipline - ultimately I need more of that. I am still very much an overgrown rebellious child.

      Delete
  16. How frightening! Ugh.I am about embark on a career where I will be shouted at by teenagers all day long.Well,maybe not all day. Anyway I'm glad you were ok after that nasty incident. I smile at strangers CONSTANTLY! Maniacal.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would love to be a teacher - not forever but for a few years. Must be so rewarding. Good luck with it SDM!

      Delete
  17. your objects deserve to be seen and used. And that is awful about the tube xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes as my friend says things need to be celebrated more - not in a superficial way but just as respect to the people who make them :) Hope you had a great new years which we all want to see pics of FF! xx

      Delete
  18. Happy New Year!

    OMG Naomi, that's a scary experience to have anywhere, but in my opinion worse on the underground - I see why you said what you said about bags on my blog now! I'm sorry to hear this happened to you.

    I agree, haven't really set any resolutions this year; a few career and home aspirations but, and it may sound cliche, I am going to calm down the spending and if I have to spend, unlike you it will be in Zara and H&M so that I have more money to spend on immaterial things and interesting experiences. I like the idea of learning a new language and with the money I save I could perhaps spend some time in that country perfecting my new language skills *eyes look up to the ceiling dreamily*

    Please do a video of the open mic act if you choose to do it! xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. p.s. please don't start smiling at strangers on the tube Naomi, please! x

      Delete
    2. People would think I was mad if I smiled so they would leave you alone!

      Yes I think I am a hoarder even though I have edited a lot in the last 6 years. I feel so much lighter not having so much stuff around me so I also want to feel light and unencumbered. I just felt sick to my stomach when I was giving away stuff ( I don't ebay) and all the wasted money when I could have gone on hols instead. But enjoy your beautiful things but I just dont want any more waste is all. I might do an open mic night of karaoke in some random pub just to tick off the list Colleen!! xx

      Delete
  19. Loving your goals for the year Naomi! Here's to No Schmata! I'm chuckling over that one but I think we've all had enough junk, it becomes so easy to avoid any High St. when you walk in a store and think "this is all crap". I have a fear of public speaking though my new volunteer job that I started in October requires me to engage with the public, sometimes in front of a group. I've been enjoying it even if I do get the jitters! Open mic though, I think I'd fall down!
    I've been reading about the New Moon and it looks like it will be helping me with my financial goals this year, I'm very excited about it. I've also decided to stop hoarding clothes and I've been clearing out massive amounts. It feels great I have to say! And BIG YES to using your beautiful things like Hermes scarves!
    I'm very sorry you had that tube encounter, that is so scary. I smile and say hello to people on the street, even the crazy ones, though I do live in a small city. I grew up in a very small town and it was the thing to always smile and acknowledge people, I think it's nice.
    I hope you have an excellent year my friend!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes you are a great motivator on streamlining and also with that blog the minimalists you introduced me I have been inspired and forcibly practicing it the past several months. I am going to have only useful or beautiful things around me like William Morris said. Yes that incident was a bit jolting. I think it is a complex issue where ironically bullying is one of the few times people get noticed and acknowledged and perhaps it is a mutated way of social interaction? But good luck on your goals and sticking to them - we will all remind each other along the way I hope! :)

      Delete
  20. I wonder what your reaction will be when you can see your things again; I'll bet some things will delight you and some will just fall away. MLane and I love to go antiquing so we must restrain ourselves as we need nothing at this point ( so we say, maybe one of the kids would use this--haha)

    I think esp teens act differently in groups than individually sometimes and that can be scary. Glad you are OK; keep smiling!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Interesting point. I am afraid I will be so overwhelmed when unpacking and then I will stash it away again so I am going to do it a box at a time...I loooooove antiquing especially here where the choice and markets and auction houses are packed with goodies. Yes I am getting over it and I will keep smiling - Thank you Lane!

      Delete
  21. I have randomly come across your blog, and ended up reading this post. Your slightly dry sense of humor was a refreshing change from the usual blogs I read. Because of this line, "I probably won't drink 2.5 litres of distilled spring water powered by full moon charged crystals daily", I have book marked your blog, and will be coming back for another visit. You're awesome!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for visiting! You are always welcome Alana :)

      Delete
  22. Keep it fresh and keep it moving. Shall be fun hearing what new challenging adventures you will have this year. Love ya baby.

    ReplyDelete
  23. I try to make resolutions each New Year but am so programmed to the fall being the new year that this is often when I say what I actually mean to do. Show those tube 'bums" how to live well and keep smiling.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Ahhhh Naomi-I always enjoy your humorous take on life. My only resolution I've decided is that #it's enough.
    Designed to reduce stress and increase the feeling of contentment.....oh, and lessen guilt (just like you said). Wish me luck.
    Happy New Year my dear!
    xx, Heather

    ReplyDelete
  25. @BB - yes keep on moving and carry on as they say! I want to see you crossing more things off that list girlfriend! xx

    @Mary - actually I like September resolutions better myself - also I follow the new moon thing so this new year might be easier to keep resolutions than most!

    @Heather - I know what you mean by reduce stress - the burden of extra stuff has given me stress for years and ironically i feel better with it in storage...No guilt and just fun in 2014 for you ok? xx

    ReplyDelete
  26. haha I never make resolution, I just try to do my best and see what happens... I widh you a great year my friendd !!!
    http://www.melolimparfaite.com/

    ReplyDelete
  27. I don't stick to new year resoluTion too,but I did plan to be the best part of me this year,hopefully you Will be able to stick to yours.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. @esosandra - hopefully this year will be about long term changes rather than just for 2014!

      @ Melo - try one's best is probably the best resolution there is to be fair - Bonne annee to you Melo!

      Delete
  28. I loath the tube.
    Get a bike Naomi.
    It's so much better!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I try and walk if I have the time but lately the biking has been bad news wise hasn't it? But also cant handle the weather!

      Delete
  29. I'm glad you're not going to drink 2.5 litres of spring water a day - that much water could poison you! All this stuff about drinking lots of water is a myth because you get loads of water from the food you eat, assuming you don't live on crisps and peanuts. Gorillas don't need to drink any water!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are so right but I have a daily munch on crisps! a banana every other day though...But I am so terrible with water - I love fizzy but not so good for you and central heating dries you out...But i have a long way to go to get there!

      Delete
  30. Teenagers sound awful. Usually there are people around though on the tube?
    You need to use your good things! One of the things that has given me great joy is getting all my kitchen stuff out again. Sitting at our dining table every night, with placemats/ wine glasses and our china has made me so happy. I think living without a kitchen for a few months was a good experience, plus having a crap one for 3 years before that as well - I really, really appreciate and love spending time in the new one. And getting to use all my nice things. I think you'll probably find the same once you've sorted through and unpacked. And you're right - there's no reason why we need as much stuff as we all have. I'm looking forward to getting my bookshelves next, and unpacking my boxes of books. xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No one came - not even the big burly builders - mind you I dont blame them because 5 big teenage boys are threatening as it is - they have no fear.
      I am going to ebay this year I think and also I gave away a piece of luggage to a friend who loves it and would use it more than I ever did which was never. The only thing I was good at it using my plates though. considering how much i eat i like to make a ceremony out of it. I am so envious of your unpacking Heidi!!! Bookshelves? I want to see each shelf...( i am not being facetious either!) xx

      Delete
  31. Only buy something if I love it, or if it's necessary (those white sandals on sale- totally necessary).
    My only wish for you my dear is that you stay as you are- funny, smart and fabulous...
    And those boys deserve a good clip round the ears.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Thanks and yes sometimes necessary is a pair of sandals! X

    ReplyDelete
  33. I had a similar encounter with a group of feral teenage boys on a tram here in Melbourne. It was quite terrifying. Luckily I got off the tram before it escalated further but I'm fearful looking back now as I realized they could have followed me off the tram and I got off at a fairly isolated stop! This was a few years ago now....but if it happened again I think I might be a big more assertive

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's tricky being assertive - i think it is safest only in a fight or flight situation. The transport police said that if no one is coming to your rescue then people won't come if things escalate - always make sure you are sitting near an exit and not in a corner plus try and be near the driver so they can hear you if you need any help. But one must be vigilant for sure. I now don't even stay near goups of boys if I see them I move to the next carriage. Glad nothing serious happened though Anne.

      Delete
  34. Great resolutions, some of which made me LOL! Hope you have the best year! xo Caroline

    ReplyDelete
  35. Naomi, I am with you regarding purchasing this year. Only nice things and only what I need. Started yoga today and I hope I can stick with it. So far, I like the relaxed vibe of it.

    Yikes scary about the the tube. I always thought it was pretty safe. Take care.
    xo Kim

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. P.S. Like that article about smiling at people!

      Delete
    2. It is safe really but it was the first time it happened to me and quite frankly once is enough!! I envy you so much I so want to do yoga but cant seem to start...Keep it up tho! xx

      Delete

Thank you for dropping by!