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Thursday, January 20, 2011

I Need a Hobby

Now that my life is absent of internships, papers, and coursework, I have time to actually focus on something. And that "something" cannot be the gym, watching three back-to-back episodes of Two and a Half Men, or reading.

I always fumbled on the "what are your hobbies?" question on job interviews. Because, honestly, I don't have one set thing I like to do (and napping is not an appropriate hobby). In the past, I've tried many different activities. For instance, I was really into making jewelry for awhile. However, I've since forgotten everything I learned in the summer class I look three years ago.

I enjoy interior design. I thought perhaps I could get into refinishing furniture. I started to refinish a cabinet in October. It's January, and I'm still not finished. Of course there was baking at one point, though that went by the way-side. I attempted painting, but when you suck, it just isn't fun.

My problem is that I am incredibly impatient, and I have the attention span of a two year old. I get bored easily of things, and I can't sit still and focus for long amounts of time. (Ask anyone who has ever tried to watch a movie with me. Unless I'm riveted to the screen, I'm up walking around after 20 minutes.)

I think I'd like redecorating an apartment...but I don't have one. My mother suggested I redo my room at home. I told her that was not happening because I plan on moving out...in the next year (or decade).

Therefore, if you have any suggestions...please share.

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Oh Hayyyy, 2011

Gawd. Another year has come and gone. It sounds cliche, but where did the time go? Honestly. At this time last year, I was waiting to return to college after Christmas break. I had no stable means of income. I had never worn jeggings.

2010 will always be a special year for me because I graduated college. When you're in the thick of academia, graduating doesn't seem like such a big deal. However, now that I am not spending my time in school and can look back, man, I'm pretty damn proud of myself. Additionally, I landed my first job. It still baffles me sometimes that I have clients...that companies pay me to do public relations work for them...whoa. I'm a big girl?

Normally, I don't make resolutions because I have never in my life kept them. Last year, I vowed to write in a journal, swim laps, and practice meditation...about that... I am attempting to banish my self doubt in 2011 and actually accomplish my resolutions. Below, are my goals for the new year.

1) Take care of my body. Everyone and their mom makes this kind of resolution, but I vow to stick to it this year. My hopes are to find an exercise program I really love and workout at least 3 times per week. In addition, I shall attempt to eat more whole grains instead of white, processed flour. I will replace soda with water (though I am will not give up coffee, never). Also, I need to learn to relax, so add that to the list too. My past massage - which left me with broken blood vessels in my neck and shoulders, as a result of insane tension - made me realize that I have to find a way to chill out.

2) Become more confident at work. As I said earlier, it is still insane to me that people pay for my advice. At times, I feel overwhelmed and unsure of my abilities. I have to remember that I possess the skills to succeed. As one of my professors said, "Allison, you have all the tools you need...you just have to believe in yourself."

3) Manage my finances. I'm the butt of all jokes when it comes to managing money. Blame it on my grandmother's genes or the fact that I would rather light my hair on fire than sit and do math. In any case, I suck at money management. This must change. I am on the road to becoming a big girl, and big girls balance their checkbooks, efficiently pay off their college loans, and save to move out of their parents' home. Which brings me to my next resolution...

4) Move out! I love my parents dearly, but it's time to peace out. I lived on my own for 4 years in college and managed to feed and clothe myself, get to class/learn/etc, and manage to return home alive and well. However, my mother does not seem to understand that. Also, my own space means lots of awesome things like picking out furniture at Ikea. Mmmm affordable, Swedish furniture. Therefore, assuming my money situation is under control, I hope to change addresses in 2011.

So, if you're reading this and need a workout buddy/conduct personal finance classes/or have a spare couch lying around, please, let me know.