My round up of 2013: Running, Salsa & Elephants

Note: this post is the second of a 2-part series on what 2013 was all about for me and those that inspired me.

I’ve really enjoyed giving myself the space over the last couple of weeks to reflect back on 2013 (and start planning for 2014!). This is my round up for 2013:

 What did I achieve over the last 12 months that I’m proud of?

• Sticking to a 12 week training program for an off road race even while travelling in Singapore and Thailand for 3 weeks. Running in high humidity and temperatures was a whole different experience.

 

• Completing my longest run (at 16km), even though I got cramp in the first 10 minutes and watched the ENTIRE field pass me by.

•  Being part of The Clave Collective which is an awesome bunch of salsa dancers in Wellington, performing and competing around the country.

• Winning my first photography competition. Even thought it was only the best Christmas holiday photo at my work and even though I have no idea if anyone else entered.

 What am I grateful for in 2013?

The new friends that have come into my life and the opportunities I’ve had to strengthen my old friendships.

What did I learn over the past 12 months?

I’ve learned that freeze dried apple pie is actually quite nice.

I’ve learned that my view of myself can be quite different to how others see me (I’m more critical of myself).

I’ve learned that I can commit to something when I choose to (I’d previously thought of myself as a commitment avoider).

I’ve learned that I need to have more faith in myself.

I’ve learned that I’m very persistent once I’ve set a goal for myself.

I’ve learned that I need to be more flexible with money. Hanging onto it too tightly causes issues.

I’ve learned that the more you face your fears the less power they have.

I’ve learned that I’m my biggest cheerleader and my greatest opponent.

I’ve learned that I get as much joy from looking after homeless dogs as I get looking after rescued elephants.

I’ve learned that the loudest arguments happen in my own head.

I’ve learnt how to do a Suzy Q (one of many new dance moves).

I’ve learned that an online community can be a truly wonderful thing.

I’ve learned that I can go for a 3 hour training run.

I’ve learned that sometimes the best thing to do is go and see a doctor even if you’re convinced that they can’t help.

I’ve learned that I can do what I previously thought was impossible if I give myself the chance.

What do I still need to figure out?

I still need to figure out how to accept that I am of value just the way I am and that my opinions and views are valid. I need to learn how to let go of things that really aren’t that important in the long run. I need to learn how to give myself a break and to be less critical of what I do. I need to learn how to stop feeling the need to justify how I’ve chosen to live my life.

I want to learn how to enjoy the present more. I often overplan/overthink a situation/email/conversation that might happen or might not!

And am I where I want to be?

Not quite. I had wanted to own my own home by now but have yet to be found the right property. I also had thought that I might have met someone who had the potential to be my partner in life and love.

Plenty of fantastic changes to look forward to in 2014!

Thanks again to Natalie MacNeil, Natalie Sisson, Terri Cole and Ultra Runner Girl for the inspiration and great questions that lead to this post.