Being Deliberate

A new year is upon us. While I don't do formal resolutions for the year, I continue to remember keys things I want to work on: controlling expectations/enthusiasm, have strong opinions which are weakly held, working on priorities, and continuously grow as an individual.

For any resolution you may have, being deliberate about achieving those goals is critical.

You have to apply yourself each day to becoming a little better. By applying yourself to the task of becoming a little better each and every day over a period of time, you will become a lot better. - John Wooden

For some targets, getting started will be the most difficult part; for others, repeating and continuing the tedious routine will demanding. For all of the resolutions, there has to be a sense of purpose, rather than doing something just to be doing it. It's silly to expect different results if we do the same thing over and over. I know I have fallen into that trap on multiple occasions.

To improve my photography skills, I've changed how I look at photos and things in the real world. I deliberately look at the lighting, the composition, and depth of field of the photo. If it's a photo, I think of the settings of the camera that were used. I think of what could be improved and which aspects I like. I've done it so often that it's my natural reaction when looking at everything now.

When I watch sports (particularly with golf and tennis), I closely watch what the athletes are doing. Then, I analyze what I would do in that situation or how I can imitate their form to improve. I'm actively looking for ways to improve my own skills the next time I go out there and play myself. (See it. Do it)

While it is nice to have people support you with tons of praise, people who can challenge you to become even better may be even more important. Surround yourself with people who will encourage and help you to grow.