Summer List

As those who know me well know, I enjoy making lists, usually in the form of numerous sticky notes, but not always! I make bucket lists (for life and for just my college career), lists of things I need to get at the grocery store, lists of things I need to do that day, lists of things my mother has told me I need to take care of, lists of quotes people have said that I think are hilarious, lists of people that I want to write nice notes to, all kinds of lists! 

Well, for this summer, I have made another list. My Summer Self-Improvement List. And this is why: 

I am constantly trying to make myself a better person, to become the best me. Recently, it's almost become obsessive. I am thinking all the time about how to improve myself, figuring out who I want to be and how I'm going to get there. I am a firm believer that a person, with the help of Heavenly Father, holds all the power they will ever need to change themselves. It is completely and totally within our control. If we want to see a change in our lives, then we have to make it! There is nothing holding us back but our own inclinations and habits. Once we realize that the only thing in our way is a mental barrier, suddenly the world seems brighter, things seem easier! I can't even tell you how many moments have I had where I realize (again and again) that I am free to make my own decisions. The only reason I can't do something is because I tell myself I can't. But I am at a point in my life where the only boundaries that are put on me are my own. So why not break those down and build new ones, or don't put any up at all! 

The person I want to be is completely and totally within reach and I am bound and determined to become her! So here is my list. It isn't very long because I wanted it to be reasonable, and this way I'll be sure that I do each thing well instead of being rushed because I "need to check it off" so I can get everything done. 

1. WORK and have a positive attitude about it. Attitude of gratitude my friend goes a long way. 

2. Read all the Jane Austen novels

3. Write in my journal and blog every day

4. Record videos for my roomates

5. Run twice a week

6. Eat healthier - this means breaking my addiction to sugar. It WILL happen. 

There are a few unofficial things on that list as well that I should probably write down so that I have to do them, such as being more gracious, more grateful and less selfish. Yes, that about sums it up. 

And I will complete this list. Some of it will have to still be a work in progress at the end of the summer because, well, they are life goals rather than things that can be finished in a summer. But I want the habit established by the end of the summer, that is the goal.