11 Things I Don't Need in 2011

December 11 – What are 11 things your life doesn’t need in 2011? How will you go about eliminating them? How will getting rid of these 11 things change your life? (Author: Sam Davidson)

I read a book earlier this year called, "Happy," by Ian K. Smith. A large portion of the book focuses on being optimistic as well as putting yourself first, showing gratitude, pursuing your dreams, simplifying your life, and ultimately being happy. At one point in the book, Smith says,"Too many dark clouds can block the most beautiful sunset. Less is often more, and simplifying your life isn't as difficult or as painful as you might think."

Life is full of things I "don't need" and 2011 is fine time to simplify my life in every way I can. Here are my 11 things I don't need in 2011:

1. More friends. I know that probably sounds pretty bitchy but I truly made a lot of connections in 2010 and now I really want to focus on making those relationships better before I start building more.
   
2. Bad health. As much as I love food, I really don't want to be the size of a cow. I have to continue to make working out and eating right a priority. And that doesn't include giving up cupcakes and ice cream either. Moderation, people! Moderation.
3. Negativity. I am pretty certain nobody needs this in their life and I know that I certainly don't either. Life is too short to be anything but happy. But it's also too short to get caught up in the "woe is me." In 2011, I will continue to find the good in every situation, regardless.
4. Structure. Ok, that's some what of a lie. My life definitely needs structure as in organization but I also know that I need more adventure in my life. I need to start living in the moment more.
5. Crazymakers. I read "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron earlier this year. She talks about getting rid of the crazymakers in your life. "Crazymakers are those personalities that create storm centers. They are often charismatic, frequently charming, highly inventive, and powerfully persuasive...Crazymakers like drama. If they can swing it, they are the star. Everyone around them functions as a supporting cast, picking up their cues, their entrances and exits, from the crazymaker's whims." Enough said.
6. Irresponsible finances. I like to shop. I can't even lie about it. I have the, "work hard, play hard" mentality but I definitely think I've reached a point where I need to be a bit more responsible about my finances. I need to pay my credit cards off and save. There's too many things I want to do in life and last time I checked, nothing's free.
7. Guilt. I'm sick of feeling like I "have" to do things - go to events, social gatherings, etc. I have no desire to continue doing things I don't want to do and I'm not going to feel guilty or obligated anymore.
8. Perfection. I think I constantly push myself because I don't ever think what I am doing is good enough. For who? I don't know. But I do know that I need to come to terms with this, sooner than later. Who I am and what I am doing with my life is good enough.
9. Excuses. I am responsible for myself and for my actions and I need to own up to it. No more excuses - it is what it is.
   
10. Worry. It's useless. I believe there is a greater plan and there is truly no sense is worrying about stuff. Things will work out how they should - it's up to me to see the good in how it does actually work out.
    
11. What if's. They can seriously go to hell. There is what happened and there is what didn't happen and there should not be imaginary scenarios and what if's running through my head. They are just false hopes. I need to be realistic.