What I Learned This Year

The #1 thing is to make choices about time allocation based on how it impacts my mood.

Continually, and gradually, phase out sources of stress. I've been chipping away since 2000.

Making an effort is worth it -- having an exceptional marriage, loving kids and a lot of self-directed time requires a commitment to gradual self-improvement.

Twenty years ago, I was lousy at most of what gives me pleasure today.

What is the system that gives me the energy required to endure the discomfort of change?

• Sleep

• Eat huge salads

• Daily movement in nature

• Relate to the world in my best environment

• Perform small acts of kindness

• Don't compete

There's an article in each bullet and I'll get to them December.

***The stuff we put in our lives is important for what it displaces***

We are really poor at seeing the cost of the status quo.

At 47, athletic competition inserts fatigue, removes me from my children, impairs my sex drive and eliminates my willpower.

If you are a sociopath with tendencies towards addiction, promiscuity and petty crime... then adding athletic competition might be a very wise move indeed!

Pay attention to what works.

Then, pay attention when it stops working.

Finally, I'm a good parent but I don't always enjoy parenting.

I think we should be more honest about the way things are.