Thoughts for 2010

I've never been a big believer in New Year's Resolutions. I've never really liked the idea of, what feels like, setting your year in stone before it's even begun. I've always thought my situation would be ever-evolving, with new stimulus always hurtling towards me, negating the purpose of resolving to tick off a list, one by one.

This time around though, it feels a little different. I'm 23, single and earning enough money to pay my bills - but not enough to holiday, shopping spree or have more than one little outing a week. And by June 20 this year, I don't want to have kept the same situation - the only difference being one more birthday notched on my belt. 

I had/have a friend who doesn't believe people my age should strive for love or money. He threw all of that away to go in search of the true identity of his inner self. While it would be wonderful to think that one could be completely happy by 23 without the security of an income, or the arms of another in which to fall asleep, I simply don't think it is possible. And it's not just having the highs - the lows make you know how much you need to treasure the highs. By throwing away the external and looking only within yourself, can you really know all there is to know? I don't think so.

While I hope 2010 brings me more highs than the lows, challenges, learning experiences (apparently I should blame Saturn) of 2009, what I want most for next year is to feel respected - in everything from intimate relationships to work to my home life. It is my "resolution" for 2010 that I will find the balance between hard-lined bitch and soft-shelled doormat. I won't cave to the demands of those who say they love but simply want their feet rubbed. Wants and needs must be met with action. While you might not find yourself simply by searching within, I will prove that you can certainly change the course of your future by using the strength of your inner self - whoever she is.