My To Do list often looks like this:

• Laundry
• Clean closets
• Finish garden project
• Fix clogged sink
• Breathe

At the end of the day, if I didn’t tend to the laundry, closets, garden or sink, I can still cross off, breathe and feel good about it. For 2017, I wanted a to make a no fail resolution. One that is guaranteed to be successful – Like adding, breathe, to a To Do list.

After some thought, I decided my  2017 New Year’s Resolution is to make mistakes. The more I let this decision sink in, the more I liked it.  Here’s my updated To Do list:

• Laundry
• Clean closets
• Finish garden project
• Fix clogged sink
• Breathe
• Make a mistake

At the end of each day, I can cross off 2 items. I’ll be twice as productive!

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On a serious note:  

I’m not afraid of mistakes.  Mistakes have aided in my personal and professional growth and I’m grateful for them. For years, I’ve been activity promoting Carol Dweck’s & Jo Boaler’s work with growth mindset.  First at home with my children, then in the classroom and recently as a middle level math TOA/coach.

Although I joke about being twice as productive, there’s some truth to the statement. If I acknowledge the learning connected to the mistake, then each error in judgement, each incorrect move, each trial was not in vain.  They’re experiences to be valued for they’ll help me make better decisions in the future.

As 2016 draws to a close and the new year begins, I wish everyone a happy 2017 filled with joy, love and mistakes!

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