The One About Celebrating 2024 New Year’s Day A Second Time Today

/ Ally Bean

~ • ~

Here’s what you need to know.

Regardless of the day of the year I’m not one to make resolutions, a word I’d define as an official proclamation announcing what you plan on doing henceforth.

However I do, from time to time, set general goals about what I want to accomplish in the future, but I don’t think of these general goals as hard and fast objectives. They’re more like gentle nudges in a better direction.

My nudges aren’t SMART [specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound], an approach to setting goals that I remember learning about in college. Instead my nudges are DUMB [doable, useful, memorable, and basic], an acronym I just invented in this moment.

As creative people often do.

Making it up as you go along, noticing the possibilities at hand, relying a bit on your intuition.

Being a pantser, in a word.

Anyhoo… 

Today, if I understand this correctly, is a significant day according to astrology, a belief system based on celestial bodies such as moon phases. One leans into astrology to explain what one should expect in one’s future.

[And doesn’t the use of the word ‘one’ instead of the word ‘you’ sound pretentious? I suddenly feel like Dr. Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory, speaking formally, being haughty.]

Moving along, the bottom line here is that today’s new moon will be the last new moon for 15 years that we’ll see in Capricorn [the time frame starting December 22nd, ending January 19th]. Thus it’s a big deal for astrologers.

Meanwhile according to numerology, the belief that there is a correlation between certain numbers and coinciding events, today’s date, 111, is a number that means new beginnings. And that, too, is a big deal in certain circles.

You may read more about how these two concepts dovetail together here: The New Moon In Capricorn Is Here To Start 2024 Off Right

Regardless of my ambivalence about astrology and my nonchalance regarding numerology, from the foregoing I learned that today’s message to one and all is: “It’s go time!”

And I like this message. Don’t you?

I feel empowered.

It gives me the opportunity to have what I’m thinking of as a 2024 New Year’s Day do-over, secure in the fact that this time I’ve got the planets behind me, or above me I guess, and that I’m ready to be determined to reach my 2024 goals nudges.

Once I figure out what they might be. 😉

~ • ~

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Are you celebrating this second 2024 New Year’s Day today? If so, how?

Do you have any goals [or nudges] for 2024? If so, what are some of them?

Are you finding that this is the most uninspiring January that has ever existed in all of time? If not, which one was worse?

~ ~ • ~ ~

220 thoughts on “The One About Celebrating 2024 New Year’s Day A Second Time Today”

  1. I love January. I think astrology is silly. I rarely make resolutions, and never choose “a word” to guide me through the year. After all, if I make one word more important that the others, think of all the possibilities that might be lost!

    That said, I do have a sort-of resolution for this year. Each month, I’m going to do one thing that I’ve never done before. Eventually, I’ll publish the list, but I’m only up to six. The cool thing is they make me laugh. For example: my January new-thing-to-do is watching the movie “Jaws,” which I’ve never seen. It’s perfect for the next week of no work because of sub-freezing temperatures.

    Liked by 5 people

    • Linda, it’s gray here now, wet and bleak, but not sub-freezing… yet? January can be sunny and snowy, beautiful here, but not this year.

      I’m not into astrology but I enjoy reading about it. I get some good ideas from random horoscopes, not necessarily mine though. I usually choose a word of the year, didn’t do so last year, and had a lousy year. Don’t know that two are necessarily correlated but there you have it.

      I like your sort-of resolution approach to resolutions. I hope watching Jaws brings you joy. I saw it decades ago and was properly scared while watching it. I look forward to reading your list when you put it together.

      Liked by 4 people

      • It’s amazing that we’re going to hit the deep freeze before you are. At this point, we’re heading to the low 20s with possible freezing rain for a couple of days. The operative phrase, of course, is “couple of days.”

        Liked by 4 people

        • In many years past during January we’ve had temps in the teens and enough white snow to make the outdoors look spectacular. BUT this year it is so drab here. Freezing rain can be tricky, but at least it suggests it is wintertime.

          Liked by 4 people

    • I love winter.

      I recently learned that astrology was developed in ancient Mesopotamia because their lives were so unpredictable due to the weather, the floods (that seemed eerily timed to do the most damage to their crops…) that they yearned for some explanation for the fickleness of nature. And once they developed it, they believed it. Randomness is difficult?

      Here’s a jaws trivia: you’ll notice that none of the actors wears red, that the sets have as little as red as possible. Not a coincidence. Part of Spielberg’s exceptional ability!

      Liked by 6 people

      • EW, I like winter when it behaves like I think winter should: temps in the 20s, snow, sunshine most days. I’d be happy about that but this wet, bleak, gray, dreary stuff is depressing, like the season isn’t living up to its potential.

        I didn’t know the origins of astrology. I know that there are different systems of astrology beyond the planetary astrology we think of as astrology. For instance in Chinese astrology you’re an animal, in Druid astrology you’re a tree. Then depending on which kind of astrology you follow you’re bunched together into slightly different groupings of time.

        Your trivia about Jaws is interesting. I don’t think I’ll rewatch it to confirm, I trust that you know what you’re talking about.

        Liked by 2 people

        • Interesting stuff about different astrologies. I know about the origins of astrology in ancient Mesopotamia, but I didn’t know about how the other astrologies came to be. I wonder if it originated from the same need?

          I’ve never actually seen the movie Jaws in full (you can’t escape excerpts here and there and know that you’ll need a bigger boat 😁) but I do love trivia, and that stuck with me. Still not enough to drive me to watch it, even for the first time.

          Liked by 1 person

  2. Yesterday I was thinking how slow January was going. Ay my age I shouldn’t be wishing time away. I can’t imagine setting a goal far in advance – I’m having problems setting a goal for the day. Wishing and hoping, I’ve got that down pat. For 2024 I have to create a whole new life and that is more than a bit daunting since I have no idea what that should look like and I’m out of practice.

    As for astrology – I think it’s silly yet – the personality descriptions for each sign seem so spot on…or do we simply adjust our perceptions to suit the description?

    Liked by 5 people

    • Grace, January can be fun around here, but this year it’s just drippy and gray. I understand about not setting goals too far in the future. If I learned anything from the pandemic, and I learned loads, it was that making specific plans too far ahead is dodgy. I don’t know how I’d go about creating a whole new life, but I’m sure you’ll figure it out.

      I think astrology is silly too but once in a while I check my horoscope. It rarely is spot on for the day, but sometimes the gist of it resonates. Like you I wonder if I adjust my thinking to accommodate it.

      Liked by 3 people

  3. Since I didn’t really celebrate the first time round, I guess I will also skip it the second time around. I’m kinda lazy that way. I don’t plan any changes for a new year. I don’t try to make every day meaningful instead I just aim to make every day enjoyable and because I love my fairly quiet existence, that doesn’t take much effort.

    Liked by 5 people

    • Jenn, we are birds of a feather. I’m not much for celebrating NYE and the first day of the year, but I stumbled over the article and thought maybe I should try to be festive today. A second chance.

      I like your approach to making every day enjoyable. I live a quiet life, too, and if there’s no overarching meaning in it, so be it.

      Liked by 3 people

  4. I always have goals…but they’re almost always the same year to year so it’s not a stretch. My big thing is finishing my second draft. I tend to not like Jan and feb…weather, etc. So I plan a lot of things for Jan and feb ahead of time. Things to look forward to and plan and enjoy. It helps a lot

    Liked by 4 people

  5. The best thing about January for me is that my son was born 36 years ago. Other than that it’s just another month, and usually a cold one at that. So, no I am not celebrating a 2nd NY day as I didn’t even really celebrate the first…being in bed around 10pm.

    I don’t set goals, at least not long term goals of any magnitude really, but I do have intentions to get a few things accomplished over the first half of this year. The biggest one being figuring out social security and medicare so I can start those in the fall. Come to think of it, that might have actually been a long term goal now for a few years…oops! I think that means I lied at the top of this paragraph, or that I really have no clue what I’m doing from one day to the next 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    • Deb, I didn’t stay up on NYE either. I don’t tend to celebrate much of anything that means staying awake past 9:00 p.m. I figure celebrating this date during the day is easy, no late bedtime.

      Good point about longterm goals versus shorter ones. I tend to see the word ‘goal’ and my rebellious mind shuts down. Nudges I can deal with. Figuring out SS and Medicare are a necessary evil, so I hope you are able to do so without pulling your hair out. I’ve heard stories… 🫤

      Liked by 3 people

      • I’ve been researching and studying for some time already so I really just have to fine tune and pick a starting date somewhere around my birthday in September. It will all be fine I’m sure.

        Sometimes a moment of rebellion is needed, but here’s to nicer nudges in general 🙂

        Liked by 3 people

  6. January is not my favorite month. Too cold (mostly but not this year so far), can’t depend on weather so plans change on a dime. I don’t make resolutions for New Year’s but I will make a plan anytime I think one needs to be made. To answer your questions — no, no, yes.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Kate, I’d be okay with cold if there was some sunshine and snow to go with it, but this year the weather is just blah… and I’m feeling cranky because of it. I’m good at making plans to solve problems, too. I don’t do the big deal resolutions, but give me a pad of paper and something practical that needs to be done & I’m on it.

      Liked by 3 people

  7. Those are interesting astrological observations which I didn’t know. In general I don’t want to believe in astrology, but then I remind myself that the moon moves the tides, and since my body is mostly water, it must affect me too, right?
    Anyway, I usually do pick a word for the year, but this year all I can come up with a phrase, and that phrase is, “Ah, f*#! it.”
    I guess that answers your question about whether this is the most uninspiring January ever. (I am recovering from COVID, hoping I will feel more inspired once I’ve managed to vanquish it, which is taking a while.)

    Liked by 3 people

    • Arlene, I stumbled over the article and found it fascinating. I don’t necessarily follow my horoscope, but normal planetary changes and the meaning of today’s number piqued my curiosity. Could be something to it, I suppose. Does no harm to contemplate it at least.

      I’m sorry you’re struggling with Covid, that is lousy. Obviously. I rather like your phrase of the year. There’s a truth to it that can extend into many aspects of life.

      Liked by 3 people

  8. I am in LOVE with your DUMB acronym. It is perfect and I can get behind it. I feel exhausted by the prospects of SMART goals, but DUMB ones… yes.

    This January IS terrifically uninspiring. What is the deal?! The only worse one I can think of was January 2021, when my kid was back to remote learning for an unspecified amount of time, and we both hated remote learning and life felt barely bearable. (Bearly bareable???) So. This isn’t THAT, and I am thankful.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Suzanne, I’m glad my acronym rings true with you. I know most people are all about SMART goals, but I learned that in a business class I didn’t like so I have negative feelings about it. *snarl*

      Yes you had a much worse January 2021, I can see that. I agree with your assessment of this January: terrifically uninspiring. I feel better knowing I’m not alone feeling grumpy about this month.

      Liked by 3 people

  9. To answer your question, I’m not celebrating today, but I/We did on Tuesday, celebrate the birthday of CareBear Cliff.

    I espouse your approach to goal-setting: “gentle nudges in a better direction.” I won’t be publishing another book this year, but I will continue blogging, which I love.
    And, no, Ally, I don’t think of you as haughty. No, never!

    Liked by 3 people

    • Marian, a January birthday deserves all the celebrating it can get. Cliff was born close to Christmas and often early January babies get overlooked.

      As for my nudge approach to moving forward, you can do it! It takes the pressure off achieving and puts it on living. At least that’s how I think of it.

      Liked by 3 people

  10. I don’t believe in astrology or signs from above, but I am willing to take inspiration where I can find it. Is January going slowly? I don’t know. It would be nice if it were, some months just seem to SPEED by and you can’t catch your breath. I guess that’s what the depths of winter should be, slowing down to catch your breath.

    I like your idea of nudges. I’m nudging myself by participating in a couple of fitness ‘challenges’ and am enjoying them. Perhaps I’ll nudge them into February.

    Liked by 3 people

    • J, astrology and numerology are interesting but I don’t exactly spend my time reading their predictions. I stumbled over the article and found it worthy of note, just ‘cuz I liked its positive vibe during this bleak wet January. I take my inspiration where I can find it.

      You’re nudging in a way that makes sense to me. I haven’t done a fitness challenge in years, would be a good way to make February fly by. If our January is this dull, I fear February will be even more so.

      Liked by 2 people

  11. I gave up seeing the new year in for the most part unless my grandkids are here and make me! I much prefer watching the sun rise on the new year. Don’t need to do that twice in a month.
    January is usually cold and grey here, but this year I had cataract surgery, and I can see clearly now, so the world is a wonder.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Dorothy, your January sounds like it’s going well. Congrats on seeing clearly, even if it is just shades of gray. I don’t plan on doing much of anything to celebrate this day other than acknowledging it is unique according to astrology and numerology.

      Liked by 3 people

  12. No resolutions over here, either. I’m not a big fan of January, either, since it’s so expectant of “big goals.” If I need to make a change, I do it as required and not because of a calendar date. Right now, I’m debating whether I’m going to go full-vegetarian (I’m about 80% right now) which is much more about the state of the planet and not the year-change. Cheers.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Lynette, I like January when it’s pretty outside with snow and sunshine, but this year it is bleak and soggy and is harshing my mellow, as they used to say. I agree wholeheartedly about making personal changes because it’s time to do so, not because you hung a new calendar on the wall. Internal motivation trumps external dictates every time. Best of luck with your vegetarian goal, no matter how you envision it.

      Liked by 2 people

  13. Here’s what I love about your writing, dear Ally. I didn’t start reading this with any mood or goals in mind, just a day ahead of me. And this post made me laugh, think, and feel energized for “it’s go time.” No, I don’t particularly follow astrology and I don’t have a specific target but now I’m raring to go somewhere…just like you, once I figure out where.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Wynne, thanks for the compliment. I like to write about what is meandering through my mind and the article got me thinking about looking at life differently. I think the idea that “it’s go time” is a powerful nudge that is vague enough to apply to any situation, yet seems like a good mantra.

      Liked by 1 person

    • I felt the same!! The general tone, humor, and energy was inspiring and your enthusiasm in spite of your ambivalence toward astrology and such. It was such a fun little pep talk to start the year.

      Liked by 2 people

      • Erin, I’m chuckling about how this post is a pep talk, yet that makes me pleased that I hit publish on it. I feared it might be a little too off the wall. Whatever gets us through this month, eh?

        Liked by 2 people

  14. I’m not into astology. I’m not celebrating a second New Year today. I don’t do New Year’s resolutions. I’m fairly focused in general and I tend to make lists of things I want to accomplish fairly regularly, so I don’t feel like choosing yearly goals in January is all that necessary. That being said, I’d like to make some headway on my manuscript. I’ve gotten to the final chapters and I’d like to complete it soon-ish. Hopefully in 2024. I’d also like to create a housework schedule that includes ALL the people who live here, spread the love and all that. Fingers crossed.

    I really like you DUMB acronym. Well said.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Ernie, I wouldn’t say I’m into astrology or numerology, but reading the article got my mind pondering so that’s good. I make lists, too, however I don’t attach any items on the list to any specific goal. Nudges, baby, that’s what those lists are about.

      I hope you have the opportunity to complete your manuscript this year. It’s been a while in the making. Perhaps after your housework schedule is fully implementing you’ll have the time you need.

      I like my DUMB acronym too. It seems easy to remember, practical to do…

      Liked by 1 person

  15. I pay no attention to astrological stuff except for full moons when I know I’ll need a sleeping pill if I want to sleep. Still, I found your blog topic interesting because I do enjoy learning about new (to me) things.

    As for goals this year I didn’t make resolutions like I’ve done for nearly all my life. In recent years I’ve been using a mantra to guide me. This year mantra is: Start Where You’re at. For me, that means not compare myself and skill sets to where I was in my prime. It’s okay to still enjoy doing certain things even if I’m no longer as good at doing them.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jean, so far no commenter seems to be into astrology or numerology. I’m not one to follow either unless I stumble over an article and it makes me think about life a little differently. Like this one did.

      Your mantra is perfect. I like it and need to add it to my tool box of sayings about how to gracefully deal with life. It’s better than a resolution, more realistic, while inspiring at the same time. Very nice.

      Liked by 1 person

  16. I’m a fan of any list. Acronyms are OK, too, though I don’t love them as much as the military does. As for New Years, well, if this one doesn’t work out either, there is always Chinese/ Lunar New Year and the Chinese zodiac signs for another new start if you need one. And it’s the year of the Dragon.

    Liked by 2 people

    • AutumnAshbough, I like lists, too. From what I can tell everyone here is a fan, the only issue being whether the list links back to specific goals or gentle nudges. I thought about the Chinese New Year as I wrote this. Didn’t know it was going to be the year of the Dragon, but I like it.

      Liked by 2 people

  17. Eeeeps, I would’ve been the second person to respond IF I’d completed my comment and SENT it. Now it’s gone, like a scone. Thanks Ally Bean. Maybe that’s the message for me, complete things begun.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Susan, I’m sorry you lost your second spot, but also laughing about it. I do what you did too. I think I sent a comment, then realize I got distracted and didn’t. I like your conclusion, I need to adopt that attitude, too. I’m scattered too often.

      Liked by 1 person

  18. For 2024, I’m halfway between a word and a resolution ~ my focus this year is to LET GO!

    LET GO of anything that isn’t working to enhance my life. LET GO of physical clutter, stale grievances, unpleasant memories, and any and all other detritus of life that has outstayed its welcome or is getting in the way of making the most of THIS moment.

    For example, I shredded an entire notebook containing 30+ years of Christmas Newsletters and related biographical notes because reading over the collection skewed my perspective of past pathways. Among other failings, they paid too much attention to “closing doors” (i.e., deaths in the family, deaths of pets, leaving jobs, moving, etc.) and not nearly enough on the day to day JOY of being alive. Moreover, the annual missives failed to capture the essence of who we are NOW.

    Why keep hanging on to bits and bobs of the past that tend to detract from our enjoyment of the present?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Nancy, I like how you’ve melded the concept of resolutions with the concept of a word of the year to create your own empowering phrase. And it’s a good motivating principle at that. Applicable to many areas in life.

      I get what you’re talking about with your newsletters. A couple of years ago I shredded my Artists Way morning page notebooks that I’d kept for too long. They added no value to my current life. I blessed them for getting me to this point, then shredded them. It was liberating to let go of the past.

      One of my favorite quotes about getting rid of stuff is from Alexandra Stoddard: “Life is too short for you to be the caretaker of the wrong details.”

      Liked by 1 person

        • I remember meeting a woman who said that she grew up in a house that was curated like a museum exhibit. Her mother was obsessed with appearances. This woman said her priority when she left home was to make sure her home was eclectic. From her artistic temperament I imagined it was.

          Liked by 2 people

  19. Our January is so not pretty this year. There are moments that last maybe 24 hours and then they are dashed by rain and crap. Nope, not a lovely one at all. It is only the 11th so hopefully it will change.
    I’m not big on resolutions, either. Astrology interests me only in how certain personalities of peeps really do seem to fit their sign. I don’t know what it means when whatever is in retrograde so we can blame all shite on it…
    As for me, I have decided to set a few goals this year. I’ve incorporate some much better eating habits as well as cut down the booze – completely – for the rest of January (only decided this past Sunday) and then after, will continue to go easy. Not that I do that much but it was more than I like. I’ve also modified my eating habits big time. Working on improving my gut health, so to speak. So far, am rather pleased with myself!
    Last thing is, I want to increase my reading. Just taking the time away from the computer and enjoy a book for more than the fifteen minutes before bed I’ve been allotting myself!
    Not too bad for “nudges” or doable goals, methinks!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dale, I’ve seen your photos on IG of your January and it is gloomy. More than ours, truth be told, you poor dear.

      I don’t know enough about astrology to put together family and friend’s birthdates and the personality profiles for those dates. I can understand how that’d be interesting. I used to go to a LMT who tried to explain to me what the retrograde phenomenon meant. I still don’t get it entirely, nor do I feel like I need to figure it out.

      Your goals are doable, very spot on to improving yourself through your own actions. I hope your gut appreciates your efforts and you feel good in the process.

      I want to read more books, too. I read so much on computer screens because of blogging, that my actual book reading time is as little as yours. I shall nudge myself to do better, starting today the day when we’re meant to say: “It’s go time!”

      Liked by 2 people

      • It has, hasn’t it? Good grief…

        I will be honest here. I know the temperaents of Virgos (am surrounded by DamnVirgos, as I call them) and Aries, like me. There are a few Libras that I’m starting to see a pattern. Other than that, I’m useless!!

        They are, aren’t they. It’s already appreciating my efforts to there is no reason to stop. I’m surprised I already feel a difference (and am down 3 lbs to boot!)

        Exacty! I say I read the equivalent of a novel per day just online. But it’s not the same as curling up in a comfy chair/sofa and concentrating on the book in hand. That’s what I want more of. I see how many books some people read and I can remember when that was me. Now? I’ve not been able to read 24 in a year!! Nope.

        Liked by 2 people

        • It makes sense that you know the temperaments of the people around you, especially if they’re all the same sign. And of course you’d know what astrology knows about your own sign.

          Good job on losing a few pounds. And yes I feel like I’d prefer to be reading more books, but am torn because blogging takes so much of my reading time. My eyes only focus for so long, says she who is getting older every day.

          Liked by 2 people

          • Yeah. And then when I had trouble with certain bosses and come to realise they were DamnVirgos to, it all made sense 😉

            Thank you. And yes. Blogging takes up SO much reading time. We needs must find some balance 😉

            Liked by 2 people

  20. I pay attention to the Moon and stars because they’re pretty and I like to photograph them.
    Using “one” instead of you I do. I got in that habit while learning French. They use the pronoun “on” for one, you, someone, they, etc. and sometimes “one” just fits the sentence or context better than using you to me anyway.

    I have set some goals for the year we’ll see how I do. I fell short of meeting all my goals that set for myself last year maybe I’ll do a bit better this year.
    I’m doing dry January, and I am going to try to get out more on my own to do photography. I really would rather be with people it’s more fun, and I’m going to try and fill up another sketch book while working on angles, and perspective. I fell short of last year’s goal of filling up a sketch book by 4 pages so fingers crossed this year I actually fill one up.
    I need to lose some pounds as well so will be counting my calories more this year and hopefully nudging that scale number down a bit.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deborah, your reason for watching planetary bodies is a good one. I approve, like you need my approval. I didn’t know that about the French language. I wrote what I said, then stepped back and thought why the heck am I writing like this? Not my usual casual approach here.

      Your goals sound wonderful. They’re doable yet not so heavy as to weigh you down with details. I hope you’re able to snap more photos and sketch more angles in 2024. Weight loss is a major goal this time of year. Of course with less alcohol calories it may just happen magically.

      Liked by 2 people

  22. I don’t believe in astrology, so that’s out. I enjoy number patterns such as 123123 on that last day of last year or 22722 miles on the odometer recently or 12:34 pm, but not numerology. January has been busy for me so I’m mostly sad/astonished at how quickly it’s flying by.

    I like learning new things, so panster, SMART, and DUMB were fun. My goals for January are to connect with friends, either by phone, FaceTime, or in-person, pack a box or more each day in preparation for the move to my parents’ home once the renovation is complete, or to declutter something each day. That’s more than enough for me!

    Great to see a post from you again, Ally. I know you had one yesterday or the day before, but I ran out of blogging time. ☹️

    Happy 2024!

    janet

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janet, I don’t put much heed into astrology either, but I find some of the horoscopes turn out to be great writing prompts. I don’t know much about numerology per se, but like you enjoy seeing numerical sequences when I notice them.

      I didn’t know you were moving. Your approach to packing up is smart. Do it in bits and pieces instead all at once, still it’s a lot of work.

      Thanks for stopping by to read and comment. I love hearing from you when you have the chance. I don’t take attendance here so worry not about that. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

      • My parents both passed away about two years ago, so when the extensive renovation is done? We’ll move from our rental into the house. It’s only about 30 minutes from where we live now. Still in Arizona.

        I know you don’t take attendance but I always look forward to a post from you.

        Liked by 2 people

  23. If I’m being honest, I’m never inspired by January. Grey skies will do that to a person (as I believe I hinted at on your IG post). I’m not one for resolutions. My goals revolve around having fun, spending time with family/friends, traveling, and going to concerts. Not very cerebral. Just trying to enjoy my remaining years of life.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Bijoux, no one so far seems to like gray skies or make resolutions. I’m preaching to the choir here. Your goals sound doable and no doubt will make you happy. To me that seems like the best way to evaluate a goal: are you better off because you achieved it?

      Liked by 1 person

  24. I do believe there are truths in astrology, not that I read or put full faith in my horoscope. Today is my daughter’s birthday 1/11/92, 9+2 is 11. I married my 1st husband for the second time on 11/11/11, not that I’m a numerologist.

    I like the idea of both the SMART goal and the DUMB nudge, but mostly I’m for whatever works!

    Happy New Moon, Ally!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Crystal, you well could be right about astrology. I don’t dismiss it out of hand and like to read horoscopes once in a while. I find that even if it isn’t my own horoscope the ideas get me thinking in a different way. They’re prompts for me.

      Your numbers are wild. Look at them, all kind of the same, yet from random events. Good point about going with whatever works, not getting hung up on goals versus nudges.

      Happy New Moon to you too!

      Liked by 2 people

  26. I’m going out to a British coffee shop for lunch with a friend, during which I’ll drink too much French press coffee and eat pastries. Oh, and have some potato leek soup and a scone too. Or a pasty. I love DUMB because it’s how I roll. As I mentioned in my blog, I don’t do resolutions but do intentions. Good ones, mostly.

    Liked by 2 people

  28. I love the DUMB goals. I should make a resolution to remember that. I knew nothing about the second “new year” and on occasion when I’ve felt the need to resolve anything, I usually do closer to the start of spring. That’s my new year. Happy New New Year!

    Liked by 2 people

  29. I love everything about this post, Ally! DUMB is such a great acronym and I had no idea about the moon phase, I tend to gravitate to the full moons, not the new moons for some reason. You know that I make vision cards instead of resolutions. I have finished them for this year and will be posting shortly about them. January is a bleak month for me but not because of the weather. While my parents were married on January 11, both also passed away in January. Miss them a lot.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janet, I’m glad this post resonated with you. It was fun to write, feeling the need to let the world know about this last Capricorn new moon and its magical numerical connection. I know you keep track of full moons, to tap into their energy, and that you make vision cards. Both are cool.

      I’m sorry January has the sad connotation that it does for you. Odd that both your parents died in the same month, but at different times? Not together, right?

      Liked by 2 people

      • No, not together. 40 years apart. It was very odd. At first when my mom got sick we thought she might pass on their anniversary but she held on for another 3 days and died on the 14th of January. Dad had passed 40 years earlier on January 17.

        Liked by 1 person

  31. The answer to your first two questions, as you might suspect, is “no.” I honestly didn’t know today was significant, or that we were supposed to do anything….

    This January, so far, is no more and no less inspiring than any of its predecessors, for me anyway.

    Liked by 1 person

    • John, once I read the article I felt like I needed to at least consider today to be the first day of the year. Again. Our January has been gray and dreary and wet, not snowy. It’s been more like February than it should. Kind of weird.

      Liked by 2 people

  33. I’m working on learning to love January. It’s much harder to love January than December, but I’m trying. Maybe that’s my resolution? Your description of your unusual January sounds much like our typical one; snow is not common where I live. My resolution will be put to the test in coming days, as freezing rain is in the forecast. Ugh. I’m hoping we keep power, as I’m just not in the mood for dealing with no heat. I like the idea of a monthly resolution more than a yearly one. Maybe I’ll resolve to do that, too.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Rita, I just replied to your comment on IG and now here you are. Kismet. I usually like January but that’s when it is sunny and snowy most days. This year is dreary, like your typical January it sounds like. I’m sorry for your upcoming freezing rain. We briefly lost power twice on Tuesday, but since then it seems to be back. No heat is no fun. I do like your idea of a monthly resolution. I might be able to do that.

      Liked by 2 people

      • I’m working on noticing the light. I’m appreciating root vegetables and soup. I look for the beauty you can find in spareness, and the sound of rain on the roof. I work on appreciating that I have a roof and heat and food. A few years back I lost power for an entire week, and no heat was more than awful. (Luckily, I had a place to stay.) Maybe my January resolution is to appreciate things.

        Liked by 2 people

        • I like your thoughts about the value of appreciating what you have, things you might take for granted. It seems to me that’s where focus can help a person feel better about all things. Glad you had a warm place to stay during such a long power outage. Eek!

          Liked by 1 person

  34. Ally, I am definitely a pantser, nuff said about that. In my little space, astrology is best left to the astrologers, a bit over my pay grade. Today is 111? I hadn’t thought of it in that way. Seems to me that Bilbo had reached the ripe old age of eleventy one. Woke up to about 2 feet of new snow this morning, forecasters said 1 – 5″. Pah! After 3 hours of shoveling snow, I’m settling in with a cup of hot chocolate and movie. Have a nice day Ally.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Johnny, I don’t blame you for leaving astrology alone. I don’t follow my horoscope, just seem to stumble over articles every once in a while. Is that how old Bilbo was? I don’t remember that detail at all.

      You got a lot of snow. We’ve had predictions but instead of snow we got sleet. You don’t have to shovel it, but it makes driving a nightmare. Enjoy your hot chocolate and your movie. Stay warm.

      Liked by 1 person

  35. Oh my… I don’t know where to start! I LOVE the “pantser” description….c’est moi! But as a Capricorn, am I supposed to be more diligent and ambitious? Oh no. I’m an astrology dufus…clueless. But if Ally Bean says it’s “go time”, I’m on board! Let’s roll!
    🥰❤️🥰

    Liked by 2 people

  36. I love the quote you started with. Just what I needed to read today! I’m not much into astrology, but I think it’s interesting and fun – and gosh, I HOPE it’s right this year! I’m already ready for a fresh start!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Michelle, yours is my take on astrology, too. Interesting, makes me think, but I don’t follow it per se. I liked that image from the second I saw it. I’ve been saving it for a post like this one, upbeat that is. Yep to a fresh start!

      Liked by 2 people

  37. I am uninspired thus far by January. I feel as if it’s always 5:00 when I look outside. Ugh.

    The whole Number Thing escapes me. For a while there, it seemed like whenever I was online reading, I kept coming across the term Angel Number. What the heck? Anyway, I’m a Word Girl, not a Numbers Girl. 😉

    Liked by 2 people

    • Nance, I feel the same way about it being 5:00 p.m. all day long. It wears on my nerves, is making me fretful.

      I’m aware of interesting number sequences when I see them but I do not know their angelic meanings. I see that term often, too. I can use numbers for number-y things, but words have meaning to me.

      Liked by 1 person

  38. Eleven is one of my lucky numbers and Thursday is my favorite day. And it’s sunny today so I feel good. If we can make it to mid February then we enter the year of the Dragon. I’m hoping this dragon year matches up to others in the past.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jan, you are having a good day, so many things you like, and that’s wonderful. Another commenter mentioned that it was going to be the year of the Dragon. If that bodes well for our country, our world, then bring it on.

      Liked by 1 person

  39. I’m a goal setter, but I seldom make New Year’s Resolutions. I know some like to declare their goals publicly, but I think that sets one up for failure. I have many friends who start the year with weight loss goals. They post pictures of themselves each day, religiously working out, but when it stops, that usually means they’ve tossed in the towel. Gentle nudges seem closer to my approach. Most of my goals are private.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Pete, I agree that most of my goals or nudges are private and I have no desire to proclaim them like some people do with resolutions. I know there is a thought that by declaring your goals you’ll be held accountable by friends and family. But I don’t see that happening, like you said all of a sudden the photos or talk about the resolution stops– and no one questions it.

      Liked by 2 people

  40. Ally,
    One should never let a DUMB acronym go to waste. (Was that too formal? Can you be formal when using DUMB in a sentence? I dunno.) Either or, I just found out I’m a pantser, so that’s cool. Let’s see: my biggest goal right now is trying to figure out how to write a synopsis for a book of personal essays. Ugh. And amazing query letters. Double ugh. And I’m only going to open myself up to astrology and/or numerology if they can give me supercool powers that put me a leg up on any of my goals. So, do I need a super number? Do I need to wait for a specific day when my stars and planets align while also having a super number? How do I find out what any of that is? WHAT’S THE SECRET?!!!!! I mean besides hard work. Okay. Sorry. Anyway, goal today is going to the grocery store and planning out the rest of the weekend into next week. We have three days coming up when it’s going to be below freezing, which means it’s going to be cold in our house. Very cold. We should do something about that. All that to say, I plan on being holed up in bed reading those three days. At least that’s the dream. But today it’s bright sunshine and 67 degrees. So, Happy second New Year! Do you plan on celebrating/not celebrating Chinese New Year as well? You know what they say — third time’s a charm. I have no idea when that is but I think it’s in February. And this January, thus far (fingers crossed), has been just right. It’s not been too much one thing or another. So, I’m happy! Happy rest of January to you. Hope your days brighten and your goals nudge! Mona

    Liked by 2 people

    • Mona, I think that using the DUMB acronym in any situation is permissible, encouraged even. I could be biased in its favor of course. I don’t envy you trying to write a book synopsis nor query letters. Those are tricky wordy things to get correct. Where do you even start?

      A couple other commenters have mentioned that Chinese New Year is coming up, in Feb I think. And that I could go for a new year’s trifecta, my term not theirs. I’m all about anything that suggests good luck so sure, I’ll celebrate it too.

      I don’t know enough about astrology or numerology to know how you go about getting your secret number that gives you supercool powers. Certainly there is a way. If there is a way to learn about it, I’m sure you’ll figure it out. Maybe something to research while you stay in bed to keep warm?

      Thanks for stopping by to comment. I’m pleased to know that your January has been just right. It’s a great month here when it snows and the sun shines, however not this year. Good luck with your goals aka nudges.

      Liked by 2 people

    • Laurie, Happy Birthday! What a great day to claim as your own. As for resolutions I figure not for me, but good for you if’n that works for you. How’s that for being uber realistic!

      Like

  43. I’m not a holiday celebrator, really, though I am a Capricorn and appreciate you making me aware of this momentous occasion. Nor do I make resolutions. But that doesn’t mean on not in a continual path of self improvement to some greater or lesser extent. Is this month uninspiring? Well, I sure have been disappointed at the crappy grooming at the ski area. Probably a labor shortage issue. So, skiing has been uninspiring! I’m lined up to give five presentations (mostly on Zoom) starting next week. And writing has been slow going. But I’m enjoying a much more relaxed pace at the moment. Not trying to frantically pull a book together.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Eilene, I hear ‘ya. I don’t do much to celebrate holidays either. I prefer to acknowledge their existence, what they’re meant to teach me, then quietly move on with my life. I also agree that improvement is a constant, and as such for me doesn’t need to be proclaimed as a resolution.

      Interesting about how your skiing area is not keeping the place up to snuff. That’s disappointing, but I bet you’re right about the labor shortage. Still…

      Best of luck with your presentations. That should keep you engaged in thinking and doing, which to me seems like as good of an antidote to this blah January as anything.

      Liked by 1 person

  44. I love the moon and am fascinated by the info that also comes out about its orbit. As to astrology- nope. As to goals – huge YEP. Might change a few SMART goals to DUMB goals! That’s so cool kid stuff there, Ally Bean!! As to January – love it. COLD, sunny, and now white. Plus I have a Bday and so I like this month. I’m always annoyed about the whole blue Monday bullshit.

    Liked by 2 people

  45. Way to leap into a Leap Year with fun, Ally! Happy New Year (Again)! Are you celebrating this second 2024 New Year’s Day today? If so, how? By reading your blog post that let me know I should’ve pondered celebrating the New Year again. I will be celebrating Christmas again next weekend as our youngest and her hubby who caught the thing and couldn’t be here for the official first celebration of Christmas. It’s a first for us to not have the decorations taken down until after January. I promised her that we’d have everything looking the same as we had it on Christmas day so that she didn’t miss out.

    Do you have any goals [or nudges] for 2024? If so, what are some of them? See above…oh, and having my tax papers ready and to our accountant before the end of January. I’m truly pumped about that as it has inspired me for one week to keep on top of the daily review and data entry as needed so I’m ahead of the game before the end of January.

    Are you finding that this is the most uninspiring January that has ever existed in all of time? If not, which one was worse? It has been a gloomy January, but I feel inspired now that I kind of tend toward the DUMB zone as well! That’s effing brilliant of you to come up with that! 📣🥳👏🏻💖

    Liked by 1 person

    • Shelley, I’d forgotten that this was going to be a Leap Year. Not that it changes how I’ll approach it, I’m still not going to have any resolutions and lean into nudges instead.

      Many people got Covid in December, I’m sorry about your SIL. I know it seemed like every day we got a text from a friend saying how someone was sick, plans were cancelled. Good of you to keep Christmas up for them.

      Impressed with your bookkeeping skills. We don’t even think about taxes until February and our accountant rarely seems to come through until April. He’s honest but a slug.

      I’m glad DUMB rings true with you. I made it up spontaneously, then looked at it and thought, “not bad, not bad at all.” I guess I’ve retained a little bit of inspiration despite the dreary weather.

      Liked by 1 person

  46. Goals for 2024

    In 2024, I’m committed to:

    Self-care: Nourishing my body, mind, and soul through healthy habits and activities that bring joy and peace.

    Photography and Podcasting: Enhancing my skills, telling captivating stories, and sharing my passion with others.

    Selling My Art: Turning my passion into a business by building an online portfolio and networking with potential clients.

    Focus and Organization: Setting clear goals, creating a strategic plan, and implementing effective time management techniques.

    Overcoming Procrastination: Taking control of my actions and unlocking my true capabilities.

    Let’s all make it a year of transformation and success!

    Like

    • Thanks for sharing your goals for 2024. I like how you are able to articulate them clearly, I remember a time when I was like that, too. Now I’m more of a muddle, but I’m nudging myself to make this a transformational year, and self-care, organization, and not procrastinating are on my list. Hear, hear, about joy and peace. The whole world needs more of that.

      Like

      • Thank you for your kind words! I’m glad you found my goals for 2024 clear and articulate. It’s completely normal to go through phases where we feel a bit muddled, but it’s great to hear that you’re determined to make this year a transformational one. Self-care, organization, and avoiding procrastination are excellent areas to focus on. I completely agree with you about the importance of joy and peace in the world. Wishing you all the best in achieving your goals for this year! Let me know if you any questions!!

        Liked by 1 person

        • It’s fun to *meet* other people in blogland and to learn about how they embrace/live their lives. Thanks for popping by to join in here. Ever onward to better days!

          Like

    • Nicole, I stumbled over the article and it called to me, it did, it did. I enjoy knowing that astrology exists more than I need to know all the specifics, and numerology is beyond my pay grade, BUT the 111 date is/was cool. As for using DUMB, it seems more for me than SMART. Read into that sentence all that you like. 😜

      Like

  48. Ally, I take all the help I can get!😀 Love the idea of nudges and I have a few of these – see how they work out! I gave up resolutions after 2020 when the world went topsy-turvy. Oh, January is always uninspiring but this year much more relaxed than last year when my husband had prostate cancer op – very unnerving and worrying time and thankfully all gone well!

    Liked by 1 person

  49. I have so many goals. But, here’s the thing. If I don’t write them down and track them, I will honestly spend all of my time reading on the couch. I am 100% unmotivated. If you don’t need that type of motivation, rock on! Don’t nudge me, I need you to shove me all the way across the room!

    Liked by 1 person

    • NGS, to thine own self be true. I know SMART goals help many people accomplish what they want/need to do. I used them at a certain point in my life too, and like you said that made me laugh, they shoved me across the room.

      Like

  50. I don’t usually make resolutions, though I have some goals like finishing manuscripts–that sort of thing.
    Today we had a snowstorm here in the Midwest, so we’re digging ourselves out!

    Liked by 1 person

    • L. Marie, your goals sound more in line with how I approach the new year. No resolutions, just moving forward on some projects. We were supposed to have snow but it is just cold rain instead. It’s tiring to look outside into gray wetness. At least snow is pretty.

      Like

  51. No, I did not make any resolutions for the second 2024 New Year’s. I did resolve (the first time) to better manage my time, but that concept has already tanked a little. I even decided to have a word of the year (time) but it didn’t seem to help one whit. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, I like your resolution, but can understand how it could be daunting to do. Of course I’m a natural born sloth so my empathetic point of view comes from that perspective. I’ve made no resolutions for the year and figure it’s best this way. I’ll nudge myself to do what I feel is best for me, small efforts at a time.

      Liked by 1 person

      • That’s the spirit Ally … the weather this weekend has dampened my enthusiasm for everything. Ice everywhere and it’s going to be -20 windchill tonight and the next few days and nights. Hard NOT to be a sloth when that comes your way!

        Liked by 1 person

        • You stay warm! I do better thinking about improving myself in March than I do in January. It may be a new year on the calendar, but it’s not a new year in any practical way according to the weather.

          Liked by 1 person

          • Thank you Ally. I awoke to -25 windchill/real feel and 0 air temps. We got more snow, which mercifully covered the treacherous ice in the driveway. I used a whole canister of Driveway Heat to try to melt the City sidewalk and porch as the sun was out, but no improvement, so I didn’t us the other canister. They say it works to -25 air temp. It seems nothing is ordinary with regard to the weather anymore – those 50s we were enjoying were great but weird.

            Liked by 1 person

            • You’ve been hit hard. I don’t know anything about Driveway Heat. It’s in the teens here with a smattering of snow over ice. I feel for ‘ya kid! I agree the weather is nutty.

              Like

              • Yes and 200,000 people lost power – some still have no power and we sent linemen to New York and now have linemen coming in to help our state out. I got an instant-on generator in 2022 for just this reason. I have no one I could stay with if we had no power, plus I’d worry about frozen pipes. I’m glad we didn’t lose power, even with the generator. I was more worried about the big dead tree two backyards away – it dropped a branch on an electrical wire, the wire fell down, burned my neighbor behind’s garage and stockade fence to the ground and the fire burned the back one-quarter of my yard. It was 25 feet from where I was sleeping. So the 45-50 mph winds this weekend were/are worrisome to me. That night of the fire was December 2nd/3rd – it was in the 40s – I had to wait outside from 11:30 p.m. (fire began) til 2:00 a.m. when I got the all clear to go inside. What if this happened in this weather? I wish he’d take down the tree. Driveway Heat is by Prestone – good product but I can’t say I’ve ever needed it in temps this brutal. I have told my mail carrier that I have no mail important enough to deliver – ever and he can go into the front garden if he feels compelled to deliver it. Our City will ticket you if you have snow/ice for longer than 24 hours on the city sidewalk. Since we had a flash freeze, no one has cleared their city sidewalk. I’d have rather had a normal Winter!

                Liked by 1 person

                • Our City will ticket you if you have snow/ice for longer than 24 hours on the city sidewalk. I’VE NEVER HEARD OF SUCH A THING! That’s just crazy, especially where you live and your frigid winters.

                  For once living somewhere without sidewalks, like we do, seems prudent. I am glad to know about the Prestone product if I/we ever need it for our driveway. Still, a normal winter is the ultimate goal.

                  Liked by 1 person

                  • Yes, our City does that and they have several ordinance enforcement officers – probably for the revenue. Yes, you luck out with no sidewalks. I took the bus for years when I worked in Downtown Detroit – the bus stop was five minutes away. In March when we had ice storms, I would walk on people’s property to risk falling … but then I had no choice when I got up to Fort Street. Businesses don’t always salt either. I’d prefer less extreme weather – we now pay this price for the mild El Nino weather. We are going to -25 wind chill again tonight with snow.

                    Liked by 1 person

  52. I love your acronyms! You’re very creative.
    I like January, but only because Ella was born this month. I think that is why it grew on me. I used to not love winter and then I had two babies born in winter. Funny how that happened.
    Funny thing happened yesterday. I just realized my daughter’s birthday is 1/11. 111, angel n. Oh cool. Why it never occurred to me before, who knows.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Kari, I like January when it is pretty outside. I’m shallow like that. In fact in years past I’ve lurved January, but this year it is a slog. It is cool that your daughter’s birthdate is an angel number. Now that you realize this you’ve got even more reasons to always like this month.

      Liked by 1 person

    • I don’t understand astrology in depth either. I like reading horoscopes, anyone’s horoscope, just because they seem like writing prompts to me. But as for the actual deets of astrology, I’m uninformed.

      Liked by 1 person

  54. Some years I do make up a serious list of New Year’s Resolutions. Looking back, some of them worked, more or less. This year I didn’t do anything. I think I know what I should be doing. Besides, I write daily goals in my datebook and try to finish most (or maybe half) of them each day. Next month we’ll have Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon. I don’t think they make resolutions. They just have a big feast or two and get together with family. That sounds good to me.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicki, when I was younger I made serious NY Resolutions, well defined, with SMART goals to go with. Like you sometimes I achieved them, other times not at all. The thing is, and you nailed it, I have daily goals that I usually, if not accomplish, at least start. And I know intuitively what I should be doing so I just need a nudge or two now. I’m looking forward to the Year of the Dragon. I like the simplicity of just celebrating a new year without any highfalutin expectations associated with it.

      Like

  55. I like DUMB, Ally. That is more my speed. I do not make resolutions because most often, they don’t stick. I’m not the person who is dedicated to goals or working out four times a week at the gym, so I’ll go with a few nudges and move forward with this new year.

    I nudged myself last year to have the surgery that will fix my vision, so that is happening now. My biking buddy and I nudged ourselves last night to pick an Airbnb for a June biking vacation. In a minute, I am going to nudge myself into finishing laundry and make food for tomorrow. Beyond this, the foul weather is nudging me to take one day at a time, ensure I get out to see friends, and take a positive approach that spring is a mere 10,000 weeks away. 😉

    Liked by 1 person

    • Mary, I rather like DUMB too. It was a spontaneous silliness on my part, but it makes sense to those of us who don’t make resolutions or feel the need to set specific goals. Nudging forward is good.

      You do nudge yourself quite well. The vacay plans sound good. I’m glad your eye surgery was a success and that your laundry will soon be finished. Rather the yin and yang of life there! I agree that spring is about 10,000 weeks away. This has been a tedious January that I don’t think is ever going to end.

      Liked by 1 person

  57. I didn’t even celebrate the first New Years, Ally. I don’t like making goals or nudging things along too much. I guess I’m still too close to work. I’ve been retired 4 years, but when I think of goals, it still brings back the feelings of filling out mine, and reviewing those of others. In 42 years, I’m not sure I ever did anything more meaningless than making annual goals.

    Like

    • Dan, you’re a person after my own heart. I used to be forced to make goals and thought it was ridiculous. Like the interview question: “where do you see yourself in 5 years?” Who knows! I love the idea that you can predict the future, but I’m a pragmatist and I know you cannot know the future. Do your best today and see where it takes you.

      Liked by 1 person

      • The goals were just a rehashing of my job description. If I had a new goal, it was because technology changed or we adopted new technology – all of which was my job. Having a goal that said, “Stay abreast of changes in the technology landscape and…blah blah blah.” Seemed like make work.

        Liked by 1 person

        • I see your point. Some goals are just built into a job or life, why make a big deal about doing what you’re going to be doing anyhow? You’re much better off retired and away from job goals!

          Liked by 1 person

  58. I did not celebrate this second New Year and I feel like something wonderful ought to be happening as I am a Capricorn with a New Moon in my sign’s arc or whatever. I do not make resolutions and I’m afraid that the time bandit has hit me again today. I set a resolution to not make resolutions probably more than thirty years ago. People tend to set big IMPORTANT goals that are very hard and give up very quickly because they are so very hard. I like your Dumb Nudges much better. I try to set reasonable goals, although not on New Year’s. I have enough to deal with at the end of the year. I like small, doable goals. In fact, I like an old friend’s method of making a checklist for goals and including “make a checklist” at the top so she can check one thing off immediately. Love that feeling.

    Like

  60. Hi Ally, I beyond love “DUMB.” Yes, you are creative. As I continue reading your post…huge goosebumps…I recently learned about 111 from a neonatal nurse when my granddaughter was born on 111 (her birthday January 11th)There were some complications – she told me this little girl will be watched over by angels because she was born on 111 – first time I have heard this…and I needed to hear this. I am like you, Ally, how I like to go by the beat of my own drum, yet paying attention and listening to my inner voice. I am glad I stopped by and visited your post tonight! Happy New Year! xo Erica

    Liked by 1 person

    • Erica/Erika, I won’t lie, I like DUMB, too. I was being silly. I don’t like SMART because that concept reminds me of an arrogant prof in college who I didn’t like. Maybe if he’d not introduced me to them I might utilize that acronym.

      Which is my roundabout way of saying that it’s amazing how a person, like your neonatal nurse, can influence you about something in a way that’ll impact you for the rest of your life. A 111 birthday is truly special and cool.

      I’m glad we both follow our own drum beats and that we met along the way. Blogging is such a unique experience wherein you never know who’ll turn out to be a kindred spirit. Happy New Year to you, too.

      Liked by 1 person

  62. Pingback: The One About Celebrating 2024 New Year’s Day A Second Time Today – "Exploring Endless Horizons: A Journey of Discovery"

  63. School districts ’round here live by SMART goals, and while I get that they are more likely to be successful than generic, nonspecific goals, I just loath education jargon. Next time I have to meet about a SMART goal, I’m going to mention your DUMB goal. I love it!

    Liked by 1 person

    • The Travel Architect, I’m with you about being put off by the jargon aspect of SMART goals. I learned about them from a prof I didn’t like so that’s who I think of when I see anything about SMART. By all means, be DUMB. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  65. I picked up Thai food for my wife and I the other night and almost wished the proprietor “Happy New Year”, but then I wondered if she celebrated Chinese New Year instead so I kept my wish to myself. Sort of reinforces the thought we have other opportunities to “begin” besides New Years Day itself. Also, I think there’s a whole vocabulary associated with pretentious (a fun blog topic?), including using “one” instead of “you”. When someone says “presumably” or “thus” for example, I’m struck with the same thought: “Well now, aren’t YOU high and mighty?” 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dave, wise to not accidentally insult the proprietor of a place with good food. A few commenters have mentioned that according to the Chinese NY it’s going to be the year of the Dragon. I might celebrate that too for the reason you said: we have other opportunities to “begin” besides New Years Day itself.

      Pretentiousness is one of things you know when it happens, but I’ve never studied the *why* of it. I just think of Sheldon when I encounter it.

      Like

  66. I think I believe in Santa Claus more than I do Astrology.
    Should one start each morning with It’s GO TIME? Probably. Maybe. But I probably won’t. 🤣
    I don’t do resolutions, but I do love your DUMB Nudge thoughts! January is usually a good month for me, but I live in Florida, so that makes a difference. I think January 2021 was the worst so far. Covid and all that.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Suz, I follow your reasoning about Santa versus Astrology. You make me smile. I don’t know that I’m going to be starting each day with “go time” either. I’m happy the DUMB nudge idea rings true with you. Good point about January 2021 being lousy, maybe the lousiest overall. 🤔

      Liked by 1 person

  67. I very much like your DUMB acronym. Much better than SMART. Thank you! I plan to adopt it since that’s pretty much how I do things (probably making me a panster rather than a plotter). As others have pointed out, January 2021 came to mind as being one of the worst. I tend to celebrate the new year at the Solstice and then get on board with January 1 and any other celebrations that come along because life is short. Let’s celebrate. As for nudges for 2024, mostly I want to rest. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Robin, I’m pleased that you like the acronym. I made it up on the fly but it does seem to suit most commenters here. I’d say we’re smart to embrace DUMB. [I do crack myself up, forgive me.]

      You’re right, I’d put January 2021 out of my mind but it was awful, everyone being cautious, rightfully so, about doing anything. Plus no vaccine yet. Difficult times.

      Like

  68. I agree that goals are so much more realistic and practical than resolutions. Mine are the same as last year: lots of home projects, mostly because we couldn’t get to quite a few of them in 2023 for various reasons. At least with home repairs and fixes there’s a greater chance of achieving a resolution. – Marty

    Liked by 1 person

    • Marty, our 2023 was THE year for exterior home repair projects. I understand about how they can consume your year and your mind and your budget. Good point about how you have something resolved when they are completed. Best of luck with yours.

      Liked by 1 person

  69. As somebody who has been browbeaten with SMART goals over the years, I think your DUMB invention is brilliant, and much better sums up the idea of nudges! I know nothing about astrology, so no, I’m not celebrating new moons or Capricorn rising or any of that mystery mumbo-jumbo, but I respect those who do. With all the freelance work I’ve had this month, January has actually been extra inspiring, so I guess I’m bucking that trend. Happy New Year x2!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Mark, I can’t embrace SMART goals, they’re too structured and contrived for my liking. However my DUMB nudges concept is flexible and pragmatic, which appeals to me more. The one thing I know for sure about astrology is that I believe people when they tell me they believe in astrology, that it works for them. I default to, good for you, not for me.

      I’m pleased your January is going well. I like knowing things are going well for people I like and that there is happiness, although I admit that now that there’s a little bit of sunshine outside I’m like this January. Fickle am I.

      Liked by 1 person

  70. Love your blog! I could spend hours here, reading through your thoughts.

    Love DUMB goals. It’s right up my alley and truly designated with me and it’s definitely going on my desk. I was never one to find SMART goals very useful, nor am I one to follow the rules. I am a rebel of sorts!

    I recently began my enlightened journey so I most certainly believe in the energy forces at play. I am also one to support empowerment on any terms so I’m here for it!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Tai Loughman, thanks for the compliment. I try to keep this blog interesting albeit in a quirky way.

      The thing about SMART goals, at least in my experiences, is that they were something foisted on me and seemed contrived. My DUMB nudges seem more organic in origin, therefore more in tune with who I am.

      I like your attitude. I’m a person wants to be supportive, not judgmental, and energy seems to be my word of the month. I reading and hearing about it everywhere I turn. Gotta say, I like it.

      Like

      • Energy is all around us. It is in everything, even that which we believe to be dormant is harnessing energy. Frequency is the determination of how much energy something harnesses, this allowing energy to flow freely. Have you ever heard a song that you just vibed with and couldn’t explain why? It’s bc it is on your frequency, your vibe. The higher the frequency, the more amplitude the energy. Manifestation and self awareness use these scientific ideas heavily. Understanding frequency and energy a bit more has drastically improved my life but I still have so much to learn.
        All that being said, if energy keeps coming up, you are meant to look into it and harness it, it is your guide forward.

        Liked by 1 person

  71. I think it’s Carolyn Hax who says we should give ourselves permission to be bad at something. This is hard for a perfectionist such as myself. This year, I’m giving myself permission to be bad at art.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda Lou, I like Carolyn Hax’s advice. I’m a former perfectionist, still occasionally revert to my younger ways, so I’ll keep this in mind. I hope your 2024 art isn’t all that bad but if it is, so be it.

      Liked by 1 person

  72. I’ve been in blissful ignorance of the second 2024 NYD until now, so no celebrating here.

    You’re going to be unsurprised to hear that I absolutely love your DUMB acronym, being not a fan of SMART goals (weird coach that I am). My primary nudge this year is to seek outlets for my writing (and for my photography). In short, to get the things I do for fun to earn their keep, so I can keep spending my time on doing them absolutely guilt free.

    January has been pretty grey & grim so far, but there’s a beautiful blue sky this morning, which goes rather well with my new right eye that’s making everything brighter and more colourful. No idea if that’s a metaphor… but I plan to lean in to it any way! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, I wouldn’t have known about the significance of 111 if I hadn’t stumbled over the article. Then once I read about it, I thought why not think of it as a second NY Day? No harm.

      Few people I know like SMART goals so as a coach who doesn’t espouse them I’d say you’re a step above the rest. Nudging yourself in the right direction for you seems more like a concept for today’s chaotic, unpredictable world. Good luck with your search for outlets for your work.

      On Sunday we finally had some sunshine here and my grouchy mood lifted. I’m happy to know your right eye is seeing better, makes getting up each day more exciting, I’d guess.

      Liked by 1 person

  73. I quite like the DUMB [doable, useful, memorable, and basic] nudges. I can definitely work with that! I did a New Moon tarot reading on Jan 11. I’ve been playing with tarot for about 6 months now as a way to reflect and allow my intuition a free voice. My new moon in Capricorn card… as you say the “go for it card”…was the Apathy Card! Seriously. The don’t do anything, wait on it, hold your horses, it’s not time yet card. So much for 1-11 goal setting! So, yup, I’m looking for the nudges.

    Like

    • Pat, I don’t know much about Tarot, but am smiling about your Apathy Card. I’d say you are on the right path by not doing anything. 111 was not the number for you when it comes to goal setting, I can see that. Perhaps Tarot will nudge in the direction you need to go when it is time for you to go that way.

      Liked by 1 person

  74. Very interesting topic I’ve never taken to astrological stuff. I used to set new year resolutions and gave up long ago. I have goals that I would love to accomplish but not resolutions. Love that above comment about LET GO. That’s something I think we all should try and incorporate into our daily lives.

    Liked by 1 person

    • MsHazyBrain, I don’t know much about astrology either, just which sign I am and who I’m supposed to be because of it. I found the article interesting, kind of a glimpse into how other people think. I am not inclined to resolve anything either, but if I accomplish a few goals I’ll be happy enough and I can let go of any negative feelings I might have about goals I don’t achieve.

      Liked by 1 person

Comments are closed.