Lily Mulholland, Writer

It’s been one hell of a year. An out of control busy job, a spot of Army Reserve work, marginal work on my masters research project, half a dozen stories written and published, and two children nurtured for another year. Having so much responsibility has pushed me to the edge this year. It’s been a long haul. And there’s my long-suffering husband, who pretty much comes last these days! He gets the worn out, flopped out on the couch in front of the teeves version of me – not so satisfying for him, but he loves me regardless. That’s the essence of a long-term relationship, is it not?

I’m hoping 2012 will be a little more in control. I’m doing some work with a personal coach to learn how to distance my emotions from all the shit that goes down at work – to be more rational, less reactive. It’s working at work, but I’m not so good at applying these learnings in my personal life! That’s my resolution for 2012 – less negative reactivtiy and more understanding and positivity. Here’s my mantra for 2012:

I am not responsible for other people’s behaviour

I am solely responsible for my own happiness

I think that about covers it. If I can be less reactive, I should be less exhausted. I also have to learn that I am not responsible for the success of my organisation – there are 35 of us and the responsibility is shared. I have to find a way not to take it so personally (but that might have to wait until 2013!).

My other resolution for 2012 is to spend a little time each week writing. I have an idea for a novel that I’d like to start pursuing. It will be in the crime/noir style and will be set in Canberra/Queanbeyan/regional NSW, featuring a female protagonist. It’s going to be a long, slow burn, but one that should sustain me over the year ahead.

I just have to find a way to fit it all in.

What’s your goal for 2012? Whatever it is, I hope 2012 brings you health and enough happiness to make this crazy life worthwhile.