At the start of the year I created 5 main goals to track in addition to trying to cash flow $40K in expenses. My three main goal categories were Financial, Educational and Physical. Below is a summary of my overall progress and thoughts for 2022.
FINANCIAL GOALS:
1. PAY OFF MY CAR LOAN
I bought a brand new Honda Civic in 2018 with a loan balance of $23,123.23 at an interest rate of 1.9%.
As of the publication of this article, I am done paying off my car! I plan to keep up with the maintenance and drive this car for the next 5-10 years. The next car I want to get is a Subaru and I plan to pay for that in cash.
Goal Completed.
EDUCATIONAL GOALS
2. SQL CERTIFICATION
I have been working to improve my SQL skills in some manner since 2018. I first had the idea to get SQL certified in 2019 but never got around to it. In my current role, I do not directly use SQL anymore. I don’t want to “lose” my skills, however, I am not motivated at all to get this certification.
Admittedly, SQL is a widely utilized skills across industries. So, it would be wise for me to keep my skills sharp. However, with all my other competing priorities, this one seems less and less urgent.
This goal will not continue on for 2023.
3. COMPLETE MY DUOLINGO COURSE
To complete the Spanish course, I need to finish 211 units and I am currently on unit 50. I already paid for (yet) another year of Duolingo so this goal will continue on for 2023 until it is time for my renewal.
Goal Not Completed.
PHYSICAL GOALS
4. GET TO MY GOAL WEIGHT RANGE
I have gained and lost the same 10-15lbs since at least 2018. The year 2022 came and went and while I learned some key things, I am still on my body journey.
My goal for next year would be to do check ins and set mini goals for the week.
5. COMPLETE BRIGHT ANGEL TRAIL
Originally, I had planned to hike the Bright Angel Trail in October 2021, but I ended up skipping it.
My next plan is to technically complete this hike in Fall of 2023. This is something I am totally capable of doing. In 2020, I did over 65 hikes of varying intensity (1-8 miles). So I know I can do it. I just need to carve in time to get it completed.
Now that I live less than a 10 minute drive from a moderately challenging trail, my goal is to go hiking at least weekly.
Consistency over perfection.
THOUGHTS ON 2022 GOALS
So far, so good. This year really flew by! I was able to hit major milestones like getting a new job before my 30th birthday. I also was able to finish paying off my car loans. Furthermore, I learned some practical mindset concepts that has changed my relationship with food.
If I can summarize the lessons I have learned so far, it will be: You have to do the work.
Over and over again, I am learning that I have to be intentional in my choices.