In my last post, I shared some hard questions that I asked myself before even attempting to do my annual review. After answering those questions, I simplified my usual review process by using Chris Guillebeau’s two basic questions: What went well this year? and What didn’t go well this year?

As it turns out, 2011 was a pretty successful year. Of course, there are always ways to improve. I could have done a better job of launching Liv Simpl, for example. But enough generalities, here are my answers to two very revealing questions. I also share ways that my lessons can help you; hopefully they’ll inspire you to do a review of your own.

What Went Well in 2011?

I lost 20 pounds

Within a year after moving to Chicago, I’d gained 15 pounds. Add that to the 5 pounds I gained while in grad school and I was now weighing in at just under 170. After months of trying to drop the weight, I went in for my annual checkup in May and that experience changed everything: I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes and pre-hypertension. Having never had any health issues before, this shocked me into getting serious. I’m happy to say that six months later, I’d lost 20 pounds–and kept it off. There’s still changes that I’d like to make physically, but I’m confident that I’ll achieve them.

How You Can Be Healthier in 2012

My health scare is what did it for me, but I don’t want you to get to that point. You can make two very simple changes to your lifestyle, that will result in amazing results.

1. Replace those unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives. Instead of chips and crackers, keep fresh fruit and veggies around.
2. Get used to being active. Do some activity for as little as 15 minutes a day. Whether it’s walking or rock climbing, just focus on getting outside and moving. You can increase the time once you commit.

I launched Liv Simpl

One night I awoke from a dream with two words in my head: Live Simple. I’d been thinking about starting a blog on simple living and this was the name that came to me. So, I pushed forward and finally launched Liv Simpl this September. I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way, and I’m still figuring things out, but Liv Simpl is a reality–and I’m proud of that.

How You Can Launch Your Project in 2012

Set a date and stick to it. That’s the thing that got me moving. Some people would argue that you should tell people about your project, so they’ll keep you accountable. That’s a good idea and it works for some. The important thing is to be accountable to yourself first, though. Personally, I tend not to talk about my projects until they’re close to completion, but broadcasting your intentions can be powerfully motivating. And if you’re worried about perfection, remember: It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs to be done. Perfection can come later.

I Started Volunteering

One of the things I always wanted to do was be more active in my community through volunteering. I’d volunteered in Atlanta, but it wasn’t consistent by any means. Fortunately, at the urgings of my partner, I finally started volunteering earlier this month. It feels good to give back and I look forward to continuing to do so indefinitely.

How You Can Give Back in 2012

There are a lot of ways to give back: volunteer, donate, listen. Find an organization in your area and see if you can aid their mission. Maybe you have specific skills, like graphic design, web design or legal expertise–many non-profits sorely need people with these skills. If you want to donate, you can start today by checking out 12 Days of Giving.

What Didn’t Go Well in 2011?

I Didn’t Do the Best Job Launching Liv Simpl

Although I launched Liv Simpl, I know there are things I could have done better leading up to it. I could have networked more. I could have written guest posts. I could have created a newsletter. But I didn’t do any of these things. Has it hurt me? Probably. It’s definitely made the growth of the blog more gradual. But then again, that gradual growth has allowed me time to really hone in on what Liv Simpl is about and the direction it should go. If I’d done all those things, I may have felt the need to take other, less genuine directions. Having a small–yet growing!–number of readers has allowed me the freedom to make changes that would otherwise be difficult. It’s also made me feel like I have the “right” readers. And I’m thankful for that.

I Quit Marathon Training

This one still haunts me. In January, I signed up for a marathon training program. I even pre-paid for the NYC marathon. This was part of my motivation to get back into shape this year. Since I’d always run, I thought it’d be a good idea to take on a huge goal of completing a marathon. Also, I was inspired by reading Haruki Murakami’s story. Now, I’m mostly humbled.

Anyways, it didn’t exactly turn out the way I wanted. I went to two group runs, then quit. Maybe it was the fact that I had to bike–in ice and snow–to the training spot. Maybe it’s the fact that I was badly out of shape. Or, maybe it was my typical inability to do group activities. Whatever the case, I quit. Now that I’m 20 pounds lighter, it’s back on the list for 2012, though.

I Didn’t Take Care of My Body

I haven’t taken the best care of my body this year. Ignoring running injuries, back pain from sitting for hours, not going in for tests my doctor ordered–I’ve been a bad, bad girl. The only thing I can say is I’ll do better next year. I’m already planning to get a more supportive work chair and have some body work done.

Doing Your Annual Review

Have you had time to or do you plan to do your annual review? If not, there are three steps you can use to get started.

1. Ask yourself some hard questions about what matters most and what you want to pursue.
2. Ask yourself what went well and what didn’t this year.
3. Set a theme for next year.

What are some highlights of your annual review? What changes would you like to make for next year? Do you think doing an annual review is helpful?

Photo credit: Looking Back | Catharine | CC BY 2.0

annual review