This week, I will be writing on the topic of New Year’s Resolutions, looking at my resolution subsets each day for my usual daily topics. Today, I discuss resolutions related to Learning and Professional Development. 

Today, I took my first baby steps towards learning to hand-knit a sock.  As of tonight, I have approximate one half an inch of a ribbed cuff - if I quit now it would look like a really cool anklet!  Why spend time knitting a sock when they are so readily and cheaply available?  The motivation lies in the learning process.  I have a terrific friend, Cindy, who is an expert knitter.  For the past two years, Cindy has patiently taught me to knit.  I’ve mastered the art of knitting rectangular items (scarves, potholders, baby blankets), but have never ventured outside the box (literally!).  Cindy challenged me to exert myself with her Christmas gift to me this year - double pointed knitting needles and lovely, irresistible sock yarn.  More importantly, she ensured me that she had confidence in my ability to learn this seemingly impossible skill and she volunteered to share her expertise with me, holding my hand through the process.

Would I survive without ever learning to hand knit a sock?  Likely.  Will I be a better person for having taken on this challenge - definitely.  There is great power in challenging yourself to try to master something you think is beyond your reach.  This past year, I learned to create a podcast and have found great joy in exploring the new media.  In 2006, I had tried to learn this and quit multiple times, giving up in desperation.   Learning new things takes time, perseverance, and a willingness to turn to others for expertise and mentoring.  I am blessed with a mind that wants to learn, and a spirit that is not afraid to ask for help.

For the year 2008, my personal resolutions with respect to learning and professional development  include the following:

1. Attend at least two professional development conferences related to my current areas of interest.
2. Spend at least three hours per week seriously writing, with an end goal of making progress on two book ideas that currently exist in my head, but not on paper.
3. Model active learning, and a love for learning, for my children - always be on the lookout for ways to improve myself spiritually, emotionally, professionally and physically.  Continue to seize opportunities to master new skills and concepts, both small and large.
4. Knit at least one sock, and aim for its mate to be completed in 2009.