Happy New Year, dear readers! It’s been a while. In case it hasn’t been completely obvious, I have not felt much like writing lately. Instead I used unexpected free time that I was dealt in January as a time to build my fitness (through running) and let go of tension (with lots of yoga classes).

In addition, I stumbled upon an intention for 2019. Cultivating an intention is a practice I’ve had in place since 2011, as it allows me to focus on developing particular aspects of myself, or to give my year some kind of shape. I’m sure I’m not the only one in my circle to do this so if you have a similar practice, I would love to know about it.

For me, this year began with a big shot of uncertainty due to the partial government shutdown – in my case, a furlough for more than a month. Momentum in my regular routine stalled, particularly after the holidays had passed, and I experienced a loss of control as I dedicated far too much time to reading headlines of the day.

I won’t go into detail about this time, but as a person who enjoys work, takes pride in the work they do as a civil servant, AND believes that this work has value, it was not a fun month.

The unexpected break also gave me time to reflect on the fortunate circumstances in which I found myself, and I encouraged myself to try to see the positive in these moments of somewhat-free time. I say somewhat free because we really did not know when the situation would resolve.

As I spent hours running, going to yoga, and growing physically stronger, I realized that this year is one where I’m going to seek possibility. When things look like they are not going my way, what can I learn? How can I find opportunity in my daily life? If something appears to be working against me, what can I pull out of it as a positive?

Approaching each day through this lens has already had a powerful effect. I find myself more open to the day and what it might bring. My running miles are way up, and I’m thoroughly enjoying each run. My yoga practice is developing and deepening, though still consistently humbling. As for riding? Well, I took a big break and I loved every minute of that break. I put my feet back on the pedals this month and I’ll let you know how it goes.

I hope to carry this intention to seek possibility throughout the year. It feels right for 2019. Again, if you are also setting intentions for your life in some way, I would love to hear about them. One of my goals for this year is to be better about writing back so please leave a comment and put me to the test!