Life is Continuous (4)

Another GOTE (goals obstacles tactics expectations) for the next year, because I really appreciate both looking forward and backward as the year flips.

For the next calendar year:

GOALS

1) Take at least 1 SQL certification test.  I live and breathe in SQL every day but haven’t taken the time to dig into a certification.

2) Finish paying off student loans.

3) Join the 800(lb) club for squat/deadlift/bench.

4) Become a better listener and be more considerate of my wife.

OBSTACLES

1) Time seems to be very limited outside of work for extra computer time.

2) Stuff always comes up and eats into the money I should put towards the loans.

3) Potential injury when training and stalling on lift progression.

4) Letting less-important things get in the way.

TACTICS

1) Have the certification be sponsored by work to add accountability.

2) Set aside minimal (near-zero) money for extra fun until the loans are done.

3) Posting form videos for feedback and sticking to programs for at least 3 months at a time.

4) Setting aside time every day to focus on her and being willing to do that on her schedule.

EXPECTATIONS

1) Take the test in August.

2) Pay off the loans by the end of June.

3) 300lb squat during the summer.

4) Feel more in tune with her perspective so when she explains something to me I’m not as clueless.

Looking back 2 years to 2012:

EXPECTATIONS

1. Credit card debt eliminated by trip to NYC, above minimum payments on student loans post-trip.

My credit score is excellent and I have been making significant payments towards my student loans. Success!

2. Multiple home run season, OBP around 0.750.

I hit more home runs the next year, but this last year was a bit off.  I was out of shape and out of gas.  At the end of the season I tore soft tissue in my hand and had to sit out a few wees.

3. At least 6-8 meetings during the year with 5-10 members.

Not even close, didn’t even form the group.  The area FTM gathering, (aka “boys night”) is restarting this January and I’m excited to attend.

4. Raise based on positive performance reviews in 2012/2013.

I completely changed jobs from teaching to IT, became a developer, and now run an IT department for a strong small business.