AN APRIL 1 AUDIT OF MY NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS
Accountability and Transparency With My Friend In The Mirror
I often write about accountability, community values and personal responsibility. With their success or failure measured by practical reality. Walking the Talk. I’ve got to demonstrate my commitment if I expect others to honor theirs.
Many of us use New Year’s Resolutions as a benchmark for success…at home, at work and in community. By April 1, we should have a pretty good idea of our success relative to our well-meaning aspirations. In my attempt to provide role model leadership, I’m sharing my own record of success to inspire others through the transparency of my personal journey. Perhaps you’ll be moved by my experience. I wish you well as you strive to be your best selves.
Here are several examples of opportunities to pursue excellence. I highlight successes and teachable moments in this audit of my progress. I encourage you to tailor to your own circumstances…
Take Better Care Of My Property
Thank goodness for CarShield. I’d neglected my car, then the CarShield pros swept in, carefully analyzed the potential, bought new plastic cord to secure the door, and have a side-door mirror on order. In its newly refurbished condition, we can even use it for a short-term rental during SXSW. Thank goodness for CarShield!
Pay Closer Attention To National and State Politics
Here, I went out of my way to listen to this Ted Cruz political speech. I discovered that he and many others are speaking from the same partisan script.
Expand Relationships With Extended Family
In which I’ve been reaching out to provide leadership with friendly overtures to our extended family. My smiling face and outstretched hand always prompt a warm reception. Such as this from my favorite Aunt in San Angelo. Don’t be hesitant to duplicate my efforts within your own families.
Upgrade Your Business and Financial Management Systems
Our major Covid disruption has forced us to reevaluate most of our business and money management policies and systems. For instance, our small business interests have had to adjust to more flexible and streamlined methods of boosting cashflow. Here is one inexpensive prompt that might help. We’re finding through our political discourse that there are plenty of folks with a certain intellectual capacity that complements this challenge.
Encourage Our Young Creatives
Our future is in the hands, hearts and minds of our younger generations. These youngsters see China, Russia, Ukraine, Florida and Texas and realize that they must sound their creative alarms by any means possible. Their expressions may be uncomfortable, but we need to support their freedom to challenge. Here, my niece is shown trying to make a difference…with her gentle manner and sensitive lyrics.
Don’t Let The Neo-Cons Scare You Away From the Old Masters
The right (wrong) are scared for their children and seniors to see provocative books or Old Master nude sculptures. Be proactive by promoting healthy interaction through prompted art treks that will help educate and elevate…not just titillate. In this example, I tapped my family reunion to encourage this senior statuary encounter. Their expressions reveal.
Keep Art and Music as Key Components of a Healthy Lifestyle
I have a huge advantage over most of you. I married an outstanding curator, and know lots of stuff about art. For instance, I purchased this extremely rare original Mona Lisa from a guy operating out of a slightly hail-damaged RV behind Capitol Plaza. I’m glad to consult with any of you as you expand your personal collections.
Never Give Up The Quest For The Great White Buffalo
Several generations of Bullocks have quested after the Great White Buffalo. This magnificent animal reflects the legacy and spirit of this great land. Few outdoorsmen/women have encountered this unique symbol of the Southwest. Naturally, I am one. I captured this rare image on that treasured occasion, and am glad to share my finely-honed strategies when you’re ready to elevate your personal search.
IN CLOSING, BE A GREAT ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARD, SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY AND ALWAYS MAINTAIN YOUR DIGNITY.
This is a rare photo of me teaching Sir David Attenborough how to be an elk whisperer.