2020 Resolutions: Finding Joy

It’s hard to believe that we only have a few days left in 2019! I always take some time during the last few days of the year to take inventory of the previous year and to come up with some goals for the year ahead; this allows for me to clear out the old to make room for the new! Since I know I’m not alone in creating a New Year's resolution, I wanted to share my thoughts for 2020.

Now, I don’t know about you, but there are times when I can feel as though there is just a bit too much on my plate, between concerts, meetings, taking care of our newborn daughter, taking care of our dogs and home, etc. When all of these things start piling up, I can feel that life becomes a race against the clock! Do I have enough time to walk the dog, and study that score? Do I have enough time to mark my bowings/articulations into the orchestra parts, and put dinner on the table? Do I have enough time to prepare for this presentation, and be a good dad? This race against the clock leads to stress, and stress leads to me not being fully present with all of the beautiful people and music with which I have the privilege to surround myself.

For this year, I am choosing to be more intentional in creating and living in joy. Laughter, music, good food, good company, date nights with my wife, watching our daughter grow, and playing with our dogs are all examples of activities that give me tremendous joy! This year, I commit to feeling all of the joy that is in my life because when I am joyful — as opposed to racing against the clock — I can bring more joy to others. And isn’t this what we all desire for our lives?

I wish you all a safe and joyous New Year, and I hope that all of our paths will cross very soon!