David Shingler's Stream of Consciousness

I’m not a dates person. If something needs to change, change it now because it doesn’t need to “wait until Monday!” However, I’m all for making plans to better oneself. If them plans happen to be new year resolutions, then so be it.

For me though, they’ve always been false promises to myself. I can’t force myself to do something that I don’t want to do nor are simply not ready to do just because it’s January. But, even though dates aren’t really significant to me, I can see the benefit of reflecting on the previous twelve months. I guess I should explain what I mean by I’m not a dates person though…..

Now, this may get a little depressing, but it’s the only example I can think of right now so just go with me on it. My old boy (or Dad for people who don’t use that phrase) passed away in 2016. Whenever a significant date popped up, like his Birthday or Fathers Day, I’d be inundated with “how are you today” messages. Now don’t get me wrong, I appreciated every single one of them but the fact it was his Birthday didn’t make any difference to me. Everyday was shit! His Birthday was no different than yesterday or tomorrow. A grim example I know but it captures the gist of what I mean.

With that in mind there will be no new years resolutions for me so on with the reflection. 2023 was pretty good. Sure, it had its low points, but all in all I can’t complain. It started really well with not only a new job but a completely new career doing something that I actually enjoyed. It took me 22 years to finally get out of my old industry and I haven’t looked back. My advice to anyone who thinks they are stuck in a rut is take that chance and jump out of it. You never know what’s going to happen until you try.

The podcast grew from strength to strength gaining more listeners than ever and I actually released new music for the first time since 2014. I’m still writing and jamming and have made plans for future releases so watch this space.

The studying started to get real tedious but I think that’s a combination of a couple of things. Firstly, I’m studying part time and even though the time has flown, it’s still a long time! I’m near the end now but I cannot wait for it to be over! Secondly, I decided to get back into education as a way to change careers. Now that I’ve actually changed careers, the need for the qualification has somewhat gone onto the back burner. I just have to keep telling myself, “only six months to go”.

I gained a teenager and an adult and the Mrs and I hit the 20 year mark. That’s pretty much on her having the patience of a saint because I’m an absolute nightmare! For better or for worse until death do us part….. and she meant it!

So, 2024. I just want it to be more of the same really. No huge plans, just chilled and happy. And if you are a dates person and you’ve made some resolutions, I hope 2024 brings you everything that you wish for.

Happy New Year everyone.

Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash