As I look back on 2011, I realize that the biggest thing that happened for me was a change in mindset / priorities.
I started 2011 grimly holding onto my old ideas of trying to build a shell of a life that could possibly someday include a family. By the end of 2011, I had given up on those old notions and actually started thinking about retirement.
Retirement? Yes, I know. I am not even close to retirement age, but if I don't have to fund all the normal "family" things, then I shouldn't need to stay gainfully employed as long.... maybe another five years, maybe another ten years, whatever. Then perhaps I'll work part-time someplace just to give my life some structure, as I don't think I'd do well without someplace to go and something to do everyday.
A growing part of me no longer wants to get into another relationship, even a casual one, since it could adversely impact my retirement plans. Strange? Yes, I think so.
I've also been thinking about getting rid of all the junk that I've collected over the years. All that stuff acts as an anchor, forcing me to stay where I am, and it keeps me from pursuing other life-goals, like working odd jobs in exotic locales.
There is still a part of me that wants to work a summer on a ranch out west before I am too old, or to be a bartender on a cruise ship (not the Costa Concordia, please), or be a winter custodian at some summer resort (à la Stephen King's The Shining), or drive a big rig on a part-time basis. Yup, I'm pretty unrealistic as far as future planning goes.
If only I were less sentimental about my stuff, but I've grown attached to it. It will take a bit more time to lose my sentimentality... so maybe in a few years I'll be able to get rid of all my junk, and then I'll be able to pursue my unrealistic next career / semi-retirement.
I guess that will be another mindset / priority change for another year. We'll see what 2012 brings.
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