Happy New Year, 2018

Hello, my name is Philip Stratton.  Welcome to my blog.

Like so many others, I have made several new year resolutions.  You see, 2018 is likely to be a year like none other I have experienced.  I recently resigned from my job and started an extended break from full-time employment in order to focus on family matters.  As a retired military officer, we are in the fortunate position to make such decision and financial sacrifice.  More on this at a future time.

This time away from the traditional workplace will not only allow me to spend quality time with my son during his high school years, but will provide me the opportunity to do some freelance work, pursue a few personal interests, and learn new skills.

My resolutions can be categorized into the four “Sharpen the Saw” areas Stephen Covey mentions in his extraordinary book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Physical, Social/Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual.

Physical

1. Exercise 4 days per week at a minimum

2. Reduce weight to below 170 lbs. (currently 188 as of this morning)

Social/Emotional

1. Help others achieve financial goals by facilitating at least 1 Financial Peace University workshop in 2018

2. Assist the Highland Band Parents Association by volunteering for a board position

Mental

1. Learn to code a simple iOS app

2. Learn how to properly use my DSLR camera and take better photographs

Spiritual

1. Complete a bible-in-one-year program

2. Take an active role in promoting the mission of my church

Each of these resolutions, or goals, meet the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.  The key to achieving success in reaching your goals is motivation, and public accountability is a proven motivator.  Therefore I will be providing progress updates on this blog, as well as other social media outlets, throughout my journey.  In addition to these updates, I will also share information and insight about leadership, personal finance, health and fitness, parenting, and other miscellaneous timely topics.

I invite you to connect with me on Twitter and any other social media platform.  I am excited about what 2018 has in store!