I've had quite a few challenges in 2012 and lots of lessons learned. I completed goals that I almost gave up on, met wonderful people, and had more heartaches than I expected. While I will continue to plan and execute my goals for 2013, my main focus will be on avoiding mistakes made in 2012.

Most of my life, I've always expected so much of people. Having too many expectations caused me to become disappointed more easily. Going forward, I would like to approach things differently by maintaining higher standards and walking away when those standards are not met instead of allowing my heart to become an easy target for breakage.

Starting NOW, my approach to many life situations have to permanently change:

Clearly, most people should have no reason to dislike me, but for those who dislike me, I'm learning to accept it and realize that it's their problem, not mine.Zero tolerance of poor treatment by others. I MUST realize my worth and not allow myself to be treated like dirt just to gain attention or what I think is "love".Continue to focus on self-love.Let romantic relationships develop naturally. You can't force it and you can't make a guy feel something he doesn't. NO CHASING. Prioritize. Know what and who are the most important. My top priorities are God, family, career and graduate school. Anything or anyone else should be secondary.Live a healthier lifestyle. My physical and mental health are very important. As a diabetic, I should exercise and eat better. To maintain mental stability, I should protect my heart by avoiding situations in which I know are dangerous territories.These are all changes that are not some sort of New Year's Resolutions, but valuable "must-dos" that will help improve my life, giving me room accept true love. May 2013 will mark 10  years of me living as a single woman and I'm "ready to be ready."

Are you ready to be ready?

I'm looking forward to a new year and a new beginning.

Jacqueline. E. Perry
Facebook.com/IForgiveYouByJPerry