Resolution failure

I didn't make any New Year's resolutions this year.  With a baby on the way, it seemed a forgone conclusion that enough change was going to occur of its own accord.  It hardly seems fair then, that I've experienced the failure of a resolution I'd only half-realised I'd made.

I've developed a pregnancy complication, obstetric cholestasis, a problem with my liver which has left me extremely itchy and puts the baby at risk.  However, I'm being well looked after by clever medical types and the itching is just about under control and the risk is being eliminated by an earlier than scheduled appearance of the baby.

The resolution I hadn't been aware of making was to remain drug-free throughout pregnancy.  How stoic I thought I was being when I refused (the perfectly safe) paracetamol when I had  slight headache a few months ago!  I wouldn't have been so smug if I could have seen into the future and watched as I gleefully left the hospital carrying a carrier bag-full of tablets and potions that promised to help control the itching and give me some sleep.

Perhaps the learning here is that resolutions that haven't been fully considered are destined to be half-hearted? Or maybe that resolutions tend to be sweepingly idealistic and don't take into account the fact that life is lived moment-to-moment?  Either way, I don't feel particularly bad about it. It's one annual ritual done and dusted at least.

Comments

[lauren]

"earlier than scheduled appearance of the baby"...??!!

waiting with bated breath for more info. much love

[Charles Frith]

Caught this on my mobile phone on the way to a meeting and wanted to drop by and let you know that I'm thinking of you and look forward to seeing the first pics of the already naughty baby. Be well Helen :)

[Helen]

Thanks Lauren & Charles.
Will let you know!

[Jay, writer MemberSpeed.com]

Some situations just can't be helped. You didn't know you were going to have complexities. But I also agree with the idea that maybe some resolutions that aren't considered fully won't really find themselves implemented. There's a better chance for success if you plan your list carefully and think about how each item can affect your everyday life.