Resolutions Reloaded: My Master Plan for a Monuental 2025

As the curtain falls on 2024, the anticipation of a new beginning fills the air. New Year’s resolutions are more than just annual traditions; they are commitments to personal evolution and milestones that mark our journey through life. While it’s easy to declare intentions to be a better person, true transformation requires setting specific, actionable, and measurable goals.
At the time I originally wrote this, my father, Sydney Weinstein, was alive. Since then, he passed away on January 1. While I am grieving, I am content in the idea that he and I were very close, and I have absolutely no regrets. His memory fuels my drive to make 2025 a year of meaningful achievements.

As a habitual goal-setter, I’ve reflected deeply on what I hope to achieve in 2025. My resolutions span both personal and professional realms, crafted not just as aspirations but as firm commitments. Here’s my detailed plan for the year ahead, a blend of ambition and pragmatism aimed at sculpting a fulfilling future.
So here they are...IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

1. The Marathon Goal: 26.2 (or 13.1) Miles of Determination
One of the most physically demanding and mentally challenging activities one can undertake is running a marathon. It tests your endurance, willpower, and physical limits. In 2025, I am committed to not just participating in but conquering the Detroit Free Press Marathon again.

Background and Motivation
Several years ago, I ran my first marathon. Despite finishing, it wasn’t without its hardships—from overtraining injuries to battling mononucleosis during race week. My time was disappointing, but the experience was incredibly formative. Now, with better health and a more strategic training plan, I’m ready to tackle this beast again, hopefully alongside my son Matthew.

Training Strategy
This time, my approach to training will be methodical and balanced. I plan to maintain regular, moderate runs until June before ramping up the intensity. This phased training approach will help avoid burnout and injuries. The idea is to be marathon-ready by October without compromising my health, with flexibility to downgrade to a half marathon if needed. I promised my doctors three years ago that I was done with these "shenanigans"...so don't tell them.

2. From Dream to Reality: Publishing My Novel
Writing and publishing a novel is a dream nurtured over a decade. My first foray into writing resulted in a sales manual that, despite modest sales, was immensely satisfying to create. Now, it’s time to transition from non-fiction to fiction.

The Writing Journey So Far
Over the years, I’ve developed the framework of my novel—character arcs, plot outline, and several chapters. Periodic bursts of inspiration have expanded and enriched the storyline. However, the novel remains incomplete, often sidelined by life’s busier moments. The story is a great one, and the main character has been modeled after both of my sons. I have an illustrator in place.

2025: The Year of the Pen
This year, the goal is not just to finish the novel but to publish it. I will dedicate specific hours each week to writing, treating it with the same priority as any major project in my professional life. The aim is to transition from sporadic writing to a structured schedule, ensuring steady progress toward completion.

3. Crafting Lasting Memories: Father-Son Experiences
As a father, creating lasting memories with my children is priceless. In 2025, I aim to design distinct, memorable experiences with each of my sons—events that will strengthen our bond and create stories to be retold for generations.

Planned Adventures
Potential adventures include a road trip to historical U.S. landmarks, participating in a physical challenge like the Motor City Triathlon on Belle Isle, or exploring new countries. These experiences will not only enrich our relationship but also instill values of adventure and curiosity in my sons. 2024 allowed me to take two road trips, one with each son. The first road trip was with Phillip, moving him to San Antonio (with stops at Graceland and Central High School in Little Rock). The second road trip was with Matthew and Finn, coming down to Florida. Both included some great father-son moments.

I also plan to help my son Matthew with his startup, by providing expertise where I can, advice where I can, and the ability to stand down and let him fail a little when need be.

4. A Partner in Time: Enhancing My Role as a Husband
Improving as a husband is an ongoing journey, one that requires constant attention and adaptation. For 2025, I’ve set specific targets to enhance my presence and engagement at home.

Practical Steps for Improvement
One tangible goal is to reduce my screen time by 20%. By tracking and managing my phone use, I aim to be more present during family time. Additionally, I plan to foster communication by replacing texts with direct conversations, deepening our connection through more meaningful interactions.

While not quantitative, I plan to listen more and watch my temper. Those are definitely things I need to work on.

5. Professional Aspirations: Hitting President’s Club (Achievers Club)
After a year of settling into a new role at RealPage, 2025 is poised to be a breakthrough year professionally. My target is not just to meet but to exceed my sales targets, aiming for at least 133% of the planned figures.

Strategy for Success
Achieving this goal will require an extraordinary effort in client engagement, innovative sales strategies, and relentless pursuit of excellence. I plan to leverage every available resource, from mentoring sessions with industry leaders to harnessing cutting-edge sales tools, to ensure top-tier performance.

6. The Call of the Wild: Venturing to Iceland
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, has been on my travel bucket list for years. In 2025, I plan to make this dream a reality. This trip will not just be a vacation but an expedition into the heart of one of the most geologically fascinating places on Earth.

Must-Visit Attractions
My itinerary includes the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal wonders of the Geysir, the historical richness of Thingvellir National Park, and the tranquil beauty of the Blue Lagoon.
Embracing the JourneySetting resolutions is akin to charting a course for a ship on the vast ocean. There will be storms and calm seas, but the direction is clear. By declaring these goals publicly, I’m not just setting expectations but also inviting accountability. You, my friends and family, are my co-navigators in this journey. Your support has been the wind in my sails, as it was when I quit smoking 23 years ago.

Conclusion: “Go Get That Cake”
As we step into the new year, I encourage everyone to find their version of “going to get that cake.” Whether it’s a personal goal like running a marathon or a collective aspiration like improving family dynamics, let’s approach it with determination and a sense of humor. Remember, it’s about the journey as much as the destination. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember, filled with achievements, laughter, and, most importantly, lots of “cake.”
Here’s to a transformative 2025 – let’s make it phenomenal, one resolved step at a time!

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