New Year's Resolutions 2017 - 新年の抱負
明けましておめでとうございます！
Happy New Year!
新年の抱負はありますか。
Have you made any New Year's Resolutions?
My good friend Karli of designosaur (the brilliant people who make all those dinosaur necklaces I wear to class) writes a new year's post every year, and I always find it super inspiring. I don't always make resolutions, but this year I have loads and I'd like to share some of them with you!
1. blog more
This one should be easy. I like writing this blog, but it's always bottom of my to-do list! Karli's suggestion was to make a regular schedule and stick to it, so I'll try that.
2. finish some books
I often tell people that I read a lot of Japanese books, but actually what I do is start reading a lot of Japanese books. Then find a new one, get distracted and start the new one. That's good for variety, but not very satisfying. I'm going to try and read one book at a time (currently reading マチルダは小さな大天才) and not start any new books until I finish!
3. watch more drama...with my students
I love J-drama and it's a great way to listen to everyday spoken Japanese - especially if the programme is centred around a family or group of friends. This year I'm hoping to use some drama clips in class. I haven't quite worked out the details yet but I think it'll be a lot of fun.
I'm currently watching Beautiful Rain （ビューティフルレイン） which is adorable and very tear-jerky. Have you seen it?
4. have more parties
We had a great time at the first annual Step Up Japanese Christmas Party, and one of my goals for 2017 is to have more school events like this. I've got a little list in mind, but if you have a suggestion please let me know!
5. be reflective
Some days I skip home from class because everything went swimmingly. Other times I'm left thinking how I could have explained something better / given you more chances to speak Japanese / had a good answer to your question on the spot instead of telling you I'll look it up.
My point is, it's good to be reflective - and not just because you won't get knocked off your bike. I really, really want to keep improving and bring you bigger and better things in 2017!
Have you made any New Year's resolutions? I'd love to know what yours are! 今年もよろしくお願いします〜
