10 Lessons Learned in 2010 Before Jumping into 2011

There were lots of lessons learned in 2010, and rather than beating myself up for what didn’t get accomplished, I’m going to salute the high points, feel good about what I did, what I learned, who I met, and use it as a jumping off point for 2011. Don’t you think that’s better than the usual New Year’s resolutions? In no particular order…

• Lesson 1: worked with Mark on making two great videos for Accidental Locavore. If you haven’t seen them, here’s the link. Goal: when the weather gets warmer, hope he’s done with his screenplay and we can develop some more episodes.
• Lesson 2: I’ve shot some simple videos with my flip camera, and learned to edit them. Sometimes it can get a little nit-picky, but it’s always fun to see how much I can do with simple tools. Goal: to see if I can add some more camera angles to them, so my friend who makes Lester & Charlie won’t call them the headless videos anymore.
• Lesson 3: built the site for Accidental Locavore with the help of genius Gary. Goal: Start adding some ads from people like my friends 2 Chicks with Chocolate, and NYCH20 who are building local businesses using sustainable products, and make the site revenue positive. Goal 2: Start spreading the word, and you can help!
• Lesson 4: created a vision statement. Maybe better than a business plan, it keeps my eye on the prize. Goal: make it all happen!
• Lesson 5: started cooking “out of the box“, in other words, making things we all think come in packages. Now I routinely make yogurt, granola, mayo, and my first batch of bacon. Goal: start making cheese and sausages, beef jerky, and my own sriracha hot sauce.
• Lesson 6: conquered my fear of canning. Goal: to move beyond simple pickles. Kimchi anyone?
• Lesson 7: I’ve always been a great idea person, and have become a really good networker. Goal: develop pitch for Accidental Locavore, and the new competition cooking show, and network my way to a top production company to make it happen.
• Lesson 8: gotten so much from my amazing accountability group. An amazing bunch of women who have been immensely helpful! Goal: make this the best year ever!
• Lesson 9: Do what you’re passionate about. Life is too short to be miserable. Goal: follow my passions and wherever I end up, I’ll be happy!
• Lesson 10: Talk to those who love you, and listen carefully to what they have to say. My husband put a lot into perspective for me earlier this year, and I’m really grateful. Goal: Always remember who loves you.

What about you? What are your lessons learned for 2010? And where will they take you?