August is here and that means my birthday is right around the corner. That also means it is time to set some goals for the month ahead. That is what this post is about; it's that simple. So let's jump right in.

1. Up my fitness game. In the last year, I have lost 40 pounds. I'm proud of how far I've come, but I know I would be so much farther along in my journey had I just stuck to it. But while I can't change the past, I can set the tone for the future. That means it's back to setting a daily step goal, drinking a gallon of water each day, working out regularly, and prepping healthy meals to help get me through the weeks. My NYC trip is at the end of this month and I would love to see some changes before then!

2. Be more vocal. This is something I didn't have a problem with until about 5 years ago. Something happened in my life –– a small thing with big consequences –– that kind of made me retreat into the shadows of my own life. I often keep my thoughts to myself, even when that means getting condescended to and belittled by friends and acquaintances. This month, I want to speak up when I feel like someone is being unkind to me or when I feel like I have a thought that should be heard.

3. Spend more time with friends. I am a hermit –– seriously, the shirt I'm wearing right now says hermit across the front. But, a few days ago, I went to my high school reunion (it's been 10 years! what?) and had a really good time reconnecting with old friends, including two of my best friends ever in the history of friends. I want to dedicate more time to getting out of the house and spending time with the people in my life.

I will be 28 in less than two weeks, so it's time to start working towards things that fulfill my life and make me happy.