Usually I’m not real big on New Year’s resolutions. Not that it matters to the larger world. The inevitable, “What’s your New Year’s resolution?” is a common query this time of year.
Though I can understand the idea of starting fresh with the new year, it seems a bit arbitrary and forced to me, as if the stroke of midnight can magically overcome the inertia of a lifetime. Besides, grandiose pronouncements of future achievements—and let’s face it, they’re often unrealistic— can’t help but set you up for disappointment and embarrassment come early Spring.
Still though, if there’s embarrassment to be had, better to manage it so it falls where it belongs: at the feet of my family and friends. This year I’m resolving to use Windows Mobile to its fullest to simplify my life—that, and world peace.
This year, when asked about my New Year’s resolutions, I’ll simply pull out my phone and turn the tables on the would-be inquisitor.
“Oh, thanks for reminding me. I wanted to record everyone’s resolutions this year. Won’t that be fun? I just learned how to record video on my new phone. You don’t mind letting me practice.”
Depending on the setting, amount of liquor involved, and personality of the subject, varied and amusing recordings should ensue. Being a kind soul, I’ll prod them from their initial shock, before they can say no.
“OK, so give me your resolutions. One for something you want to improve about yourself, and one for how you’re going to improve the world in general. Action!”
Not only will this create cherished memories, but by acting as videographer I can hide behind the lens and maybe even avoid answering the silly question myself. Now that’s leveraging technology in a useful way! By the time January 2 rolls around, I’ll have a storehouse of clips to evoke memories, measure progress, or hold for ransom.