Goals tend to be functional and productive.

Work out every day.

Save $10,000 for a family vacation.

Read 12 books.

And hey, I have plenty of those, too, and we’ll get into them in the next few weeks. But this year I decided to try something new - Create a “Fun” category of goals in 2023! These goals are just that, fun. No productivity, no reps, just joy-bringing stuff.

Without further ado, here are my Fun Goals for 2023!

Get monthly massages - This probably doesn’t require much justification or explanation, because who doesn’t love a great massage! Beyond the health benefits, I find my brain calms in a unique way when on the massage table. I’m relaxed, optimistic about life, and rejuvenated afterward, so why not make that a regular part of my life?

Take my mom on a dream trip to Italy - My mom comes from a proud Italian family, originally from Sicily. Her dream is to see the country, experiencing the amazing food, historical sites, and become immersed in the culture. This Christmas I surprised her with that trip! In late April we’ll fly from LAX to Naples, spend 3 days exploring the Amalfi coast, then embark on an 8 day 7 night cruise around the Mediterranean. I was so excited for the surprise I forgot I actually get to go to. World travel is back!

Go to 10 live shows - I’ve never once regretted going to a concert. Sure, maybe I regret spending ludicrous amounts of money for one (see: Muse in April), but live music is one of the greatest joys in my life. So, it makes the Fun Goal list!

Buy a weather station - I’m a weather nerd. Big time. Any time it rained in elementary and middle school I’d rush home and turn on the Weather Channel to get the latest scoop. Here in 2023 an entire network of amateur forecasters have purchased weather stations that provide microclimate readings and highly specific forecasts. You better believe I’m getting one!

Play a live show - I used to play shows pretty often, in college and the few years after. For the least decade I’ve only played at churches, which, while fun, just isn’t a great creative outlet. My friends Josh, Daniel, and I are starting to brainstorm some music thoughts, planning monthly songwriting sessions, and, ultimately, playing a show by year’s end. I can’t wait!

See all the movies - About 3 years ago I discovered the joy of going to movies by myself. Doing so is a freeing and confidence-boosting experience, so I’ve started doing it pretty frequently. In fact, I went as far as purchasing the Alamo Drafthouse Season Pass. So, why not going see anything and everything? If it’s bad, who cares?

There you have it - my list of Fun Goals for 2023. What are you doing this year to enjoy life and take joy in the simple things?