We’re a few weeks (or so) into 2014 and sadly many New Year’s Resolutions to lose weight and go to the gym more have already began to fade. Though, I’m happy to report that I have exercised on 20 of the 25 days so far this year! That’s more than 150 inclined-treadmill or elliptical miles at home or at the gym. In any event, keeping a resolution can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. In 2006, I gave up soda, that was rough at first but I made it. Last year I was determined to lose weight and fly more than I ever had in a calendar year. Again, both presented a challenge, but both were accomplished! It is good to challenge ourselves every so often.

So for 2014, I’d like to ask/challenge every pilot to make and KEEP his or her own flying resolution. Set a resolution (read goal) to fly more this year than you did last year. Flying more will improve your skills, make you a safer pilot and give you more time up in the air to enjoy that awesome view. You’ll also have more time to take others up in the air with you. Who knows, maybe someone you take for a flight will get “hooked,” and become a fellow pilot and active participant in our aviation community. If you succeed and fly more this year than last year, great now you have a new total to shoot for next time. If you don’t succeed, you will know what not to do when you get another shot in 2015. So go fly!

-Fly Safe, @MTElia1B9