I am seeing and reading lots of posts and updates about reflections of the past year and predictions for the new one.  This new year is even more reflective/prediction-oriented as we are entering a new decade (although it doesn't truly happen until the end of next year).

Ten years ago I was on Kiawah Island, SC to ring in Y2K and, as I recall, didn't think the world was coming to an end and or that every computer system was going to crash but believe I had a bit of extra cash and provisions (other than alcohol) just in case.  I was working for my first start up in Atlanta and the bottom had not dropped out of the technology sector yet.

Fast forward 10 years and I am on a different coast (Seattle) and working for a start up (Gist).  The more things change, the more they stay the same…

2010 will bring many things we expect and more that we don't…like every year I suppose.  Here are some thoughts looking forward to the new year:

World

The world is a dangerous place and we are the biggest target around (regardless of the billions we spend in humanitarian aid around the world).  As such, vigilance and assertiveness are our best defenses.  I still remember what it felt like on September 11th, 2001.  I fear many have forgotten.

Nation

I hope that our national leadership either begins to lead or is replaced by those who can.  Corruption, arrogance, and polarization benefit no one and will continue to feed the populist movement afoot in the rest of America.  Fiscal responsibility and the nurturing (not ownership) of the US economic engine must be a priority. 

Financial Markets

The capital markets continue on minus the casualties and blood letting of the past couple years.  I have no idea where the Dow ends up and don't care much but would like to see profits, earnings, and equity appreciation trend up (see point above) creating jobs and prosperity along the way.

Technology

Technology will continue to advance and as we become more personally connected electronically and share our own electronic narratives I hope our live personal interactions do not suffer.  I connect with many every day through various electronic media but treasure most a face-to-face conversation.

Me

I look forward to 2010 with anticipation.  I am excited to watch my girls continue to grow and will stay focused on treasuring every moment that passes.  I will continue to run, eat, work, and write doing my best to have life experiences along the way and will endeavor to share them succinctly here for your enjoyment.

Happy New Year!