Does January sneak up on you every year? There’s just something about December that keeps me running, and I often roll into January like the end of a monthlong marathon. It’s all fun and memorable, but man, sometimes I worry the Christmas hustle leaves poor January feeling like the ugly stepsister.
I love January though. I live for a fresh start, and the first month of a new year is just that.
But new year success begins now… today… in December.
I hate to add one more thing to your to-do list, but if you’re jumping on the resolution train, or, as I prefer to call it, the SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timely) goal train, now is the time to outline what the coming year will hold for you.
Planning new year's resolutions doesn’t have to be a big hoorah though. Just be mindful of jotting down some things you’d like to consider over the next few weeks. Then, pick one night to soak in the bath and fine-tune your list. By December 31, you can cheers to a well-thought-out new year rather than scrambling and anxiously proclaiming “workout everyday” or “no desserts until my birthday” at the stroke of midnight.
On the lookout for resolution ideas? Here are some of mine from previous years and a few I’m mulling over for this coming year:
Unsubscribe from emails
Take an extra 20 seconds to click unsubscribe from those emails you don’t need filling your inbox.
Be in bed by midnight
Set an 11:30 pm alarm, so you can wrap up those final evening tasks and crawl into bed before the next day officially begins.
Read a book series
All seven books of Anne of Green Gables? The Cursebreaker series? A Court of Rose and Thorns? Or maybe choose an author to deep-dive into. I love both Kristin Hannah and Lisa Wingate.
Tidy up your closet
If you didn’t wear it last year, it’s probably time for it to go.
Walk a mile a day outside
Rain or shine, get that fresh air.
Take a probiotic every day
Gut health is a must. Habit stack and determine when you can fit this into your day easiest.
Start the day with protein
No more skipping or just drinking sugar-laden coffee. Choose eggs, avocado toast, Greek yogurt, or a shake to start your morning off strong.
Stop tossing food
Grocery costs are astronomical right now. Start saving by using what you buy. Eat those leftovers, freeze things that are close to expiring, and meal plan. This is a big one, but it will have such a positive outcome.
Finish your child’s baby book
I love that a single task can make a resolution list. What have you been aching to cross off your to-do list?
Say goodbye to maternity clothes
Done with babies? Pack it up and pass it on — it served you well.
Write one note a month
So much is digital these days that I fear handwriting has fallen by the wayside. Every month, jot down a note to a friend or family member and pop it in the mail for some surprise cheer.
Ready for my biggest goal in the coming year?
I’m going to refresh my underwear drawer. It’s in a sad state. Each month I’m going to pick up one or two pairs. A full overhaul isn’t really in the budget, so I’m going to pick away at it. By the end of the year, my underthings will be fresh and fabulous, which translates to black and comfortable. I’m also planning to read 10 pages of nonfiction each day to keep my mama brain sharp. First on the docket: Holy Hygge, Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind, and Defy the Odds.
Happy resolution planning – you can do it!
