I used to LOVE new years resolutions. We had a tradition with them where we shared, wrote them and other activities related to sending them into the universe. Like many, my resolutions often did not seem to stick.
A few years back I started to change how I approached resolutions. Instead of hard and fast set resolutions such as, I will workout 5 days a week for 30 minutes, or I will only eat 1700 calories, I made much more flexible ones. The point of a resolution is to help you be a better version of yourself, so making smaller more manageable goals is a much more sustainable way to achieve them.
It’s great to have high expectations and the belief that they can be reached but if they are too high and not working, change them instead of tossing them out altogether.
My resolution last year was to cut down on my food waste. I often left things in the fridge that I bought and ate out instead. As I reflect, I think I did a great job at this goal, but I still have room for improvement. It’s something I want to continue to focus on but since I feel I do a better job at it; I won’t make it a goal this year.
This year I had a few main resolutions and then a few more broad ones. My three main ones that I am currently tracking are to cut out added sugars, most of the time, if I make a mistake then I can just try again the next MEAL, not day, not Monday, not week! I used to toss the whole day to shit if I messed up at all and would just kind of spiral but now, I just try to get back on track the very next time I have the opportunity.
Added sugars are a huge issue today! It’s in so many things and added sugar has been linked to a lot or scary, preventable diseases. I’m a big believer that every now and then is ok but when I’m left craving it daily, it’s a problem!
Another goal I have is to focus on adding more intentional movement into my day. I opted to set a goal of just 15 minutes a day. I left this open so it could be dancing with my girls, yoga, riding bikes, walking or anything that got my body moving! With a toddler and infant at home I can’t guarantee I’ll wake up early to workout or be able to get a solid 30/45 minutes of alone time to do a workout.
The next one I have is related to minimalism, kind of. I don’t want to be a minimalism per se but I do want to own less so that I do not feel overwhelmed with my stuff. I notice my girls play better with less toys, cleaning takes less time, laundry takes less time, and I can focus on living vs. cleaning/organizing. I want to be intentional about what I buy and reduce spending! I also notice how much better I feel mentally when my space is clean and there is less in it!
I am using a habit tracker to track each of these goals. Again, I am not super strict! If I danced with the girls for 13 minutes that counts for me as my movement. If I had a breakfast sandwich that had 2 grams of added sugar, but I intentionally skipped the donuts, cookies, or whatever obvious sugar than I am counting that as a win! As you can see, I have messed up a few days but owning it and trying again ASAP is helping me stay on track and accountable!
I printed this habit tracker from the morningmotivatedmom.com. She has a few different styles available for download and as you can see you can add a ton of habits/lines!
So here is to new year, SAME you but making small changes to improve the pretty great person you already are! If you’ve already messed up on your resolutions, don’t kick the whole thing out just readjust your goals and try again!
On a final note, I want to say I am so happy you are here and hope to see you around more often! I can’t wait to share some of my wellness strategies and ideas to live a healthier, more natural life!
Thanks for all the great tips.
I’m glad you like them thank you!