I find myself in a love/hate relationship with New Year's resolutions and doubt I am the only one that feels that way. The typical approach often feels restrictive and limiting, which is far from the liberating and expansive spirit one aims for in life. However, this year, I've decided to adopt a different perspective on resolutions, steering away from their potential constraints.
Rather than fixating on perceived limitations, my focus is shifting towards the abundance of benefits that come with following through on resolutions. This shift in mindset aims to foster a positive association with my goals, replacing any sense of confinement with the anticipation of growth and fulfillment.
With this newfound perspective on resolutions, I am eager to embark on a journey to make this year my best yet. Here are 7 things I'm am doing differently to ensure a year filled with progress and achievement.
1- Asking for help
It's apparent that striving for independence has been a persistent desire for me, even though I've had a supportive foundation with two incredible parents. For reasons I can't quite pinpoint, self-reliance has been a priority. However, this year marks a pivotal moment as I am determined to change this mindset.
The first step toward this shift began before the new year when I made the decision to hire someone to assist with house cleaning. Struggling with negative perceptions stemming from societal conversations that equate having household help with wealth and privilege has led to a damaging internal dialogue. The self-criticism echoes thoughts like, "Why can't you manage to keep your house clean alone?" or "What's wrong with you?" and even the unfounded notion that "You're failing." In truth, this period of my life is filled with responsibilities—a full-time job, venturing into a new business, and a family- husband, step-daughter, and beloved dog—all demanding my time and attention.
Recognizing the value of my time and mental well-being, I've decided to invest in domestic support. Rather than feeling constantly stressed and irritable while attempting to juggle multiple roles, I am choosing to prioritize being present for my family. It's a conscious decision to allocate resources to create more quality time with my loved ones, even if it means seeking assistance with household tasks. Already, I sense that this shift will be transformative—a game changer that will allow me to strike a healthier balance in life.
2- Slowing down
Discovering the profound impact of slowing down during meals has been an eye-opener for me. Embracing a slower pace while eating aids the body in transitioning to the parasympathetic state, an optimal condition for effective digestion. This revelation prompted me to contemplate where else in life I could introduce a more deliberate pace, savoring moments beyond just meal times.
As part of this commitment to intentional living, I've resolved to allocate ample time in the mornings for relaxation, reflection, and personal engagement before diving headfirst into the bustling routines of daily life. Prioritizing a peaceful start to my day involves waking up early enough to savor moments of tranquility. I cherish this time by delving into my devotional readings, allowing myself the luxury of contemplation and journaling before the rush of the day begins.
This conscious shift toward a more mindful morning routine promises to infuse my days with a sense of calm and purpose, setting a positive tone that resonates throughout my day-to-day experiences.
3- Prioritizing my health
It's remarkable how easily our health can slip down the priority list amidst the whirlwind of daily life and family commitments. I've found myself in a similar situation where the pursuit of wellness took a backseat in recent years. However, this year marks a decisive end to that narrative. I refuse to let the excuse of a busy life overshadow my well-being any longer.
I've come to realize that I do have time for my health; it's a matter of prioritizing it amid competing demands. Acknowledging that my choices shape my day, I'm breaking the habit of opting for extra sleep over a morning treadmill session. While I recognize the importance of rest, I'm committed to carving out at least 15 minutes, five times a week, for a brisk walk on the treadmill. It's a small step, yet entirely manageable. I've discovered that starting with manageable goals often becomes the catalyst for more significant changes.
Moreover, I'm keenly aware of the impact nutrition has on my well-being. Hence, I'm shifting my focus toward mindful eating, choosing nourishing foods that truly benefit my body instead of fleeting moments of sugary indulgence. This shift encompasses being more mindful of what I consume and ensuring adequate hydration by upping my water intake.
By embarking on this journey with attainable fitness goals and a mindful approach to nutrition, I'm setting the stage for a healthier lifestyle. I'm optimistic that these small, intentional steps will pave the way for more significant transformations in my overall well-being.
Compact Walking Pad- https://amzn.to/3S9CO2D
4- No spend days
It's amazing how the ease of online shopping can lead to unnecessary spending, even on items that aren't essential. This year, alongside establishing and maintaining a budget, I'm introducing a practice of "no spend days" into my weekly routine. The goal is to gradually incorporate at least three days a week where I refrain from unnecessary purchases, aiming to eventually reach five no-spend days.
Reflecting on my spending habits, I've realized that beyond essential expenses like gas and groceries, I seldom require additional purchases. The keyword here is "require," and I'm determined to differentiate between genuine necessities and impulsive spending.
Online platforms like Amazon often tempt me to make unplanned purchases, but I'm committed to exercising self-control by limiting my visits to the site. By consciously setting my mind to it, I'm confident in my ability to resist the urge to click "Add to Cart" on Amazon for at least three days each week.
These intentional efforts to curb impulsive spending not only align with my financial goals but also promote a more mindful and deliberate approach to consumption. I'm excited about the positive impact this change will have, not just on my budget, but also on cultivating greater self-discipline and mindfulness in my spending habits.
5- Minimizing clutter
The struggle against clutter often feels like an ongoing battle, with items accumulating unexpectedly. I've found myself surrounded by various items like knick-knacks, an excess of beauty supplies, and clothes that no longer fit, highlighting the issue of overconsumption.
While I deeply appreciate having an abundance of possessions, I'm increasingly aware of the pitfalls of overconsumption. Thankfully, I've discovered a strategy that helps me cut back on clutter: leveraging my iPad and digital tools.
The GoodNotes app has been a game-changer in my quest to reduce physical clutter. With the help of my Apple Pencil, it has allowed me to eliminate the need for countless notebooks and journals by transforming my iPad into a versatile digital space for notes, thoughts, and organization. This shift to a digital platform not only helps declutter my physical space but also provides a more efficient and eco-friendly way to manage information.
Furthermore, I've recently embraced a digital planner using Notion, which has been incredibly beneficial. This platform allows me to organize my life seamlessly without the bulk of carrying around a physical planner. In the past, juggling multiple planners often led to a cumbersome and disorganized approach to scheduling. Notion streamlines this process, providing a user-friendly and portable solution that aligns with my minimalist aspirations.
By integrating digital tools like GoodNotes and Notion into my daily life, I'm not only reducing clutter but also embracing a more organized and eco-conscious approach to managing information and schedules. It's a step towards a simpler, more streamlined lifestyle that aligns with my desire to minimize physical possessions while maximizing efficiency.
My iPad- https://amzn.to/48FYM3J
Apple Pencil- https://amzn.to/3SafByv
Goodnotes App- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/goodnotes-6/id1444383602
Notion- https://www.notion.so (There’s also an app)
Notion Planner Template- https://www.etsy.com/listing/1329320333/notion-template-extended-life-planner?ref=yr_purchases
6- Setting up routines
Having a basic schedule in place can be immensely beneficial, not just for personal organization but also for creating a smoother routine for the entire family. Establishing a loose framework helps streamline daily activities and fosters a sense of predictability that contributes to a more harmonious household.
For instance, incorporating certain tasks into specific days, like our custody exchange day on Sundays, allows for a seamless transition and a comfortable environment for my stepdaughter's return. Implementing a routine where her clothes and bedding are brought downstairs for washing ensures that her space is tidy upon her return, promoting a welcoming and organized environment.
Moreover, completing my morning routine before getting my stepdaughter on the bus and then completing my 15-minute walk afterward demonstrates the benefits and efficiancy of a well-thought-out schedule. This rhythm not only ensures that essential tasks are accomplished but also allows me to prioritize my health and well-being without compromising other responsibilities.
By establishing these routines and integrating them into your schedule, you're not only managing your time effectively but also setting a positive example of organization and structure for your family. This approach creates a sense of stability and support, promoting a more balanced and harmonious daily life for everyone involved.
7- Reducing alcohol consumption
The decision to limit or eliminate alcohol consumption can yield a multitude of health benefits, ranging from improved hydration and better sleep to weight loss, liver health, clearer skin, and can even give your immune system a boost. Personally, I've noticed a significant impact on my mental well-being and cognitive function after a night of overindulgence. Although these instances have become infrequent, I'm determined to take proactive steps this year to reduce or eliminate my alcohol consumption.
While the allure of unwinding with a drink after a taxing day at work is undeniable, I'm committed to exploring alternative coping mechanisms for managing stress without relying on alcohol. This choice is driven by a desire to foster healthier habits that don't compromise my well-being.
By dedicating efforts toward finding healthier outlets to navigate high-stress situations, I aim to cultivate coping skills that positively impact my mental health and overall lifestyle. The goal isn't just to forego alcohol but also to develop resilience and effective stress management techniques that promote a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
This conscious decision to minimize alcohol intake aligns with my aspiration for a healthier, more vibrant life—one where I prioritize well-being and seek healthier avenues to unwind and manage stress. I'm excited about the positive changes this shift will bring, fostering not just physical health but also a stronger sense of mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Ritual Zero Proof Alcohol- https://amzn.to/41SCf1A
Maintaining a focus on the numerous benefits that come with implementing these small, yet meaningful changes will undoubtedly pave the way for a fulfilling and transformative year ahead. Embracing these adjustments isn't just about altering habits; it's about acknowledging the vast potential for personal growth and expansion that accompanies them.
By consistently reminding myself of the positive outcomes—be it improved health, enhanced well-being, a more organized lifestyle, or greater mindfulness—I am nourishing a mindset primed for progress. It's this optimistic outlook that fuels my confidence in the potential of the changes I'm making.
Every small step toward a healthier routine, more intentional living, and improved self-care carries the promise of a more fulfilling and enriched life. Embracing these changes with a focus on the positives empowers me to approach challenges with resilience and determination.
As I navigate this journey of self-improvement and intentional living, I'm filled with excitement and anticipation for the growth, development, and expansion that lie ahead. With each step forward, I'm shaping a brighter, more fulfilling path, confident that these conscious choices will indeed make it one the best years yet and one of personal evolution and abundance.