Hello, 2024
I am not a fan of New Year’s resolutions. Why? Because they are about comparison, illusion, and hollow victories. Here’s what I’ll choose to do instead.
We treat New Year’s resolutions like a sprint—get to the destination as quickly as possible—rather than protecting our resources for a marathon with enduring results.
To enjoy true success, you need to establish a long-range vision that lasts beyond 12 months.
So, what’s an ambitious goal-setter to do? Let’s highlight what you should ask yourself to better spot those sabotaging short-sighted resolutions.
Short-sighted Goal: I want to stop yelling at my kids.
Do this instead: I want not to get triggered to raise my voice for 48 hours.
What happens when an elastic band is stretched too thin? It snaps. Patience wanes when we’re tired, and our modern lifestyle pressures us to push through when we’re running on empty and should pull over to refuel. Then, cue the guilt cycle.
The secret is having adequate support and—what is often a consequence of that—reinvesting that time back into self-care. (Think naps, a phone call with your best friend, yoga classes, a cup of tea, and/or a night out.)
This way, when you feel triggered, you have reserves. Plus, there aren’t a lot of parents out there who can go 12 months straight without yelling at their kids. Keep it real and aim for 48 hours, then a weekend, build up to a week, and try to keep building up.
Short-sighted Goal: I want to lose 30 pounds by spring break.
Do this instead: I want to set and consistently achieve healthy goals for 90 days.
You could put in a ton of work to lose a certain amount of weight by a certain date and not do it. Instead, commit to showing up at the gym three times per week and eating healthy, well-balanced meals for the next three months.Then, you can reassess.
So how will you measure your progress? Focus on whether energy levels increase, if you feel more comfortable in your clothes, and if you just have more confidence. These are your real victories.
Shortsighted: I want to get organized.
Do this instead: I want to declutter one area of my life each month.
Being overwhelmed typically leads to procrastination and feeling defeated. Instead of focusing your time and attention on accomplishing one daunting, overwhelming task, choose approximately 12 projects (your closet, inbox, the attic, your finances, etc.).
Commit to tackling one area monthly, and maybe you can delegate another to someone else (YES, we know a few people 😉). Save heavier undertakings for your less busy months. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter and more organized you’ll feel even by the summer.
What would you accomplish if you had trustworthy, reliable, quality childcare to support you? Let us help you find the person who’ll help you breathe easier and succeed in 2024.
Our office will be closed on December 25th for the holidays so our staff can enjoy the season with their families. However, we’ll be back on January 2nd to take on 2024!
In the meantime, here are a few of my favorite twists on familiar staples to combat the school break boredom:
Rather than a traditional snowman, build one upside down, or you can just build an octopus.
No snow? Grab a clear bowl or jar, go for a walk, collect pieces of nature, and build a terrarium. Craft a “Holiday 2023” sign, add it to your winter terrarium, and take a picture.
Have you ever blown a bubble in cold weather? They’re called ice orbs. Mix some dish soap and water, grab some straws, head outside, and get your camera ready for winter magic that your kids will love.
Another classic is to cuddle up in your favorite cozy clothes, grab some crayons, and draw a picture book of your favorite memories from 2023.
Happy Holiday Season and soon HAPPY NEW YEAR!
