Instead of New Year’s “resolutions” I always set “intentions.” Something about just that shift in vocabulary allows a little more flexibility and grace for when life throws you a curveball. Last year, my biggest intention was to be more purposeful with my time, to be a little more selfish, and to say “no” more. At my previous job, I was “voluntold” a lot and always seemed to have more and more piled on my plate. By saying no more, I have been able to say yes to other things I am passionate about and truly be present in my time with Madeline and Corey. I would say I was pretty successful at that intention but others not so much. I intended to re-commit to my workout routine, which didn’t really happen until June (so many months wasted) and to read more. I finished a couple great books last year but I really didn’t get as far as I hoped with that intention. That’s where the grace comes in, though, because reading and exercising weren’t high on my priority list during Madeline’s first few months when she never slept.
For 2017, my biggest intention is to stay present in my time with Madeline and our family. To try not to over-stress about the future, not spend too much time online, and just to really be and enjoy this phase of life that we are in.
I also intend to keep up my workout routine. I am currently alternating 21 Day Fix and Cize and working out 5-6 days a week. I just wish I had started this as soon as I was cleared to work out after having Madeline instead of waiting until our life kind of “settled down” mid-year.
I also intend to get back on track with meal planning healthy meals every week. I’d say we eat healthy about 60-70% of the time now but there have definitely been times this year that we just ordered a pizza or some other take out this year on a random Tuesday because we were just tired and didn’t feel like cooking.
I intend to put more time into my businesses this year. It has been really awesome earning enough money for Target trips and such while staying home, especially since I am currently only putting in about 5-6 hours a week. However, I want to put in a little more and hopefully get a little more out too. I have a hard time imagining transitioning back to a traditional work schedule in the immediate future so I’d like to continue working from home on a greater scale.
Most importantly, I intend to pour my heart into our home and family. I intend to help make life easier for my husband, home a relaxing place, and always find one-on-one time to devote to our marriage. And, to seek out fun ways for Madeline and I to spend our days and give her experiences to enjoy as she learns and grows.
Lastly, I intend to blog regularly and try to continue to cultivate friendships in this community. I don’t want to stick a label on how many times a week or month “regularly” means because all of the above comes first, but I don’t want this little space to fall to the back burner completely again.
Our life is so completely different than it has been in the past but I am so excited for what 2017 has to offer. Happy New Year!
Yes to spending more time with family and being present! So on my list this year, too. What are your businesses?!
I love your rational behind your intentions, rather than resolutions!