Just like that, 2019 is already here. The Christmas excitement is wrapped away until next year and I’m looking forward to this next year. I’m not one to set grand resolutions, start a fad diet or a crazy workout plan. In my opinion, strict, intense plans are hard to stick to and don’t necessarily set you up for success. I prefer to approach the New Year by reflecting on the past year, the hard and the good, and determining some areas I’d like to focus on in the upcoming year. I think it’s important to note that you can reflect, set goals or shift your mindset any day of the year — it doesn’t have to be on January 1! Give yourself grace during this year as real life unfolds and priorities shift.
With that said, here are some things I’d like to focus on in 2019 and beyond:
- Save Dat Money. In the wise words of Lil Dicky, I need to work on saving some cash. I’m mostly good about cooking my meals at home but weekend wine nights out on the town and those $3 bottles of kombucha start to add up pretty quickly. Sooner rather than later, I’d like to pay off my college loan and buy a house. I’d like to cut out some unnecessary spending…even when the cutest sweater ever is on sale! #mustresist
- Meditate Daily. I love yoga and quiet time spent reading, but I have been really slacking on meditation. My lack of a practice has been under the guise of “don’t have enough time” but I am completely aware that it gives me more time than it takes. When I practice meditation, I feel more focused, clear and relaxed. I hope to incorporate daily with the Wim Hof breathing technique, which I shared more about in this post.
- Be More Social. I read this and think eeeeek. I’m extremely introverted and love being sort of hermity, but I know I need to make a better effort to get out more. Yes, my couch and yoga mat are cozy but this year I want to spend more time with friends, prioritize my relationships and put myself out there even if I feel awkward. It can be hard to leave the comfort of my apartment, but I need to remember that I (almost) always have fun when I do.
- Pay Attention to My Interactions. This year, I want to be more focused in my day-to-day interactions. I live in my head and am a pretty quiet person, so I’d like to focus on being more welcoming and even a little more outgoing this year. I want to be more patient. Instead of seeing interactions (especially at work) as what others need from me, I’d like to shift my intention to how can I be of service. Even if it’s as simple as smiling more or asking, “how can I help?” I hope to be more intentional in making others feel seen and heard.
These aren’t SMART goals with a strict deadline and due date, but they’re meaningful to where I am in my life right now. These shifts are focused on being intentional with how I spend my time and money, and how I connect with myself and those around me. When I look ahead, I don’t think about what I need to take away, but what can I add to my life to get me where I want to be as the person I want to be.
How do you like to approach the New Year? Resolutions, goals, intentions? Let me know in the comments below!
Hi Morgan! I like to approach the new year with intentions… Goals always seem too intimidating… and Resolutions make me feel like the last year wasn’t acceptable. I love the idea of intentions… things that I intend to improve. I’m currently working towards drinking more water, spending more time reading, being more present (limiting social media use), moving my body more (either through yoga or walking), and also exploring more of the world. I realized I’ve only visited 9 of our beautiful 50 states and I’m almost 30 years old! 😀 Like you, I’m also trying to spend less money this year… I’m attempting a No-Spend Year (except for buying essentials), which will definitely be a challenge, but I’d like to pay off my student loans in the next 10 years!! I love that you are focusing on being more social! As an introvert myself, I know that this can be tough to do at times, but it always feels great once you are out with friends. I enjoy reading your blog and I appreciate all of the yoga wisdom that you share! Happy New Year! 🙂