I’m not one for New Year’s Resolutions. I don’t like to put myself into situations where the odds are good that I’ll let myself down. And besides, who says there’s anything about me that needs to change?! Resolution-setting works for some, but it’s just not for me.
I do support picking a theme or a feeling to embrace in the new year!
Last year, I chose a word of the year to set my intentions for the upcoming months. We were expecting our second baby, so I chose “change” as my word of the year. I knew that a new baby would bring change for everyone in our growing family and I wanted to lean into that. I framed change as a positive experience rather than allowing myself to become overwhelmed by it.
This year, I’ve decided to pick a feeling instead of a word. I’m going to strive to feel empowered and self-assured. Unlike setting a resolution, aiming for a specific feeling allows me to have moments or days where I miss the mark and nothing is ruined! There is always the opportunity to shift my mindset, center myself, and keep moving forward.
Instead of adding something new to help me achieve this, here are 5 things to leave behind in the new year.
Comparison
Comparison truly is the thief of joy. The saying might be cheesy, but it is for real! Stop looking over the fence at your neighbor’s lawn; the grass is greener where you water it! Unfollow that “perfect mom” on Instagram if she makes you think poorly of yourself or your abilities. Don’t judge your own child against the development of their peers.
Self-Doubt
You are enough, you do enough, you are a fantastic mom, a wonderful partner, a hard-worker, and you care for your family in a way no one else can. You are capable. Don’t let your fears put you on the side-lines!
People Pleasing
Learn to say no and use it as a full sentence. Stop bending over backwards to make things easier for other people if it makes life for you or your family harder. Set those boundaries and stick to them. I struggle so much with this, so I know that it can be difficult!
Putting Yourself Last
I read something today that said “If, as a mother, I always put my needs last, I am teaching my children that some day they won’t matter either.” It stopped me in my tracks. A few weeks ago I stopped working out in the basement during nap time and started doing it on the main floor while the kids were awake so they could see. It has become so important to me that my children see me taking care of myself so they learn to prioritize taking care of themselves, too.
Distraction
If there’s one thing the past two years have taught me, it’s to not take time for granted. Being present is a gift! Get on the floor and play with your kids, put down your phone, make strong eye contact during conversations, aim to make everyone you encounter feel like the most important person to you in that moment. Multi-tasking is something I have valued in other seasons of life but right now I strive for focus.
I am hopeful for what the new year holds for me and my family! Let me know what you’re hoping to leave behind in 2021 and your intentions for the new year!
