This time of year we all think about what we would like to change. For example, I would like to workout more, eat healthier, save money, spend more time with my kids, spend more time outdoors, and explore new activities my family can enjoy.
How am I going to make this happen? Small changes. Small changes make the difference. If any of you like to read self help books; there is a great book called “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. I loved his book and I utilizes his advice in my daily life. We all like the idea of change but executing it is the problem. For example, the book talks about choosing a place and a set time. My goal is to workout 5-6 days a week. Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday. I workout 30 mins after work doing home workouts. On Tuesday, Saturday it is in the gym. Friday is normally my rest day. I also like to sprinkle in exercise while I am at work. I’ll do 3 sets of 25 on squats, 3 sets of 10 on lunges, and 3 sets of 10 on wall push ups. I will do some charting and then do one set. Do a little more charting and then do another set. This pattern continues throughout my day and it is a good mental break from work. The hardest part is showing up.
Weekends we try to go do something outdoors with the kids. Beach, Park, Amusement park. Really anything that can help them burn off energy. If we aren’t outside we do a fun indoor activity. It could be a game, playdoh, library, or baking. I am making it a goal of utilizing less screen time. I do enjoy laying on the couch and watching TV but one of the reason I left my old job was to spend more time with family. My kids will only be young once and the older they get they won’t want to spend as much time with me.
This year I have been writing down everything. I have a lovely planner I got from Aldi which I love. It has stickers, a big calendar for each month and then individual days. It also has to do lists, grocery lists, goals, a budgeting area, and more. Each day I make it a point to make a small to do list and whatever doesn’t get done gets moved to the next day. This year is blogging once a week so I work on a little bit at time, chores, yoga/ workout, and appointments are on there. Each day I am kept on track and it is satisfying checking off what has been done.
One thing I am learning by staying organized is I have more time with my kids and my day is more productive. Another thing is I need to set aside time for myself to be a better parent for my children. Parents don’t be afraid to make some goals for yourself. You deserve to have some time even if it’s just 30 mins. Be kind and show yourself some love. Remember the goal is to improve you and your child’s year.
The year is long and nothing always goes as planed but my goal is to try and accomplish my list above and if all else fails there’s always next year! What goals do you have for this year and how do you plan on achieving them?
