10 Goals for 2021
10 GOALS FOR 2021
1. Get up early
I have always loved the mornings, but also enjoy my sleep (as I'm sure many of us do). Although, I have to admit, I am LOVING my mornings more and more as I get older. Not only do I get to enjoy the beautiful, calm start of the day before others awake, I get a couple quiet hours all to myself. Time I use to get a head start on my day, time to workout, or just time to meditate and connect with myself. "Good" mornings really can make or break your day.
2. Focus on things I can truly control
This past year has been filled with so many unpredictables that it's made me realize there is no point in stressing over things I can't control. Accepting this reality has already alleviated some unneeded stress and is teaching me to loosen up more and just go with the flow. As the saying goes, everything happens for a reason, and I believe that to be true. Trust the timing of your life and put your energy and time into things/situations you can truly control.
3. Learn from every situation (good or bad)
You can learn from every situation life throws at you. Of course the good situations are wonderful and ideal, but without the bad, we wouldn't nearly enjoy the good as much as we do. Living and overcoming tough situations make the good times that MUCH better. Both good and bad situations can teach us a lot if you're willing to notice them. Allowing yourself to see through the bad can be more rewarding than you imagined and aid in future situations.
4. Stay connected to those I love and care about
Another big take away is that life is even more precious and unpredictable than I realized. I know it's cliche to say "live everyday like it's your last" but there is so much truth to that. Taking the time to reach out to those you care about more frequently is something I really want to work on. It doesn't take that much time/energy to send a text or call, but can make all the difference. Stay connected and keep your circle close!
5. Do what I WANT to do
I've always been a believer in woking hard and playing harder! If I walked away learning anything from 2020, it is that there is no "perfect time" and life will go on whether you're ready or not. So, if you find yourself questioning if "now's" the right time or saying "I'll do it next time" understand there may never be a "right" or "next time". If you start doing what you want, when you want, you'll be on your way to living a fuller and more purposeful life.
6. Read 6-12 books
I've really enjoyed being able read more over the last couple years and look forward to continuing this new habit. Not only does reading give my eyes and brain a break from staring at my phone and computer, it is a refreshing way to escape and stimulate my mind.
7. Journal
Putting pen to paper is a wonderful way to express yourself. Journaling is a great creative outlet and can help release things you may be internalizing or suppressing. It's also a great way to record and document a specific time in your life. I find journaling therapeutic and helpful.
8. Create + stick to my (AM/PM) routine
I have tried a lot of AM/PM routines that have started off strong but slowly gotten away from me. This year I am determined to stick to my AM/PM routine regardless of if I'm feeling sleepy or busy. I'm allotting the time to stick to my AM/PM plan and follow through with it.
9. Work on my mind + body
This is a very important goal of mine this year. Your mind and body essentially make up your whole being. That being said, it is vital to treat and take care of your mind equally as much as you take care of your body. Your mind is very powerful and can work with you as much as it can work against you. Be kind to yourself. Be understanding and realize if you spend the time and energy on working toward your best self, it will benefit you 100x over.
10. Learn to unplug
This past year has taught me that being truly present is more precious than ever. I've learned living in the moment is more important than viewing life through the lens of my iPhone. Don't get me wrong, I love the social media platforms and the ability to connect with the online community, but the in person connections and experiences are invaluable. Too much of anything isn't good, so finding the perfect balance is what I am aiming to do this year. I think unplugging periodically will do me good!
Photos: Lisa Ziesing
Wishing you all a gorgeous 2021! I hope you enjoyed my 10 goals for 2021 and are welcome you to share some of your own! We've overcome so much and now have proof that we're stronger than we gave ourselves credit for. Start each day with a grateful heart and strive to be your best self. If we all focused and worked towards being the best version of ourselves, the world and others would certainly benefit from it. HAPPY NEW YEAR and make 2021 the best year yet!