A Simple New Years Resolution Goal-Setting Guide

If you're anything like me, the new year probably feels like a mix of “fresh start” vibes and “ugh, one more thing to think about”. Between the endless to-do lists, kid chaos, and work-life juggling, who has time for fancy goal-setting worksheets and 12-step plans? Not us.

But here’s the thing: setting a few small, realistic goals can actually make life feel a little smoother (and dare I say, more rewarding 🙌). No, you don’t need to overhaul your life or aim for perfection—this is all about small wins that build up over time. Plus, every goal you set is a step toward becoming the best version of yourself. Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistently improving, little by little.

Here’s my super simple, low-pressure framework to set your New Year Resolution goals for the year ahead. Let’s break it down:

1. Something for YOU

Yes, YOU. Not the kids, not the partner, not the pets. What’s one small thing you can do to feel more like yourself?

• Examples:

  • Read one book a month (or listen to an audiobook while folding laundry—double win!).

  • Start a 5-minute journaling habit to brain-dump your thoughts.

  • Schedule one kid-free outing a month, even if it’s just grocery shopping with your favorite podcast.

2. Something for Your Health

No need to train for a marathon (unless that’s your thing). Just pick one small way to feel stronger, healthier, or more energized.

• Examples:

  • Do a 10-minute dance party in your kitchen every day (trust me, it counts!).

  • Aim for 10,000 steps most days—chasing kids totally adds up.

  • Add one extra veggie to your plate at dinner. Bonus points if you trick the kids into eating it too!

3. Something for Your Household

The house is never really clean when you have kids, but small wins can keep it from feeling like total chaos.

• Examples:

  • Pick one small area to declutter each month (hello, junk drawer).

  • Establish one “clean up” habit, like a 10-minute family tidy-up before bedtime.

  • Meal plan just the dinners for the week—it’s a game-changer.

4. Something for Your Work Life

Whether you’re working from home, at the office, or running the whole show, there’s always room for tiny work wins.

• Examples:

  • Set boundaries on your work hours (because emails at 10 PM are not it).

  • Learn one new skill or tool that’ll make your workday smoother.

  • Take 5 minutes every Friday to plan your top 3 priorities for the next week.

How to Make your New Years Resolution Stick

• Write It Down: Keep your goals somewhere you’ll actually see them. A note on your phone? Sticky note on the fridge? Whatever works!

• Start Small: Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Pick one thing for January, then add as you go.

• Celebrate the Wins: Did you meal plan for two weeks straight? Got those 10-minute workouts in? Celebrate!

The best part? You don’t need to have it all figured out on January 1st. Life happens, goals shift, and that’s okay. The important thing is that you’re taking tiny steps to create a life that feels good for you. By focusing on small, steady improvements, you’ll be amazed at how far you can go.

Here’s to a new year filled with small wins, big love, and a better version of yourself every day. You’ve got this. 💪