Another year is in the books. Congratulations mama, you survived!
On this New Year’s Day, take time to savor in accomplishing yet another year, and resolve to make this year your best one yet.
Whether it’s achieving the goal you seem to never quite reach, or crossing another item off your bucket list, commit to make this next year the year to get it done. Overwhelmed at where to start? Relax, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 5 things you should strive to accomplish next year:
1. Put down the sugar. Seriously
I know, you’ve just made it through another holiday season of sweet treats and carbs.
Your body and brain are probably still craving sugar and the high of a carb binge.
Multiple studies show sugar is causing a host of problems in Americans, from obesity to diabetes, and can even increase your chance of some cancers.
In addition, it harms major organs in your body.
Dr Axe reported:
“Here’s another reason to reduce sugar intake. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is on the rise in the U.S. And guess what’s largely to blame? Sugar! High-fructose corn syrup hiding out in drinks and processed foods has been called a “weapon of mass destruction.” (5) Nonalcoholic fatty liver occurs when fat builds up in the liver. According to a study conducted at the University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital in Australia, NAFLD is present in 17 percent to 33 percent of Americans.”
Make it a priority to be the healthiest version of yourself.
And if you are craving sugar, consider a piece of fruit to satisfy your sweet tooth.
2. Get Out Of Debt
If you’re like most Americans, you carry a credit card balance.
Perhaps you were a little too charge friendly this Christmas season. Or have never really figured out how to manage finances.
There’s no need to feel ashamed, but make it a priority to get out of debt.
Remember, the borrower is a slave to the lender.
If you struggle with balancing a budget, consider seeking outside help such as taking a class or attending a seminar.
There are guru’s like Dave Ramsey who have mastered the art of getting out of debt and saving for retirement, and instead of reinventing the wheel, learn from those who have done it.
3. Cut Out Social Media
Oh Facebook. It gets us every time.
You may be addicted to receiving likes or scrolling your newsfeed, but consider taking a brief sabbatical from the social media world.
Invest in relationships with those who you see in person.
And if your excuse is you only talk to certain people on Facebook, then pick up the phone and call them!
We’re all known to get lazy at times and substitute Facebook chats for real communication, but it’s not.
And who knows, you might find after your social media fast is complete, you won’t be as dependent on it as you once were.
4. Take Time For Yourself
We know, you do it all! From taking care of your family, working long hours, cooking a hot meal, and keeping the house clean – it’s easy to see why moms are more exhausted than ever.
Have your husband or a friend stay with the kids one day, and take a day for yourself, and do something YOU enjoy.
Whether it’s sleeping in, grabbing coffee at your favorite hole in the wall spot, or going to a spinning class.
It’s okay to indulge once and a while and take a break. Take time for self-care.
5. Explore A New Hobby
Is there something you used to do and have stopped because you no longer have the time? Or, is there a hobby you’ve always wanted to learn?
Well, it’s never too late to start!
Consider taking a painting class, learning how to ice skate, or becoming a published author.
Learn how to take that perfect photo, perfect your singing voice, or finally master a foreign language.
By incorporating a well-loved hobby into your schedule, you’re creating balance and room to breathe.
This next year is a fresh beginning. The old has gone, and the new has come.
Whatever your resolution is, make it a good one, and remember to enjoy each moment and make the most of the new year.