Happy New Year Smarties! How’s your 2023 been so far? This year I’m working towards some lofty, but fun resolutions. As you plan your resolutions, aim for goals that are tangible for your lifestyle, fit within your family’s values, and if you need ideas consider adding these to your list!
1. Say No
A simple word that can be so difficult to say. This year say no to more stuff, more commitments, and more stress. By saying no, you’ll actually be saying yes to the things you value more. You will free yourself up to do more of what you want and less of what you feel obligated to do. It’s not easy to look someone in the eye and say “As much as I would like to, this isn’t right for my family,” or even just “No.” Boundaries are important and sticking to them can be tricky. Treat this like a habit; start small, practice, and each time it will get a little easier to do.
2. Less Screen Time and More Reading
Anyone who knows me will have guessed that this would end up on the list. Reading is a huge part of everyday life for our family and the benefits are unmatched. Prioritizing reading over screen time gives us the chance to spend more time with our kids by reading with them, fall asleep more easily by avoiding blue light at night, and noticeably improves our mental health. Even if you aren’t a big fan of reading yourself it’s still a great way to spend time with your kids. Head to a bookstore or the library with a coffee and let your kids wander the aisles!
3. Declutter Regularly
Can you imagine what our homes would look like if we “New Year’s cleaned” on a regular basis? At the start of every year we vow to make this the year we take back our homes or finally tackle that donation pile but there never seems to be enough time to get it all done. Instead of having to devote an entire day, event, or year to decluttering, add it into your regular cleaning habits. Take a little time each week or month to do a quick sweep of your house for things that can go. Whether it’s old food, piled up paperwork, or a donation box strategically placed somewhere, every little bit of decluttering will help.
4. Deep Clean Your Appliances
Taking this one right out of my mom’s playbook. This year take the time to deep clean each of your appliances at least once. Maybe one week your decluttering goal is to clean out the old food in the fridge and while you happen to be getting rid of old food, grab some cleaning supplies to give your fridge a clean as well. Afresh tablets work wonders for your dishwasher, but don’t forget to scrub the filter! Pick up some Citric Acid and OxiClean powder to deep clean your washing machine and be ready to run multiple cycles in a row!
5. Lead By Example
While much of parenting is the constant effort to keep little humans alive who often put themselves in precarious positions, it’s also about being the example. Our kids are sponges, absorbing absolutely everything around them. Let’s make 2023 the year we work on being the adult we want our kids to be like when they grow up. Some things I’ve been working on is limiting my screen time to when my kids are also allowed screen time and using positive self talk when speaking about my body. If I don’t want my kids to do or say it, then I probably shouldn’t either!
2023 is the year for aspiring to be more. Defining clear intentions for yourself and your family can provide the framework for a healthy and prosperous year. I am determined to make 2023 the year of thriving, not just surviving.
– Smarty Jenna Michael
1 comment
Cheers to “Let’s make 2023 the year we work on being the adult we want our kids to be like when they grow up.”!