The Marriage & Motherhood Podcast: Your New Year Resolutions Can Wait

As we kick off the new year, I wanted to share a little insight on how we can approach this time differently. We often hear the buzz about setting goals and achieving big things as soon as January hits, but let's consider a different perspective.

Embracing the Season

You know that feeling of being pushed into a whirlwind of resolutions every January? Lose weight, get fit, conquer the world—all before February! It's this intense rush to achieve. But have you ever thought that maybe, just maybe, the struggle to stick to these goals is because we're fighting against the natural rhythm of the seasons? In nature, winter is a time for hibernation and reflection, not a sprint to the finish line. Animals and plants slow down, so why are we trying to speed up?

Finding Balance in Winter

Sure, not all of us can hibernate like a bear, but there are ways to slow down and align with the season. Winter is perfect for taking a breather, reflecting on the past, and setting a sustainable pace for real growth. It's not about doing nothing—it's about doing less and doing it mindfully. Embrace nourishing activities, like cozying up with a hot cup of tea or diving into a thought-provoking book. Allow yourself moments of reflection to plan your next steps without burnout.

January: The Month of Rest

Think of January as your rest month. You've just jumped through holiday hoops with Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's festivities. It's been a whirlwind! Now is your chance to rest and rejuvenate. Remember, rest isn't the thing we have to earn by overworking ourselves—it's something we should give ourselves freely. Reflect on what's important to you and identify what you truly want to carry forward.

Nurture Yourself

This is your time to nurture yourself, just as you'd nurture warm, hearty meals in the cold season. It applies to all aspects of life: marriage, motherhood, personal growth. Are your relationships where you want them to be? Are there aspects you want to improve? It's not about drastic changes; it's about incremental, intentional steps toward a better you and a better life.

Plan with Intention

This period of quiet reflection offers an opportunity to steer your life in the direction you choose. Talk to your family about shared goals. What projects do you envision completing together? Balance all the things you want to accomplish with the understanding that not everything has to happen right now.

Encourage Self-Reflection

At the end of the day, it's about considering your needs, too. How can you include yourself in the equation and ensure you're not just running on empty? How can you nurture yourself more than you did last year? These moments of quiet and self-reflection are essential in helping you create the life you desire.

So, let's take this chilly season as a reminder to slow down. Let's build lasting habits with intention and care. And hey, if you need a little support, I'm here cheering you on!