Smart New Year Resolutions You Can Keep

new year resolutions

 

The new year has us thinking about the way we spend our time and our energy.  What will we do the same this year and what will we change? What smart New Year resolutions will be easy to keep?

 

Each year resolutions are made and broken.  It’s really about life changes, not resolutions.  We want enduring change that we can keep throughout the year.  Start off with big picture thinking to shape the changes you want to make.  Choose just one tip to begin organizing and simplifying your life. What are some smart new year’s resolutions or new year mantras to choose?

 

Take time to make a plan.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to take the time to stop, step back and to put yourself into planning mode. There is rarely an organizing dilemma that can’t be overcome. Once you acknowledge this, you’re well on your way to conquering whatever project is ahead of you.

 

Take baby steps.

I love the joke, “how do you eat an elephant?” One bite at a time! Break down the problem or problem area into small sequential steps. For example, instead of trying to organize your entire bedroom closet–a very overwhelming task for many people–just start by removing five articles of clothing you no longer wear, and putting them in a Donation Bag. Or, instead of trying to get 8 tasks done on your To Do list, focus on just one or two at a time. Begin with just 15 minutes a day in a small area. Baby steps help you start a project and complete it.

 

Do it or delegate it.

Recognize your strengths and weaknesses, and work from your strengths. No matter the organizing challenge or routine, there are just some things that we are not going to accomplish. Choose what you are best at and then find someone to assist you as a partner to get started, help along the way or complete the task at hand.

Less is more.

Simplify your life and your schedule to feel balanced and in control. We take on many different roles and tasks that lead to over commitment and stress. The concept of “less is more” extends to our belongings and schedule. We need a place for everything in our home or office and a time for a routine as well. When we prioritize and stay in touch with these priorities, we feel great about ourselves and our homes.

 

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7 replies
  1. Seana Turner
    Seana Turner says:

    I find planning to be very calming. Sometimes, though, I think I spend too much time planning when I should just start. Starting something I’ve been putting off is probably the most soothing thing I do!

  2. Sabrina Quairoli
    Sabrina Quairoli says:

    I totally agree that less is more. For example, why keep taking care of items on the table that you are constantly moving around but never using, get rid of them and the table will be cleared and give you time for other things to do. Time management improves when simplifying is done. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Ellen.

  3. Linda Samuels
    Linda Samuels says:

    I was just having this conversation with some friends about not being ready for January with our goals and resolutions. We need time to let some ideas simmer before committing to what will be for the year. In past years, I’ve been ready come January 1st. But for the last few as some other routines and traditions have changed, it’s altered when I do my annual thinking and planning.

  4. Ellen Delap
    Ellen Delap says:

    Thanks for sharing your ideas!

    @Seana – it’s the power of the pause that makes the most difference for me. Glad you are ready to spring into action!

    @Sabrina – you are so right that this is the year to let go of those things that have been moving around without a real home.

    @Linda – I believe in letting a little percolation happen too. I am still refining my words and mantras for the year. I look forward to sharing this and look forward to learning your goals too.

  5. Autumn Leopold
    Autumn Leopold says:

    Great post Ellen! My biggest problem is taking baby steps! I go all in a wear myself out then the project gets put on hold lol! So baby steps is a big one for me this year!

  6. Janet Barclay
    Janet Barclay says:

    You’re right – baby steps is the way to go, especially if you don’t have a looming deadline. I worked on one small area (shelf in master bedroom closet) this weekend – it really only took a few minutes, and it made a huge difference! If I’d waited until I had time to work on everything, it could easily have been months.

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