Goals. We hear about them all the time. New year goals, the beginning of the school year goals, career goals, and everything we want to accomplish by a certain deadline.
As I watched a milestone birthday come and go a few weeks ago, I decided that I wanted to think of some attainable goals for myself as I enter into the next decade of my life. Many life-changing events have happened to me in the past year, and I feel like having goals would allow me to realize that things can only get better from here.
In no particular order, I came up with seven goals that I wanted for my career, my physical and mental health, my children, and my relationships with family and friends.
1. Commit to a strong workout routine that works for me.
I have NEVER figured out a plan that works for me. I have done almost every fad diet, had weight loss surgery (and reversed it), and tried several different workouts. As I get older, losing and maintaining weight loss has been rough. I have found that my mental health is so much better when I consistently work out.
2. Travel as frequently as I can.
After having young kids for the past seven years, I have barely been able to travel with them or travel solo. I traveled to many places as a child and hold those memories dear to my heart. I want the same experiences for my children. I also want to go on a solo trip! I have finally learned that prioritizing myself at times only allows me to be a better mother.
3. Foster and maintain healthy relationships with friends and family.
After many years of putting too much effort into relationships and friendships that didn’t reciprocate the effort, I have realized that I will have to make some hard choices. Having solid friendships and relationships will allow me to be the best person and mom I can be.
4. Find a good balance between work and home life.
Balance is such a tricky one. I have struggled with this since becoming a full-time working mom. One of these responsibilities always seems to take a back seat at times. I am hopeful that I can prioritize what I need to be present for.
5. Prepare for the future.
This is so open-ended; however, as much as I hate to admit it, getting older means preparing for retirement, etc. I want to ensure that myself (and my children) are in a good place financially with the continuation of contributions to college funds, 401Ks, and mutual funds. While I have a basic understanding of these things, part of my goal is to have an expert understanding of them.
6. Stop caring what people think about you.
It is challenging to avoid being aware of what others perceive of you. I am so guilty of trying to “keep up with the Joneses” and what others think of me.
7. And finally, BE PRESENT.
As much as I don’t want to admit it, besides me getting older, my children and my parents are getting older. The future is not promised. My goal is to ensure I don’t miss small moments that can create large memories as I enter the next decade.
