Ah, the new year. That magical time when the calendar resets, the leftover holiday cookies mysteriously vanish, and we tell ourselves, “This is the year I get my life together!” Fast-forward a few weeks, and we’re panic-Googling how to organize the junk drawer while eating snacks for dinner. Sound familiar?
Here’s the deal: resolutions tend to crash and burn because they’re too extreme. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on goals—realistic ones that simplify your life, create balance, and are actually doable for you and your family. Let’s dive into some practical, fun tips to kick off the new year with less stress and more joy.
For the Adults: Manageable Goals That Actually Work
1. Embrace the Power of “No”
Let’s start with this gem: you can’t do it all. Say “no” to that one extra meeting, bake sale, or event that will push you over the edge.
Goal: Say “no” to one obligation each week and enjoy the freedom. Practice in the mirror if necessary—“No, but thanks for asking!”
2. Make a “Not-To-Do” List
To-do lists are great, but what about the things that waste your time and energy? Doom-scrolling, reorganizing your fridge for the 15th time, or overthinking that “Let’s get lunch!” text can all go on the not-to-do list.
Goal: Identify one time-sucking habit and cut it out (or down). Pro-tip: hand that off to TULA.
3. Schedule “Me Time” Like a Dentist Appointment
If you can keep a dentist appointment, you can carve out 15–30 minutes just for yourself. Whether it’s reading, meditating, or zoning out with a cup of tea, make it non-negotiable.
Goal: Schedule weekly “me time” on your calendar. Protect it fiercely.
4. Tackle One Chaos Zone
Every house has that one thing. The junk drawer, the Tupperware cabinet, or the laundry chair (we see you). Choose one area to declutter and breathe a sigh of relief every time you look at it.
Goal: Start small. One drawer or one shelf—baby steps!
5. Make Exercise Fun (No Gym Required)
Skip the boring treadmill. Dance in your kitchen, join a local pickleball league, or take a walk while listening to your favorite podcast. Moving your body doesn’t have to feel like a chore.
Goal: Find one fun way to move 3 times a week for 20 minutes.
For the Kids: Fun Goals They’ll Actually Stick To
1. Learn One New Skill
Kids thrive on challenges. Whether it’s tying shoes faster, learning a new recipe, or mastering their favorite trick shot, give them a fun goal they can work toward.
Kid Goal: “I’m going to learn how to [fill in the blank] this year!” Keep it simple and praise progress.
2. Start a “Kindness Jar”
Encourage kids to jot down one kind thing they do each week and add it to a jar. At the end of the year, they’ll see all the good they’ve done (and you’ll enjoy a few sibling ceasefires along the way).
Kid Goal: Do one small kind act weekly, like sharing a toy or helping around the house.
3. Get Outside Daily
Fresh air is the ultimate boredom buster. Bundle up for a nature walk, build snow forts, or just let the kids run wild in the backyard.
Kid Goal: Spend 20 minutes outside every day (even if it’s just to yell, “IT’S FREEZING” and come back in).
4. Organize One Thing They Love
Whether it’s their toys, art supplies, or beloved Lego stash, let kids take charge of organizing something they care about.
Kid Goal: Keep one area tidy. Even if it’s tiny, it’s progress!
5. Make a “No-Screen Fun List”
Screens are great, but too much can lead to meltdowns (for everyone). Help kids brainstorm screen-free activities, like building with Legos, playing board games, or crafting something cool.
Kid Goal: Do one “no-screen” activity every day.
Balance, Not Perfection
The key to starting the new year right isn’t about perfection. It’s about setting realistic goals that reduce stress and create balance for the whole family. The beauty of goals (unlike resolutions) is that they’re flexible and achievable.
So, skip the “New Year, New Me” pressure. Tackle one small thing at a time, make space for what matters, and remember to have a little fun along the way. And if all else fails? There’s always coffee, humor, and a whole year to get it (mostly) right.
You’ve got this!