Happy New Year, friends! It feels like we just blinked, and here we are stepping into 2025. If you’re anything like me, juggling two wild toddlers who think bedtime is negotiable, you’re probably welcoming the clean slate of a new year with open arms—and maybe a big cup of coffee in hand.

I’ve always loved the start of a new year. It’s like the ultimate reset button for life. No matter how chaotic things got last year (and let’s face it, they did), there’s something magical about taking a deep breath, dusting off the planner, and setting some fresh goals. But here’s the thing about goals—they only work if we make them work for us. So, let’s talk about how to do just that.

Start Small and Specific

I used to set these grand, sweeping resolutions like, “This year, I’ll be more organized!” or “I’ll get in shape!” And guess what? By mid-January, those goals were already forgotten, buried under a pile of laundry and half-eaten snacks (thanks, kids!).

Now, I’ve learned to think small. Instead of “getting organized,” I aim for “spending 10 minutes every evening tidying up the living room.” Instead of “getting in shape,” I commit to a 20-minute walk three times a week. These bite-sized goals are not only manageable but also incredibly satisfying to tick off.

Think about it: What’s one small, specific thing you can do to move toward your bigger dreams? Write it down. No, seriously. Right now. (I’ll wait.)

Track Your Progress

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a mom, it’s that progress often hides in the details. Like when my toddler finally stops throwing his underwear across the room—that’s progress, folks! The same applies to our goals.

Find a way to track your wins. It could be a journal, a phone app, or even a colorful chart on the fridge. For some inspiration, check out this article reviewing the best progress-tracking apps. Personally, I love crossing things off a list—there’s something so satisfying about that simple “X.”

And don’t forget to celebrate the little victories. Maybe you didn’t make it to the gym three times this week, but you went once—and that’s awesome! Or maybe you hit your 10k step goal 3 days out of 7. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.

Make It Fun

Life with toddlers has taught me one universal truth: If it’s not fun, they’re not doing it. The same applies to us grown-ups. If your goal feels like a chore, it’s time to shake things up.

Want to exercise more? Turn on some music and have a dance party with your kids. Need to declutter the house? Turn it into a game with a timer and a prize (for yourself, of course—you deserve it!). Or pop in an audiobook or podcast to keep things interesting while going through the motions of cleaning.

When we make our goals enjoyable, they feel less like work and more like something to look forward to.

Be Kind to Yourself

This is a big one. I don’t know about you, but I’m my own worst critic. If I fall short of a goal, it’s so easy to slip into a spiral of “I’ll never get this right.”

But here’s the thing: We’re all human. Life happens. Toddlers get sick, the car breaks down, or you just need a day to binge-watch your favorite show (no judgment!). The important thing is to keep going. Every day is a fresh start, not just January 1st.

Goals for Moms (and Everyone Else)

If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are a few goals I’m working on this year:

• Be present. Put the phone down and really engage with my kids during playtime.
• Prioritize self-care. Whether it’s a 10-minute face mask or a solo trip to the store, take moments for yourself.
• Simplify meal planning. Hello, grocery delivery! (Shameless plug for Friendly Groceries here—it’s a game-changer!)
• Practice gratitude. Every evening, write down one thing you’re grateful for, no matter how small. Even better, write it in a public place in your house. Involve the whole family. 

What’s Your 2025 Vision?

As we dive into this new year, I hope you’ll join me in setting goals that feel meaningful and doable. Let’s embrace the mess, celebrate the wins, and keep moving forward—one small step at a time.

Let’s inspire each other!

Here’s to a year filled with progress, joy, and just the right amount of chaos. Cheers to you, 2025!