Plans & Goals for 2018

I shared my thoughts on 2017 this week. So, naturally, I wanted to share my plans, intentions, thoughts and goals for the new year. Looking back, it almost feels like last year was preparing me for this year. The bad of last year is going to be equivalent to the good of this year. Does that make sense? At least that's how it feels to me. I couldn't have come through all of that for nothing. I'm not a fan of saying "resolutions." I much prefer to look at it as changing habits, setting attainable goals, and becoming healthier - mentally, physically, and emotionally. My therapist suggested the idea of choosing a word for the year. I've heard of people doing that before, and I immediately decided to pursue it. With a quick Google search I discovered that it's actually a challenge/campaign and there's a book. The authors refer to it as the "un-resolution." My word for 2018 is. . .

I thought about it for a long time - I'm such an over thinker! I'm committing to this word for the entire year and I wanted it to be all encompassing and I wanted to feel a connection to it. As I mentioned in my post from the other day, I felt like last year was a year of becoming better, and this is the year that I'm able to put all that into motion. I want to see movement in my relationships, in my faith, in how I approach life - I don't want this to be a year of sitting still. I want to be in the active pursuit of living fulfilled.

Below are my thoughts and goals for this year. I didn't want this list to be daunting. I didn't want to think about it and feel overwhelmed or feel like there were things on the list I couldn't accomplish and master. I hope this inspires you to choose your own word and create your own list for 2018. I have such a good feeling about this year.

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MENTAL/EMOTIONAL HEALTH

- As I've mentioned before, I started regular therapy last year and I intend to keep going this year. It has helped me clear my head, become more confident and assertive, and live a more fulfilled life.

- I want to explore mindfulness exercises and meditation regularly. I know how good this would be for me, I just need to come up with a routine.

- Journaling was one of the most helpful practices for me last year. I want to continue doing that this year - Bible and personal journaling.

PHYSICAL HEALTH

- I joined a gym right before we ticked over to the new year. My goal is to put in time there at least three days a week. My physical health took a serious hit last year and I'm determined to get back on track this year.

- Cut back on the things I know are bad for me. I'm planning to get tested for a gluten allergy so that could change the game completely, but until I know for sure I want to make an effort to work on being conscious about what I put in my body. I am never going to be a health nut, but there's definitely room for improvement.

SPIRITUAL HEALTH

- There are a couple of Christian women's conferences that I would love to attend this year and Christian authors that I want to hear speak. I'm making plans to definitely pursue this.

- I want to create a better schedule for getting in time with God daily. It's been sort of hit and miss and "when I can." I want to figure out a solid schedule for prayer, reading my Bible, and journaling.

FINANCIAL HEALTH

- I want to be more conscious of where I'm spending my money. I became really good about this last year but I think there's still some improving to do.

-  I also want to start saving more when I can. When there's room to do it, I want to put as much into savings as possible. Having a solid savings account has proven to be lifesaver for me.

- I want to pursue some entrepreneurial ventures this year. I have some ideas in my head and I want to put business plans into place. I'll keep you guys updated!

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BLOG PLANS

- I want to go after more brand partnerships than I did last year. Obviously that's going to mean reaching out to brands often and cultivating those relationships.

- Last year was the least that I've collaborated with other bloggers. I want to get back in the swing of that in 2018.

- Develop a consistent schedule for posting. I've learned that quality over quantity is key. So, instead of trying to do more, I want to do better. I want to give you all better content, consistently.

- Which leads to. . . a content calendar. That seems like possibly the only way to really hammer out the details of lining up quality posts on a schedule.

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I would love to hear your thoughts and plans for 2018! What's your word?!