Start the Year with Resolutions That Actually Matter

Happy New Year!

Can you believe we’re already stepping into 2025? This feels like the perfect spot to take a deep breath, reflect, and figure out what really matters to us in the year ahead. But before we get swept up in the shiny pull of “new year, new me,” let's slow down for a minute and think about how to make those resolutions actually stick this time around.

The last couple of weeks have been full of the kind of moments I want more of this year. My family and I soaked up every bit of the holiday season—starting with a Christmas brunch at home. My parents came over, and we shared laughs, unwrapped gifts, and cheered on our 1-year-old, who was doing her absolute best to avoid her naps. Then, we spent a few quiet days hiking in Mountain Maryland, enjoying the simple beauty of nature. Those slower moments, watching our baby find her walking legs and settle into the grueling life of a one-nap-a-day toddler, reminded me just how much joy is in the everyday stuff.

Now the decorations are packed up, the cookies are gone, and most of us are thinking about the big goals we want to chase this year. Maybe it’s eating better, getting stronger, finding balance, or simply making time for the things you love. Whatever your goals are, I want to share one thing I’ve learned the hard way.

Setting a big resolution on January 1st might seem exciting, but it’s not usually enough to make it stick. Think back to the resolutions you made last year—or even the ones before that. Don't beat yourself up if your goals didn’t last past February. You’re not alone, and it’s not because you didn’t try hard enough. The truth is, to create lasting change, our goals need to be specific, meaningful, and rooted in the things we really care about.

Before you commit to a laundry list of big ideas, take a step back and ask yourself a few important questions. These might just change how you approach your resolutions—and make them something you’re genuinely excited to keep up with.

1. What habits would make the biggest difference in my life right now?

We tend to overcomplicate things when it comes to self-improvement. Instead of piling on a bunch of overwhelming goals, think about the small, consistent habits that could have the biggest impact. For example, if your goal is to have a stronger core, don’t pressure yourself to master every workout trend out there. Start with something simple, like a quick 15-minute ab routine a few days a week, and build from there.

2. What’s held me back in the past?

This isn’t about being hard on yourself but learning from experience. If there’s something that’s tripped you up before, now’s the time to plan for it. Maybe it’s a packed schedule, a lack of motivation, or not knowing where even to start. Whatever it is, acknowledging the challenge gives you a chance to work around it instead of letting it block your progress again this year.

3. Does this goal really matter to me?

Here’s the most important thing of all—your resolutions should feel personal and meaningful. Take some time to reflect on what matters most to you. Is it your health? Time with family? Personal growth? When your goals are tied to your core values, it’s so much easier to follow through. For example, if family is at the heart of everything you do, your resolution to eat healthier could look like trying new recipes together or planning meals that bring everyone to the table.

When you take the time to answer these questions, your resolutions stop feeling like a chore or a list of “shoulds.” They become something you’re excited about—because they reflect what’s real and most meaningful to you.

Grab a notebook (real or virtual). Write down your answers. Think about the kind of year you want to create—and what you’re actually willing to do to make it happen.

This year, give yourself the gift of meaningful goals—the kind that energizes you, fits into your life, and sticks with you long after January fades.

Here’s to making 2025 the year you look back on and say, “Wow, I really did that.”

And if you could use a little help mapping out a plan that works for you—whether it’s finding time to exercise, improving pelvic floor health, or figuring out how to eat better as a family—don’t be afraid to reach out. You don’t have to do it alone. This year is yours to make unforgettable.