If you’re one of the 12 people that regularly read my blog then you’re probably already aware that I’m a bit of a nerd. I love journals and planners, checking my budget, creating to-do lists, writing, and making big plans each and every year. Obviously I really geek out over New Year’s then, right? Just like not understanding people who operate without budgets, I really don’t understand why more people don’t get excited about setting New Year’s Resolutions.
I guess New Year’s resolutions have gotten a bit of a bad rap over the years because people tend to get excited about them on January 1st and then when their motivation fizzles out in February they decide resolutions are dumb. To me though, January 1st signifies a blank slate. It’s a time to look back at what you liked about the previous year, what you didn’t like about it, and what you want to accomplish in the new year. I have big plans this year to focus on my writing, hence the Year of Creating my Empire tagline.
It’s been proven (you’re going to have to believe me here, I’m not going to dig up one of the multiple studies to cite) that people who write down their plans/resolutions/goals, etc., are more likely to achieve them. Want an extra layer of accountability for yourself? Broadcast them to the world so your best friend (or enemy) can stay on your case about your progress throughout the year. So, without further ado, here are my goals/resolutions for 2019.
Financial
I want to double my emergency fund this year. This is a big goal because there’s not much wiggle room in my budget but I think it’s an important one. I’ve also got a couple of projects that will need to be done at my home this year that might be pricey so we’ll see if this one works out but I’m going to do my best.
$4,000 in extra income this year: this is also a stretch goal because my new position doesn’t have bonuses like I’m used to at my previous job. That just means I have to get my hustle on this year and see if I can monetize this little blog or get some writing gigs.
Blog/Writing
3 blog posts a month and finish my EBA course in 2019
Either sell some of my writing or set up a side writing venture (stay tuned for those exciting details as I work them out this year)
Personal/Home
Declutter my house. I want to get rid of 120 items this year. (Really just an excuse to create a new spreadsheet)
Hang my artwork
Read 36 books and at least 12 of them will be non-fiction
Healthy Living
3 glasses of water a day (no excuse to not accomplish this)
Start a meditation habit (I need more Zen in my life)
30 minutes of exercise at least 3 times a week
Okay, that’s probably enough. I tend to go overboard and then I end up scratching my head at why I didn’t accomplish everything. I am going to try something new this year though. These are my overall goals and resolutions for the year but each month I’m going to have a focus challenge also. Each of the monthly challenges will ultimately be set up to help me with one of my overall goals though.
Okay, I really need to know… how many of you create resolutions or goals for the year? If you don’t then share why please. No judgments here…we’re like Planet Fitness and we’re a judgment-free zone here. I might make fun of you a bit but I do that to everyone so it’s okay.
I don’t make resolutions per say, I’m just not a planner. That being said, I do have a few things I try to refocus on, healthier eating and getting back to a budget! I think your plan for this next year sounds amazing and I’ll be staying tuned to watch you succeed!!
Do you have any recommendations on budgeting, a really simple app for example?
Honestly I’ve always just preferred using a simple Excel spreadsheet that I’ve set up. I have tried Mint and Personal Capital before and I’m thinking of trying them again this year for two reasons. One, is that I think it would be easier to keep track of my balances and such on my phone and also because I think they might have some tools to help analyze my spending and such.
Thanks for commenting!