New Year Resolutions

Starting work on the first Monday of a new year feels slightly more empowering than say a Tuesday. Think about it, you walk into the office refreshed (ideally) and ready to tackle the day, or at least your inbox. You get to see familiar faces that aren’t family (thank goodness!), Lady Gaggia is brewing coffee more delicious than ever, I mean the list could go on. With a new year comes new resolutions that we all make for ourselves. Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with them. I like to have professional new year resolutions but those can sometimes be the hardest. They get a negative reputation for being something that you never follow through with, but this year will be different. I want to do it differently and hoping that you can help keep us accountable. These are my resolutions:

 1. WORK LIFE BALANCE – This will be the most challenging for me as I’m more clumsy than balanced. I’m guilty of work not always staying at work, but it truly is important to prioritize me and create the time to relax, go on that vacation, hobbies, etc. outside the office. I mean UDP is wonderful and never gives me any stress but sometimes it’s good to step out of the office for a short time.

 2. ENGAGING IN MINDFULNESS – I’d like to think of this as being present. It’s way too easy to get locked into our work and lose track of time. This may sound simple thing to work on but when I have my earbuds in and my 90’s pop playlist going I get sucked into work! Sometimes it’s nice to take a break and chit-chat with others, go for a short walk, or just sit and be with yourself even if it is just for a moment. I might need to turn on those “breathe” notifications on my apple watch again to help me with this one…

 3. CREATE THINGS I AM PROUD OF –The saying “we are our own worst critic” comes to mind when I think about this. I’m guilty of passing something off that is maybe 80% where I want it just to get it out of my hands even if I’m not ready to show anyone yet. Deadlines and time will always be there testing me but striving to submit things I am proud of will be what I strive for.

The black eye peas, collard greens and fried fish have been made and devoured (I can’t share my recipe as it is a family secret). 2023, I’m coming for you! I’m ready for the challenges I’ll face and the amazing things I’ll do. I’m ready, are you?