Looking ahead into 2023

I have a few set goals for 2023. Normally I don’t write new years resolutions, however, after feeling that some of 2022 was just “numbing” (not sure what word to really use, “languishing” could also be fitting), I really have some concrete points that I will bring into the new year. I have a personal planner with goals related to health, money, social life and everyday routines and here are some of these goals in more depth:

Health: I know that proper nutrition is so important for my well-being and yet I have made too many bad choices this past year. Just limiting processed foods to a minimum will help a lot. I feel like the past months have been a rut with easy choices food-wise and it needs to stop. My plan is to do weekly grocery shopping and use some of Sunday to meal prep for the week ahead. Everyday life is busy with a full-time job and kids and having chopped foods ready in the fridge is so valuable and ensures that we eat properly throughout the week. I already work out a lot, just check my account for the main topic there, so that part of my health is taken care of. This is a grocery haul I got from my sister's garden earlier this year and how I want my kitchen to look every day (more riped tomatoes though):

Morning routines: Getting up before the rest of my family to have peace around a cup of tea really saves the day. It must be balanced of course, because I need my sleep too, but getting to bed at decent hours and getting up 20-30 minutes before the rest is all I need and makes such a difference. This time also allows me to check my personal planner to make sure I remember my goals and wishes for the year. My planner is already in-house:

Social: We moved during the pandemics. Let’s just say that it was a bad time for moving if you want to get to know people in your new place of living. Everyone is keeping their distance and if you do go somewhere, everyone is wearing a face mask. I felt that no one was interested in getting to know new people, which I also can understand when you have to keep distance to your normal crowd. Now all restrictions are lifted and have been for almost a year, but I find that making new friends take time. In 2023 I will join a new social activity with other local adults and use time to connect with people through my kid’s school and activities. I will also make sure to regularly text and call friends who live other places. A little hint to the new social activity I will join:

Let’s see if these strategies help 2023 be less “numbing” and makes me feel happier and more alive. I think the pandemics made me too introvert and I want to find back to my more outgoing self again.

Thanks to everyone who have read this far. I wish you all a happy new year and hope that you all achieve your goals.