My New Year's Resolutions and Goals

|| Dress: J.Crew (fall 2017, different color) || Blazer: J.Crew Factory (sold out in orange, same style but different colors) || Heels: kate spade new york (few years old) || Earrings: kate spade new york (gift from my sister) || Ring: Tiffany & Co. || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

The smell of fresh planners and new pens have me feeling giddy with excitement. With the new year here, it's a great time to reflect and revaluate. I saw a lot of change in 2017, both personally and professionally. Adaptability is not in my top five strengths; times like this I honestly wish it was. The past few months I have been juggling jobs, freelance work and my family. My hair is falling out and I have felt on edge. Last week I took a hard look at myself and decided it was time to reevaluate my path.

In 2018, I vow to say no more often. No gets a nasty rap when it comes to the English vocabulary. We are taught from such a young age to fear no. No, don't touch that. No, don't eat that. No, don't hit your brother. I could go on and on. I think that this sticks with us into childhood and extends into adulthood. At work, you feel like you cannot say no because it is a sign of weakness. You can't say no to your best friend because you feel like you will disappoint them. You can't say no to a brand about an unpaid partnership because you feel like you will burn a bridge. Saying yes is what got me here in the first place. Spread too thin and living in constant anxiety about not being able to get everything done is no way to live life.

This year, I vow to be more intentional with my relationships both friends and family. I am a very independent person who happened to get married. I could say the same thing about my husband. We honestly don't require much from one another except for quality time. Jered's other love language is words of affirmation. I am going to go the extra mile to let him know how much I appreciate and adore him. I also want to do this with my other relationships, and this will take some investigative reporting if you will. I want my friends to feel known and understood when speaking with them, sending a gift or spending time with them. We all have our personal preferences, and I need to be more in tune with the people who matter most to me.

In 2018, I am going to treat my body better. I have been working out consistently for almost four years now, between personal trainers and Pure Barre. I want to continue my fitness journey, without a doubt. However, I need to take a hard look at how I am treating my body both physically and mentally. We have been married for almost five years, and I will turn 30 this fall. We do not have children yet; by definition we will be "older parents." I want to be a fun mom like my mom was (I see you, Debbie). That will require being in shape, having energy, and a sharp mind. I am looking at life a little in reverse. I want to do things right now, so my body will thank me down the road.

Taking a hard look at our path is scary. To be this honest with yourself takes guts. I pray that you can muster the courage to do the same (if you haven't already). Let's kick butt in 2018, ready, break!