Embracing Intentionality and Calm in the New Year

As the clock struck midnight and we welcomed another year, I found myself reflecting on the past twelve months and dreaming about the future. This year, I’m setting a personal resolution that feels deeply meaningful to me: to live more intentionally and nurture a calm and wholistic state of mind.

Life, as we all know, can often feel like a whirlwind. Between work, family responsibilities, and the endless to-do lists, it’s easy to lose sight of the small, quiet moments that bring us joy and grounding. I’ve realized that I want to spend more time embracing those moments—to savor a morning cup of coffee, to breathe deeply in the midst of chaos, and to let go of the rush to always accomplish the next thing.

Practicing a Calm State of Mind

This year, I’m committed to creating space for calm in my daily life. For me, this means prioritizing practices that help me center myself, such as:

• Morning Quiet: This year, I am going to strive to set an alarm (even on weekends) to wake up 10-15 minutes before my daughter so I have the opportunity to spend some time with my own mind and prepare myself for the day ahead.

• Mindful Breathing: Taking short pauses throughout the day to focus on my breath, especially during stressful moments.

• Gratitude Journaling: Writing down three things I’m grateful for every evening to end the day on a positive note.

I’m learning that calm isn’t about eliminating all stress but rather about approaching life’s challenges with a steady heart and mind. It’s about responding thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively, and that’s a skill I’m eager to cultivate.

Exploring New Homemaking Skills

While I spend much of my time focused on doing the things I already know how (cooking, gardening), this year, I want to explore more homemaking skills for my own family. There’s something deeply fulfilling about learning and practicing the arts that make a house feel like a home. Here are a few areas I’m excited to delve into:

• Cooking from Scratch: I already have a healthy hand at bread making, baking, and cooking healthy dinners. I'd like to expand my knowledge to fermentation and pressure canning.

• Gardening: Incorporating more native species and zero-till practices to enhance the biodiversity of my microclimate. Leaning more on Mother Nature, the expert at growing plants.

• Sewing and Mending: Learning to sew simple items and repair clothes to reduce waste and add a personal touch.

These skills feel like a way to connect with the rhythm of daily life, to slow down, and to create something tangible with my own two hands. They’re also a beautiful way to model intentional living for my kids, showing them the value of patience, creativity, and care.

Keeping the Vision Alive

Resolutions often lose steam as the months go by, but I’m determined to keep this vision alive. My plan is to revisit my goals regularly, celebrate small victories, and extend myself grace when I stumble. After all, intentionality and calm aren’t about perfection—they’re about progress and presence.

As I step into this journey, I’d love to hear from you. What are your resolutions this year? How do you bring calm and intentionality into your life? Let’s encourage one another to make this year one of growth, peace, and connection.