There are less than three months left in 2021. Yepp, let that sink in! My hairdresser and I were talking about this in my latest appointment, and as excited as I am for fall, it hit me like a ton of bricks and woke me up a bit to realize how little time is left in this year! 2021 has been an amazing year so far, and I feel that most people can agree that 2021 was far better than 2020. This year, I finally got to have my dream wedding, go on a wonderful honeymoon, and have enjoyed settling into our new home. The school year began and feels *almost* back to normal. But with only three months left, I wanted to revisit the goals that I made for myself at the beginning of this year and see what else I can do in these last three months to achieve these goals. So, let’s get at it!
Focus on Body Positivity
I’m not going to lie, I am pretty dang proud of myself for this one! I’m not going to lie, as my wedding approached, I was very conscious of what i was eating to make sure I looked picture perfect for my big day. However, I formed a lot of healthy habits this year that I am proud of myself for. For example, I got into the routine of attending Pure Barre classes a few times a week. I tried a few different workout classes, but learned to love Pure Barre. I found what was right for me and my body and stuck with it, even on days when I didn’t want to. I learned some other healthy habits like choosing healthy snacks like grapes, granola bars and cheese instead of chips or candy. Most importantly, I learned balance, and became okay with it. I told myself that it is okay to have a slice of cake or some ice cream. I learned to not completely deprive my body of what I was craving, which is something that I have struggled with for years.
Put Down the Phone and Pick Up a Book
So….I’m not totally disappointed with myself with this goal, but I definitely could have done better. I read quite a few books this summer, but it took be until June to actually pick up a book. And guess what? Once school started again, I traded in the books for my phone. Before 2021 is over, my goal is to read at least two more books. I feel like that is a realistic number! Any suggestions on what I should read?! If you’re looking for book suggestions, I have a highlight saved on Instagram with all of the ones I read and loved!
Practice Gratitude
Again, this is a goal that I have struggled with throughout the year, but something that I have recently challenged myself to practice every day. If you follow me on Instagram, you will know that I started a daily gratitude challenge where every morning, the first thing I do is post on my stories one thing that I am grateful for. It is so easy to get caught up in the negatives of life, especially in these hard times. I found myself always being sad, mad, or stressed. It got really bad when the school year started and I felt like I was spiraling downwards, fast. That’s when I decided to start my daily gratitude challenge. It truly can change your mindset to spend just a few minutes each day practicing gratitude! Whether you write in a journal, say a prayer, share gratitude with a friend or just have a mental conversation, practicing this for a few moments each day can truly make a big difference.
See a Dermatologist
Well, this one I failed. I did not schedule an appointment to see a dermatologist…I know I still have three months, but I find myself having some new priorities when it comes to my health. I am changing this goal to “see a chiropractor”. I have been having some of the worst back and neck pain I have ever experienced lately! I can’t tell if it is from stress, poor posture, sleeping on it wrong, or a combination of all of the above. Seeing a chiropractor is a big deal for me because I hate the sound of cracking muscles or anything of the sorts! It freaks me out and I have been avoiding the chiropractor for that reason…but I think it’s time I conquer my fear and go! We will see if I am actually brave enough to achieve this goal…
What goals did you have for 2021? Do you check in on your goal progress regularly? Putting into perspective that there are only three months left really helped me to reflect and look back on what I have achieved this year. I have to say, I’m pretty proud of myself! I know there is still work to do, but I have come a long way. Never forget to congratulate and celebrate yourself for your achievements, whether big or small!