Category: Happiness

Goal-setting season is coming.
But before planning more, it’s worth pausing.

Here’s a simple 3-step exercise to do before you set goals.

Step 1: Look at what drained you

Not everything that looks productive is worth repeating.

Ask:

• What consistently exhausted me?

• What goals felt forced?

Energy is a clue.

Step 2: Notice what gave you energy

Pay attention to what felt sustainable.

Think about:

• When did I feel calm or focused?

• What routines supported me naturally?

This is where your real goals begin.

Step 3: Decide what not to aim for

Clarity often comes from subtraction.

Choose:

• One thing you won’t push for next year

• One expectation you’ll release

Daily reflection prompt:
“If next year felt lighter, what would I stop forcing?”

And if you’re still deciding whether daily or weekly reflection fits you best, I’ve written a post that walks through that choice—you can check it out anytime.

Christmas isn’t joyful for everyone—and that’s okay.
If the season feels emotionally heavy, this post is for you.

Step 1: Accept your real experience

You don’t have to feel festive to be grateful.
You don’t have to perform happiness for others.

Give yourself permission to feel exactly what you feel.

Step 2: Set one small boundary

You don’t need to change everything—just one thing.

Examples:

• Shorten one visit
• Say no to one obligation
• Protect one quiet hour in your day

Small boundaries create big relief.

Step 3: Create a private daily ritual

A few minutes alone with your thoughts can ground you.

It could be:

• Writing one honest sentence a day
• Reflecting in the morning or before sleep
• Noticing how you’re actually doing

Daily reflection prompt:
“What do I need less of tomorrow?”

If you’re torn between using a daily or weekly format for this kind of reflection, I’ve shared more about that choice in another post—you can read it here when you’re ready.

Christmas often comes with mixed emotions.
There’s celebration, but also exhaustion. Gratitude, but also unfinished plans.
Before rushing into next year, here’s a simple 3-step way to close this year gently.

Step 1: Release what didn’t work

Not everything that failed needs fixing.
Some things were simply not meant for this season of your life.

Ask yourself:

• What effort drained me more than it gave back?

• What expectations can I finally let go of?

Letting go is not quitting—it’s making space.

Step 2: Notice the quiet wins

Not all progress is loud.
Some of the most important growth happens internally.

Reflect on:

• One habit you kept, even on hard days

• One way you handled things better than last year

These moments matter more than milestones.

Step 3: Carry only what feels right

You don’t need to bring everything into the new year.
Choose just one feeling, value, or intention to continue.

Daily reflection prompt:
“What part of this year do I want to honor instead of erase?”

If you’re unsure whether a daily or weekly reflection style suits you, I’ve written a separate post to help you decide—feel free to read that next.