6 Things I’m Doing in 2019 to Be Happier

 I can’t tell you how many “inspirational” posts I’ve read about ditching New Years goals and just be happy with who you are as a person, yada yada. Bitch please, this time of the year is my reset button and the new year always lights a fire under my butt to reassess what makes me happy and tackle new goals.

So read on for some of my ideas and plans to be happier and healthier in the new year:

Mini Home Makeovers

I’m trying to save money and re-prioritize what I spend my money on. I can spend all my cash on designer purses, but hell if I’m going to spend the same amount on a piece of furniture.

And I’ve realized that my cheap ass furniture hurts my back and while aesthetically pleasing, the quality and comfort isn’t there. My goal is renovate my basement, update my living room with new, comfortable furniture and slowly update my closet room (which I’ve gotten a start on!)

No Pressure for Travel

Most people’s goals include more travel and exploration. My goal is to cut down on what little domestic traveling I do just for my own sanity. Traveling stresses me out and I didn’t do much traveling beyond a couple mini road trips and a week vacation in Mexico in 2018. And this year, my plan is to again is to travel less, but perhaps more camping trips near me in my motor home.

Continue to Foster Dogs

I fostered one cavalier king charles spaniel through Cavalier Rescue and was able to save another one from the animal shelter finding her a wonderful foster and now they both have wonderful homes. I cried when I had to give up both and I didn’t think I would be ready for that experience any time soon, but I am ready again for it. I’ve been wanting a second dog, but I think I’m going to hold off and wait to foster more. And of course, just after I wrote the post, I volunteered to take in a new foster dog who I’ve renamed Josie.

Cook and Bake More

I spent a lot more time in my kitchen this past year trying new recipes and meal prepping and planning. I felt healthier and I saved money–and I felt a sense of pride for finally cooking all my meals. Plus, Matt appreciates it which motivates me to cook and find new things to prepare.

My goal is to cook and bake more challenging recipes and attempt to make more things from scratch like meatballs, pie crusts, you name it!

Organize, Declutter, Minimize

In just 2.5 years in my home, I’ve stuffed it full of things I don’t need. I have extra TV stands, stools, an office chair, dining chairs, rugs, clothes, decor and more sitting in my basement alone that I don’t need. Plus all the closets and cupboards stuffed with stuff I hide. So far, I’ve cleaned out the garbage in my basement and reorganized it for the renovation, but still need to tackle the kitchen cupboards and closets.

Go After Things that Scare Me

Everyone has those ideas they day dream about and wish they could, but think they can’t do it. My big idea end of 2018 was to become a fitness instructor, but I thought I wouldn’t be a good enough public speaker or have any of the skills needed since I’m not a certified personal trainer. But I’m going after it anyways! This scares the shit out of me, but I need a new challenge in life. So I’m hoping I start to teach soon and push those boundaries of comfort.

What are your 2019 goals? Would love to hear them if you have any!

Top and sweater from Retail Therapy | bag by Gucci | jeans from Madewell | hat by Lack of Color

Photography by Jen Reid