New Year’s Resolutions for Moms | 23 Realistic Ideas and How to Achieve Them

Does the thought of making New Year’s Resolutions for moms make you cringe? If so, it’s probably because you’re doing it all wrong.

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As moms, we have a lot on our plates. We are constantly juggling work, home, and family responsibilities. It can be hard to find time for ourselves, let alone time to focus on New Year’s resolutions.

While every single day brings a chance for a fresh start, there is something about the start of a new year that gets most of us extra motivated to set new goals. The problem is most people pick resolutions that are so difficult or farfetched that we’re breaking them all by mid-January. Sound familiar?

Well, not this year. This year it’s time to forget about the cliche resolutions and instead focus on small and attainable goals that will help to make you a better mom and a better person.

If your New Year’s resolutions usually involve getting in shape, eating better, and spending less money- and you never seem to stick to them- then this list is for you. These 23 realistic New Year’s resolutions for moms are ones that you can actually achieve. And, more importantly, they will make a real difference in your life.

Want to keep track of your goals and resolutions? Grab your goal setting sheet in my FREEBIE library by signing up for my email list!

New Year’s Resolutions for Moms

1. Say I Love You More

One of the best things you can do for your family is to show them how much you love them. Make it a point to say “I love you” more often. Whether it’s to your spouse, kids, or parents, those three little words can make a big impact.

Take Action: If you aren’t the mussy gushy express your love type, start small. Get in the habit of saying, “I love you” before hanging up the phone with your parents if you’re leaving the house, or when you’re putting your kids to bed. Eventually, it will feel natural, and “I love you” will become a normal part of your day to day.

2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

We live in a world where we are constantly bombarded with images of other people’s lives. It’s easy to get caught up in the comparison game and compare ourselves to other moms. Whether it’s comparing our bodies, our homes, our families, or our careers, it’s not healthy. And, it’s not productive.

Take Action: Make a conscious effort to avoid comparing yourself to other moms. When you find yourself doing it, stop and think about something you’re grateful for in your own life. Remember, too, that the internet isn’t reality. A snippet of someone’s life is far from the whole story.

3. Give Yourself More Grace

As moms, we are our own worst critics. We are always looking for ways to improve and be better. But, that quest for perfection can be exhausting. It’s important to give yourself grace and cut yourself some slack. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s all that really matters.

Take Action: The next time you find yourself being hard on yourself, stop and think about all the things you’re doing right. Make a list of all the positive qualities you have as a mother. Remember, too, that your kids are watching you. If you’re always putting yourself down, they will learn to do the same.

4. Just Say No

It’s easy to say yes to everything. But, as moms, we need to learn to say no sometimes. We can’t do it all, and that’s okay. When you’re trying to do too many things, something is bound to suffer. Whether it’s your health, your relationships, or your sanity, you can’t do it all and do it well.

Take Action: The next time you’re asked to do something, start by saying “Let me check my schedule and get back to you.” Then, take a step back and assess whether or not you really have the time and energy to commit to it. If the answer is no, then just say no. It’s not worth sacrificing your own well-being to try to do too much.

5. Get Organized

If you’re like most moms, your life is a constant juggling act. You’ve got a million things on your to-do list, and it can be tough to keep track of it all. Getting organized will help you to be more efficient and productive.

Take Action: Start by decluttering your home. Get rid of anything that you don’t need or use. Then, find a system that works for you to keep track of your to-do list. Whether it’s a physical planner (my fave is the Erin Condren Daily) or a digital one (Google Cal is what I use), find something that you’ll actually use to help you to be more efficient and productive. And, it will free up some much-needed time and mental space.

Grab your free 30-day decluttering checklist in my FREEBIE library by signing up for my email list!

6. Eat Dinner as a Family

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to let dinner time slip away. But, making time to eat dinner as a family is important. It’s a time to slow down, connect with our kids, and enjoy a healthy meal.

Take Action: If you’re struggling to make time for family dinners, start by setting aside one night a week. Then, gradually add more nights as you are able. Don’t be afraid to get creative, too.

If cooking dinner is a challenge, try ordering in or going out (dinner at the ballpark anyone?). The important thing is that you’re spending time together as a family.

7. Schedule More White Space

One of the best things we can do for ourselves as moms is to schedule some “white space” into our lives. This is time that is unstructured and free from obligations. It’s time to relax, recharge, and do something that you enjoy.

Take Action: Start by setting aside some time each day, even if it’s just 15 minutes. Actually, block it off in your calendar so you have no excuses. Then, gradually add more as you are able.

Use this time to do something that you enjoy, without worrying about being productive. Take a bath, read a book, take a walk, or just sit and do nothing. It’s important to give yourself permission to relax and recharge.

8. Spread Kindness

One of the best things we can do for our kids is to model kindness. When we are kind to others, we teach our kids to be kind as well. And, we make the world a better place in the process.

Take Action: There are countless ways to spread kindness. You can volunteer your time, donate to a worthy cause, or simply perform random acts of kindness. Look for opportunities to brighten someone’s day, and involve your kids as much as possible. Teaching them to be kind is one of the best gifts you can give them.

9. Put Down the Phone and be Present

In our technology-obsessed world, it’s easy to get caught up in our phones. But, when we’re constantly looking at our screens, we’re missing out on what’s happening right in front of us.

Take Action: Make a conscious effort to put down your phone and be present. When you’re with your kids, give them your full attention. Turn off your phone, put it away, and engage with them. You’ll be surprised at how much more connected you feel.

Grab your free 30-day decluttering checklist in my FREEBIE library by signing up for my email list!

10. Schedule Workouts on Your Calendar

No one is saying you have to exercise, but if you want to then schedule it on your calendar. Just like any other appointment, you’re more likely to stick to it if you’ve made a commitment.

Take Action: Choose a day and time for your workout, and then block it off in your calendar. Make sure to schedule enough time so you can warm up and cool down properly. Then, stick to it!

11. Practice Gratitude

One of the best things we can do for our mental health is to practice gratitude. When we focus on the things we’re thankful for, it’s hard to dwell on the negative.

Take Action: Start each day by brainstorming a few things you’re grateful for. You can write them down in a journal, or simply take a few minutes to think about them. Then, throughout the day, take notice of the good things that happen. This will help you focus on the positive and find more reasons to be grateful. I personally love my five-year gratitude journal.

12. Make Time for Your Friends

As moms, it’s easy to get so caught up in our everyday lives that we forget to make time for our friends. But, friendships are important for our mental and emotional health. They give us a chance to relax, vent, and laugh.xç 

Take Action: Schedule some time each month to get together with your friends. This can be for lunch, a phone call, or even just a quick walk around the block. Make it a priority, and don’t cancel unless it’s absolutely necessary. Your friends will appreciate it, and you’ll feel better about it.

13. Do Small Things for Your Partner

It’s easy to take our partners for granted, especially when we’re busy with work and raising kids. But, small gestures can go a long way in keeping our relationships strong.

Take Action: Look for opportunities to do something nice for your partner. This could be making their favorite dinner, taking the dog for a walk, or just giving them a hug when they need it. It doesn’t have to be anything big or expensive. Just something to let them know you’re thinking of them.

14. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

It’s easy to get caught up in the little things that go wrong, but it’s important to remember that they’re not worth stressing over. In the grand scheme of things, they’re really not that big of a deal.

Take Action: When something small goes wrong, take a deep breath and let it go. It’s not worth getting worked up over. Just move on and focus on the things that are important to you.

15. Practice Self Love and Self Care

As moms, we often put our own needs last. But, it’s important to take care of ourselves both physically and emotionally. When we do, we’re better able to take care of those around us.

Take Action: Make a commitment to taking care of yourself. This could mean making time for exercise, eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, or simply taking a few minutes each day for some quiet time. Do whatever you need to do to feel your best. Below are some of my favorite items when I need a little TLC.

CLICK THE NUMBER OF THE PRODUCT TO SHOP

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16. Play with Your Kids More

One of the best things we can do for our kids is to play with them. It’s a great way to bond and create lasting memories. Plus, it’s just plain fun!

Take Action: Make time each day to play with your kids. This could be playing catch in the backyard, going for a bike ride, or building a fort out of blankets. Just let your imagination run wild and have fun!

17. Accept the Mess

As moms, we often strive for perfection. But, the truth is that life is messy. And that’s OK!

Take Action: Let go of the need for everything to be perfect. Accept that things will get messy sometimes, and that’s OK. Just roll with it and enjoy the ride.

18. Pray as a Family

Prayer is a great way to connect with our kids and teach them about our faith. It’s also a powerful way to ask for guidance and strength.

Take Action: Make prayer a part of your daily routine. You can pray at meal times, before bedtime, or whenever you have a few minutes. Just take a few minutes to talk to God and ask for His help in your life.

19. Get Dressed Everyday

It’s easy to let our appearance slide when we’re busy with work and taking care of kids. But, trying to look our best can do wonders for our self-esteem.

Take Action: Make a commitment to getting dressed every day, even if you’re just staying home. Taking the time to put on some makeup and nice clothes will make you feel better about yourself.

20. Learn to Meal Plan

One of the best ways to save money and eat healthier is to meal plan. It may seem like a daunting task, but once you get into the habit, it will become second nature and save you so much time and stress on busy weeknights.

Take Action: If you are new to meal planning you can learn everything you need to know about meal planning for busy moms here.

21. Spend One-on-One Time with Your Kids

It’s important to spend time with each of our kids individually. They all have their own unique personalities and needs. By spending one-on-one time with them, we’re able to really get to know them and bond with them.

Take Action: Make a point to spend some time each week with each of your kids. This could be going for a walk, reading a book together, or working on a project. Just make sure it’s quality time where you’re really focusing on them.

22. Find a Hobby

Doing something you enjoy is a great way to reduce stress and add some fun to your life. It’s also a great way to meet new people and connect with others who share your interests. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as it’s something you enjoy.

Take Action: Brainstorm all of the things you enjoy doing for yourself and make a list. Figure out which of these things can fit into your current season of life. Then, commit to doing one of them regularly.

Personally, my favorite hobby is reading. Here are some of my favorite books from the past year.

23. Update Your Family Pictures and Photo Albums

Family pictures are a great way to capture memories and keep them for years to come. If it’s been a while since you’ve updated your family photos, make it a priority this year.

Take Action: Schedule a family photo session with a professional photographer. Or, if you’re feeling brave, gather everyone together and take some pictures on your own. Once you have your new photos, actually print them out. Add them to your existing scrapbook, create a new photo album book, and update some of the outdated pictures around your house.

I create a family yearbook through Shutterfly every year with all our favorite memories. These are some of my most treasured items.

Making New Year’s resolutions is a great way to start the year off on the right foot. But, it’s essential to make sure they’re realistic.

Pick a few or try them all. It’s completely up to you. Forget what you think you SHOULD do and instead focus on what you WANT to do. What will make you a better mom?

By following these tips, you can set yourself up for success. With these New Year’s resolutions for moms, you’ll be a better person and mom and you’ll be well on your way to a happy and healthy new year!

Grab your free 30-day decluttering checklist in my FREEBIE library by signing up for my email list!

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