NEW year, new you?

Do you make resolutions or are you one of the ones who don’t bother? Do you not bother because you can’t stick to it or because you set unrealistic goals for yourself to achieve?

I don’t make resolutions, I see the new year as an opportunity to grow and improve, as is everyday. The reason why I reflect so much is because so much has happened in my life and so much happens in the year.

I look back on the growth that has been had and a way to further that improvement. I find myself wondering what the year will bring for the boys, what they will enjoy and be into. Then I get to planning the year ahead.

My husband and I sit down every year and have a meeting about what we want the year ahead to look like and what changes we need to make, if any. This year it has been more about holidays and experiences.

We dialled down on the gifts at Christmas and did more things. It was beautiful and so we are doing more of that. As for me, I'm going into 2024 working on my crafts a lot more. Refining my skills.

I want to publish my book and wrote a second. I’ve thought of a series to write also. I’ll start a blog, be more consistent with my social media as my YouTube grew nicely over the holidays. Launch my business so that next year I start getting paid to decorate!

I want to read more, I love reading and I’ve wanted to read the Guardians 100 best novels of all time in order. Some I have read but many moons ago. Some I know I don’t like but I will chance it again.

Keep learning a different language. Keep studying English and History, I really enjoy that. Also, grow skills as a baker and cook, and learn something different.

I want to train this year and get faster and stronger so that in 2025 I can enter competitions. I’ve said before that I can’t expect greatness from my children if I do not give it myself and so, I will be singing and performing this year also.

My eldest has started stage school and overcame his nerves and anxiety, he has inspired me. He loves it so so much and I’m so proud. I’m looking forward to the whole year. 

I forgot one other thing. I’m practicing walking in stilettos again. I miss them and I miss my crazy shoes. By the end of the year I plan to treat myself. 

I will say this though. Whatever you decide to do, plan, dream or aspire. Chase it. If you ‘fail’ then you learn and grow.

Go after it however big or small it may be. Writing for a newspaper was one of mine and here we are. Put yourself out there and ask the questions because you never know what’s available and who is looking for you.

Make it a year of progress. Let’s do it together and aim to be the best versions of ourselves. 

Jolene Wilson, Weston Mum.