Happy February, everyone! We’ve made it through the first month of 2018, and I thought now would be a good time for me to do a resolutions check in. I haven’t made that many resolutions, because I don’t like to lie to myself, but there are a few things I’m trying to be better at. I think that checking in occasionally will help realign my plan and motivate me to keep going. So let’s talk about what I’ve been up to!
1. Blog more
Since I’ve moved to D.C. and started my new job/career, I’ve been in this weird transition phase. I was trying to adjust to this new life, so I hadn’t been blogging as much as I would like to. However, I’ve been gearing back up in the past few weeks! Prioritizing blog time and sitting down to plan are things I’ve been focusing on, and I think it’s made a difference. If you haven’t read my latest posts, check out my Pixi x Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse Review, my D.C. Winter Essentials, and my Chloe Susanna Boot Dupe posts!
2. Work toward a healthier lifestyle
I’m turning the big 3-0 this year, and I think the time to get healthy is now or never. I read all these articles and health studies that say that exercise reduces the risk of SO many diseases, many of which I’m genetically disposed to have. Doctors and health professionals have been telling us this for literally decades, and I’ve just been plugging my ears and digging into my Trader Joe’s mac and cheese… but no more! I’m trying to be more mindful of what I’m eating, as well as exercise more. What I’ve been doing the past two weeks is this Buzzfeed workout. Surprisingly, I’ve been enjoying it! It only takes about 30 minutes a few times a week, and you don’t need any fancy machines for it.
3. Read more
I say this every year, but I’m doing well so far! I’m trying to read at least one book a month. January’s book was Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward and I highly recommend it! It’s a bit of magical realism, plus a ton of emotion, all told through a beautiful lens. Next on my list is to finish The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson, and I’ve got a few more on the list lined up. What books would you recommend?
4. Save money
I knew that D.C. would be more expensive than Huntsville, but I don’t know if I realized HOW much more expensive. I was sort of pressed for time when I was looking for an apartment, so I ended up picking a place with a rent payment MUCH higher than I can afford, which has taken a toll on my bank account. I’m trying to be more mindful of my spending, and I’ve found two things that really help. First is this meal planner from Knock Knock. I found that I cook more and eat out less when I’ve planned out my meals, which saves me money. I also have been loving the Daily Budget app. After putting in your monthly recurring charges like rent, bills, and groceries, this app shows you how much money you have left to spend per day. You have to manually log every purchase you make to keep up with it, but it has been life changing. The first week, I WAY overspent, and it’s surprising how often little unexpected, but necessary, purchases come up.
So, things are looking up! Of course, it’s only February, but I’m optimistic that I can keep up with my goals. What are your resolutions, and how are you doing with them?
