Happy New Year, fabulous friends! It’s that time of year again when we reflect on our lives and—let’s be honest—take a peek at the small mountain of cookies and leftovers we’ve probably devoured over the holidays. And with the fresh calendar in front of us, we feel that insatiable urge to set some resolutions that are often more ambitious than a cat trying to swim. So, I’ve decided to take a more human approach this year and craft a list of resolutions that are achievable, relatable, and definitely sprinkled with humor. Here goes nothing!

First Resolution: Become a Morning Person (Kind of)

This year, I’m vowing to embrace the morning! With the sunrise, birds chirping, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee (which, let’s be honest, comes from the magical coffee shop down the street because I’m still figuring out my coffee machine), I want to feel energized and ready to seize the day! But, let’s keep it real: my idea of a “successful” morning includes hitting the snooze button a couple of times before realistically rolling out of bed, probably tripping over a shoe I left in the hallway. So, my version of a morning person? More like a person who attempts to be morning-friendly while still wearing pajamas at 10 a.m.

Second Resolution: Learn to Love (or Tolerate) Vegetables

Yes, I said it. This is the year that I’ll embrace the green side of life. You know, all those vegetables I used to avoid like the plague? It’s time to face my fears! But here’s the catch: I’m convinced that if I try using some ninja-like cooking skills (watch out, ‘Chopped’ contestants!) and tossing them into a delicious stir-fry drenched in soy sauce, I might actually enjoy some of them. I mean, if frosting makes broccoli taste better, I might be onto something, right? So, let’s go for vibrant colors on my plate—because I hear that’s what all the cool kids are doing.

Third Resolution: Become a Master at Saying “No”

Reality check: I have a tendency to overcommit and end up with my schedule jam-packed tighter than my favorite pair of jeans after the holidays. So, this year, I’m determined to learn the fine art of saying “no.” This doesn’t mean I’m going to suddenly become a hermit who hoards snacks on the couch (although that is also extremely tempting). Instead, I’m going to be more selective with my time. So if my friend invites me to a fancy soirée where I’d have to wear heels, I’ll just smile and let them know that I have a hot date. With my sofa. In fuzzy slippers.

Fourth Resolution: Take Up a New Hobby (Preferably One I’ve Never Tried Before)

Ah, hobbies—the delightful things we take up with wild enthusiasm and quickly abandon after realizing they require actual skill or commitment. This year, I’m ready to try something new, whether it’s painting, salsa dancing, or origami. Spoiler alert: I’m not exactly the most graceful human being, so the salsa dancing may quickly devolve into what can only be described as a blend of flailing and questionable rhythm. But hey, I’ll give it my best shot—if anything, I’ll get a great story out of it! And who knows? Maybe I’ll end up surprising myself and becoming an accidental paper crane prodigy.

Fifth Resolution: Cultivate Mindfulness (Or at Least Attempt It Amid the Chaos)

2024 is the year I’m choosing to be more mindful. You know, grounding myself in the present moment and practicing deep breathing instead of letting life’s little stressors send me into a full-on spiral. I can already hear my Zen teacher whispering, “Breathe, Tina, breathe.” I’ll definitely try to channel my inner yoga instructor, but let me tell you, it’s easy to lose that focus when I suddenly remember I have an old episode of my favorite show queued up! So, my approach may be more like “mindfulness with a splash of Netflix” than Zen tranquility, but at least I’m trying!

Sixth Resolution: Get Outside More (and Avoid That Netflix Trap)

As winter melts into spring, I realize I’ve been hibernating like a bear, only to emerge when I hear the doorbell or the pizza delivery guy calls my name. This year, I vow to explore the great outdoors—preferably without my sweatpants and Netflix in the background. Whether it’s going for walks, hiking, or even pretending I know how to ride a bike, I want to soak up some sunshine and fresh air. And of course, I will pack snacks because—let’s be honest—snacks should always accompany any adventure.

Seventh Resolution: Commit to Random Acts of Kindness

I’ve always been a firm believer in spreading positivity, so this year, I want to intentionally incorporate random acts of kindness into my daily life. This could be anything from complimenting a stranger or helping someone carry groceries to sharing cookies with my neighbors (that last one is a win-win, especially for my baking skills). Picture me handing out cookies while wearing a giant smile and a superhero cape—because who wouldn’t want to be known as the ‘Cookie Crusader’ in the neighborhood?

Eighth Resolution: Laugh More

Finally, I resolve to laugh more this year. Laughter really is the best medicine, and it’s the perfect antidote to all those “serious” adulting moments. So, I’m going to watch more stand-up comedy, spend time with hilarious friends, and allow myself to find the joy in the mundane. After all, if I can giggle over slipping on my own socks or getting my hair stuck in the zipper of my coat, then I’m definitely winning at life.

Conclusion: The Quirky Journey Awaits

And there you have it—my resolutions for 2024! As the year unfolds, I know I’ll stumble, trip over my ambitions, and probably have to navigate a few detours (especially when it involves the vegetable fiasco). But the beauty lies in the journey, laughter, and lessons learned along the way! So here’s to all of us: may we embrace our quirks, mess up a little, and make this year our own unique adventure!

Cheers to a fantastic 2024 filled with laughter, growth, and a dash of chaos. Until next time, lovely humans!

Much love,
Tina