My New Year’s Resolutions for 2019

There are probably a million different ways to start writing your New Year’s resolutions. Mine began as I was searching for a new show on Netflix. I stumbled upon Tidying up with Marie Kondo and took it as a sign that it was time to start working on them.

First, I took a look back on my goals for last year. I didn’t do too awful bad. I wrote most of this at 9:24 PM last night, so I haven’t quite nailed the writing in the mornings part, but I’ve started reading more and have gotten to grow Magnolia Stripes a lot since I sat down and wrote those goals (including expanding into the world of video)!

This year, I’m tackling my goals in two groups: themes and goals.

My 2019 themes:

  • Make health and wellness a priority. This one is a repeat of last year because it’s so important and I’m not the best at doing it. I’ll almost always prioritize getting a post up or clearing my inbox over even a 20-minute workout. Keeping my gym bag at the ready is going to make this much easier.
  • Invest in my wardrobe. I’m now in my thirties, so it’s time to focus more on quality over quantity. I love fun finds every now and then, but I’m getting pickier with what makes it into my closet. That’s prime real estate, guys! I’m working on stocking up on good quality basics, such as a good trench coat or pencil skirts, and making sure that they’re tailored.
  • Create a budget and stick to it. I’m a good shopper, but I’m not always the best at sticking to a budget, so this year I’m making it a resolution.
  • Grow and improve Magnolia Stripes. This is one I’m the most excited about and I wouldn’t be able to do any of it if it wasn’t for YOU. I love sharing bits of my life in this space and I’m so happy to have the community we have together. Last year, Magnolia Stripes expanded into video, which was something I found that I absolutely love. I’m going to work on doing more videos and improving my photography – maybe take a class or two as well. I’m excited for all that 2019 holds for Magnolia Stripes. It’s going to be great!

My 2019 goals:

  1. Read one book a month.
  2. Refresh my French before our trip in the spring.
  3. Take a skill-related class, such as photography, search engine optimization, and editing.
  4. Find the perfect trench coat.
  5. Upgrade my work/everyday tote.
  6. Invest in a pair of nude pumps that I adore.
  7. Find basic flats in navy, nude, and black.
  8. Finish at least six needlepoint projects.
  9. Change out the bedding in our master bedroom.
  10. Have our first two floors painted.
  11. Paint all interior trims and crown moldings.
  12. Add crown molding to our master bedroom and other rooms upstairs.
  13. Put in window treatments on our main level.
  14. Finish our second bedroom (aka the current drop zone).
  15. Play more tennis.
  16. Get serious about learning to play golf.
  17. Go on walks after dinner with Hubby.
  18. Hang a wreath in every window next Christmas.
  19. Take photos for our Christmas cards earlier in the year and order our cards by early fall.
  20. Become a morning person.
  21. Establish a routine in the morning and before bed.
  22. No screen time before bed.
  23. Post on Magnolia Stripes 3-4 times a week.
  24. Master the art of batching my work load.
  25. Shoot more video.
  26. Improve photography.
  27. Draw up and follow meal plans every week.
  28. Take another cooking class.
  29. Work out at least 3-4 times a week.
  30. Take daily breaks at the office to walk around and get in some steps.
  31. Show up to work early.
  32. Travel overseas.
  33. Visit some of my favorite places with friends.
  34. Take more time to relax.
  35. Get serious about scheduling routine facials.
  36. Move our fig tree to a larger pot.
  37. Find a coffee table and nightstand that I’m in love with.
  38. Start each day with what I’m thankful for.
  39. Block in time on my calendar for devotionals.
  40. Keep on top of incoming papers so the house stays clutter-free.

What are your top resolutions for the new year?