Still Not Making Resolutions + a Cranberry-Orange Dutch Baby

Happy Monday and Happy New Year!  If you’re here for the Cranberry-Orange Dutch Baby recipe, that’s bonus content for paid subscribers.  Scroll to the bottom!

As we step into another new year, I find myself reflecting once more on the reasons why I choose not to make a long list of New Year's resolutions. It's not that I don't believe in self-improvement or the value of setting goals; rather, I've realized that the traditional narrative around resolutions often leads to unnecessary self-criticism and unrealistic expectations. Last year, I shared my thoughts on this topic, and my perspective remains unchanged.

With each passing year, life seems to grow more complex, faster-paced, and filled with new challenges. Amidst this whirlwind, I have made a conscious decision to be kinder to myself. January 1st, in particular, tends to be a time when many of us engage in harsh self-judgment. We critique ourselves for not being thin enough, organized enough, attractive enough, or for not being a better parent or spouse. We compare ourselves to the curated, often unrealistic portrayals we see on social media. This mindset is damaging, and I refuse to subscribe to it.

Moreover, I reject the unhealthy binge-deprivation cycle that often accompanies the holiday season. The idea of indulging excessively, only to "cleanse" and deprive ourselves afterward, is not conducive to a balanced and healthy relationship with food. Personally, I enjoy my meals on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and then I return to my normal eating habits the following day. This approach feels more sustainable and less punishing.

Instead of setting rigid resolutions, I prefer to take a moment for simple reflection on the past year. I ask myself two questions: What was good and worked well? What wasn't good and didn't work? This straightforward evaluation allows me to make adjustments without the pressure of adhering to strict resolutions.

For those who do wish to set resolutions or intentions, my advice is to write them down. There's power in putting your goals on paper. My personal mantra continues to be, "make it easy to do what you want to do." Identifying what you want to do more of and finding ways to simplify the process can make a significant difference.

For me, this often involves establishing systems and routines. Whether it's setting up a dedicated workspace, creating a meal plan, or scheduling regular exercise, these structures help me stay on track. It's up to each individual to determine what systems will best support her goals.

I will continue to eat more plants, focus on my protein goals (I do eat lean animal protein, high-quality dairy, eggs and I like MindBodyGreen protein powder,) drink a liter of water every day with the help of a good water bottle, minimize alcohol consumption but still loving mocktails, lift weights and walk with a weighted vest, and take the supplements that work for me.

Spicy Grapefruit Mocktail

This year, I will also focus on relationships - spending time with people who bring out the best in me and enhance my life and minimizing time with people who don’t. I will also focus on editing our possessions.  Just because we have the room for stuff, doesn’t mean we need the stuff.  My in-laws are moving out of a house they have lived in for over 30 years and Hubs and I have made a mental note that we should start editing our house now LOL!

In conclusion, whether you choose to make resolutions or not, remember to be gentle with yourself. Life is a journey, and every step forward is progress. Let's focus on what truly matters and make it easier for ourselves to succeed.

Even More Musings is an extension of my weekly newsletter, Monday Musings. My newsletter is a sponsor-free zone and is fully supported by readers like you. Consider becoming a paid subscriber to get Even More Musings! Each week, I share my tips and tricks along with a new recipe. For only $5/month or $50/year (less than $1 a newsletter), you'll also gain access to the entire archive, featuring favorites like My New Hyper-fixation High-Protein Fluffy Breakfast Bowl  and the Hillstone Copycat Emerald Kale Salad.  This week I am sharing a recipe for a Cranberry-Orange Dutch Baby using the last of the cranberries that have been lingering since Thanksgiving!