From The Pumpkin Patch

I started the new year feeling burnt out and exhausted, and I suspect I’m not the only one.

If you’re a regular reader, you may have noticed that it’s been a little quiet over here as of late. I didn’t even have the energy to write my usual end-of-year post, where I reflect on the previous twelve months and celebrate my successes.

In short, I spent far too much time working during 2021 instead of focusing on my physical and mental health. Although I did have some successes in my personal life (psst – I got married!) a large chunk of my year was spent sitting at my desk, typing away at my laptop.

Although I was making money, I was also overworked and miserable. And you know what? I refuse to spend another year feeling that way.

In 2022, I want to focus more on the things that make me truly happy. I want to visit new places, cook delicious meals, read books, write blog posts and spend time with my husband.

I can’t do these things without closing my laptop once in a while, so in 2022 I’m going to make a concerted effort to take on less work and start living life again.

We’re almost at the end of January already, and I’m pleased to report that I’ve been taking much better care of my mind and body.

As a result, I’m starting to feel like my old self again. I even had the energy to write this blog post after completing a workout, which must be a good sign!

Although it’s late, I decided to continue the tradition of listing my goals for the upcoming year here on my website. I’m keeping them clear and defined, taking care not to overload myself with too many ambitious plans.

Here’s to a year of balance, adventure and achievements!

Goals

Buy a house

We planned to work on this goal last year, but between running a business and planning a wedding we simply didn’t have the time or the energy to spare!

Now that we are officially married, we can finally start the process of buying a home. I can’t wait to make our dreams a reality!

Save more money

While our combined and business accounts are very healthy, my personal savings accounts are looking a little depleted this year after getting married in November.

I plan to take baby steps in order to grow my finances back up to a level that I feel happy with, making sure not to stress or overwork myself in the process.

Prioritise my physical and mental health

It’s recently become clear to me that I’ve been focusing far too much on work and business, neglecting my physical and mental health in the process.

This year, it’s time to put my health first. I’ll be focusing on reducing stress, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and much more – keep an eye out for a blog post dedicated to these changes coming soon!

Visit America

I’ve always wanted to visit the States, but have never prioritised it when planning a holiday. Now that I have a new American friend, this is about to change!

As a New Year’s gift to ourselves my husband and I booked our flights to America for a trip in March, and I couldn’t be more excited. We’ll be visiting our friend, attending a basketball game or two and hiking in the beautiful state of Utah. I can’t wait to travel again!

Visit Japan

This is more of a hopeful wish than a New Year’s resolution, as the ability to travel to Japan is completely out of my control.

It’s been over two years since I was able to visit my favourite place in the world, and we’re hoping that the borders will be open in time for us to celebrate our first wedding anniversary in Japan during November. Please keep your fingers crossed for us!

Write a children’s book

I’ve wanted to be a published author for as long as I can remember. My blog has filled that gap for a few years now, but recently I’ve been wanting something more.

A few months ago I was hit with an idea for a children’s book that I fell completely in love with, and I knew I had to turn it into a reality. I’m so excited to have a concrete plan that feels really special, and will likely be spending a large chunk of the year working on my manuscript.

I have a really good feeling about the upcoming year. And why wouldn’t I? I’m freshly married, beginning the process of buying my first house and have a trip to a new country on the horizon.

Things are looking up. Let’s do this, 2022!