How I Plan to Embrace Growth, Balance and Increased Joy in 2026

I have been thinking about what I want in the new year. I want more than my usual goals of losing weight, lowering my cholesterol, and achieving professional goals.

I want this year to be different because I need goals that align with my aspirations for a healthier, happier, and more balanced life. To accomplish this, I have set the following goals to achieve the best version of myself in 2026.

Prioritize Mental Health: Self-care will be a non-negotiable part of my routine. Whether it’s daily meditation, journaling, or seeking professional support, prioritizing my mental well-being will help me build more resilience and experience more clarity.

Cultivate Healthier Habits: I will continue to work on my cholesterol and lose weight, but this will be part of my overall health goals, which include eating more whole foods, staying hydrated, and being more active regularly.

I will embrace the power of consistency over perfection—small, sustainable changes lead to long-term success—because I tend to believe that change has to happen quickly. When I don’t see changes quickly, I get discouraged and lose my zeal.

So my goal is to take baby steps and learn how to accept the importance of taking things one step at a time.

Learn Something New: I have been putting off learning a new language, and this year, I’m making a change. Next year, I will commit to learning at least the basics of a new language. I’m leaning toward Spanish or French because I love both languages. Next year, Char might have the beginnings of a new bilingual life.

Strengthen Relationships: Make a conscious effort to nurture the relationships that matter most. Prioritize quality time with family and friends, be present, and express gratitude. I have been neglecting these connections due to resentment and struggles with forgiveness, but I know that I need these relationships for a more fulfilling life.

Financial Freedom: Set financial goals for 2026 AND stick to them. I plan to investigate and choose a new side hustle to pay off debt.

Actively working towards my debt goal will make me feel more empowered, rather than being victimized by the ridiculous interest rates being charged. Knowing that I am taking steps toward better financial stability will allow me to practice patience as I manage my debt.

Practice Gratitude Every Day: Start a daily gratitude practice to stay focused on the positive aspects of life. Noticing the little things—like a warm cup of tea, a sunny day, or a kind gesture— will help me cultivate a more positive outlook that will transform my entire year.

I struggle with gratitude because I tend to focus on all that needs fixing and overlook the many things that are already going right. This year I am committed to more gratitude in my life.

Travel More: I want to take more weekend trips in 2026 instead of staying home every weekend to recharge and rest. There are other ways to recharge, such as taking a short nap on Saturday and waking up feeling like I could have spent that time connecting with nature, visiting a museum, or going on a weekend camping trip.

Embrace Positivity and Joy: I am committed to surrounding myself with more positivity and seeking joy in everyday moments. Whether it’s through hobbies, laughter brought on by my hilarious husband, or doing what I love, such as cooking for others, entertaining, and finally completing my Bachelor’s Degree, joy will become the vital ingredient I work towards in 2026 to live a fulfilled life.

I will also remember that goals serve as a guide to positive changes, not a strict roadmap for change. Life is dynamic, and it’s okay to adjust my goals and learn to be flexible throughout the year.

Here’s to making 2026 a powerful year of growth, joy, and balance.

Let’s embrace it together! 🌟

What are your top goals for 2026? Let me know in the comments below!