Tag: goals

Stay Motivated: Journal Prompts to Keep Your New Year Goals on Track

The New Year often starts with a burst of motivation and optimism. Resolutions are made, goals are set, and we feel ready to take on the world. But as the weeks roll by, staying focused can be challenging. Journaling is a powerful tool to reignite your drive and remind yourself why you started. Here are some unique and detailed prompts designed to inspire you, reflect on your journey, and keep you on track with your resolutions.

cozy coffee and gratitude journal on marble

Journal Prompts to Stay Motivated

1. The “Why” Behind Your Goals

  • Why did I choose this goal? What deeper purpose does it serve in my life?
  • How will my life look, feel, and change once I achieve it?
  • Write a letter to your future self celebrating your success. What will you thank yourself for?

2. Visualize Success

  • If I could describe a day in my life after reaching this goal, what would it look like? What would I hear, see, and feel?
  • Create a list of five “wins” I can achieve on the way to my bigger goal. How will I reward myself for each milestone?

3. Overcoming Challenges

  • What obstacles have I faced so far, and how did I handle them?
  • Write about a time in the past when I overcame a tough challenge. What skills or traits helped me, and how can I apply them now?
  • If I stumble, how can I show myself kindness while getting back on track?

4. Embracing Growth

  • What new skills or habits have I developed since starting this journey?
  • Write about a recent moment when I surprised myself with progress. What does this tell me about my potential?
  • How has pursuing this goal helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect?

5. Focusing on Gratitude

  • What am I grateful for today that supports my journey (e.g., resources, people, opportunities)?
  • Write about a person who inspires me and how their example motivates me.
  • List three things I’ve achieved so far, big or small, that I can be proud of.

6. Reassessing and Adjusting

  • Is my goal still aligned with my values and priorities? If not, how can I adjust it?
  • What small tweaks can I make to my daily routine to keep things exciting and sustainable?
  • Write about what “progress” looks like to me. How can I redefine success if needed?

7. Finding Joy in the Process

8. Looking Ahead

  • Imagine myself one year from now, looking back at this journey. What advice would my future self give me today?
  • What lessons am I learning now that I can carry into other areas of my life?
  • How can I stay committed to my goals even after the initial excitement fades?

Tips for Using These Prompts

  1. Be Honest: Journaling is your safe space. Write openly and authentically without judgment.
  2. Set a Routine: Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily or weekly to reflect and write.
  3. Revisit Your Entries: Look back on your journal to track growth and reignite your motivation.
  4. Pair With Action: Use insights from your writing to tweak habits, create new strategies, or shift your mindset.

Your New Year goals and resolutions are more than a checklist—they’re a journey of growth and self-discovery. Journaling can help you stay connected to your “why,” celebrate your progress, and navigate challenges with grace. Use these prompts to stay inspired, motivated, and focused as you turn your dreams into reality.

Remember: the key is not perfection but persistence. Keep going—you’ve got this! 🌟

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

New Year, Same Amazing You: Self-Care Tips That Actually Work

Happy New Year! Or as I like to say, Happy Another Year to Embrace Your Awesomeness! Now, let me start by saying this: I do not believe in New Year’s resolutions. Nope. Not one bit. Why? Because there’s no such thing as a “new you.” You don’t need a complete overhaul to step into the new year. You are already amazing, and this is your chance to enhance the greatness that’s already there.

happy new year greeting card with glitters

When we talk about “the new me,” it subconsciously suggests that who we are right now isn’t good enough—that we need to ditch everything about ourselves and reinvent. But here’s the reality: most resolutions don’t even make it past January 15. Why? Because we’re setting ourselves up to think we need to become someone else instead of simply activating the superpowers we already have.

So, instead of another year of failed resolutions, let’s focus on self-care tips that actually work—practical, meaningful ways to make 2025 your best year yet. And don’t worry, this won’t be another over-complicated list. We’re keeping it simple, fun, and pun-tastic because who says self-care can’t be a little festive.

1. Log Off and Tune Into Yourself
First things first: log off. Like, right now. Okay, maybe after you finish reading this blog post. Seriously though, it’s time to limit screen time. Our phones, social media, and streaming services are turning us into a giant copy-paste society. Everyone’s dressing the same, talking the same, cooking the same viral TikTok pasta dish, and even aspiring to the same goals.

Let’s break free from the mold in 2024. Be unapologetically YOU. It’s okay to skip the trending lingo, the latest must-have fashion item, or the viral recipes. Rediscover what you like—your style, your hobbies, your quirks. Logging off gives you time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. And honestly, it’s a lot better for your wallet and your sanity.

2. Listen to Your Body (It’s Not Just Background Noise)
This year, let’s focus on health—proactively, not reactively. Your body is like that friend who leaves you subtle hints, but you’re too busy to notice. You know, the one who’s been whispering, “Hey, maybe it’s time for that check-up” or “Drink more water, please!”

Make those appointments, get that blood work done, and stop ignoring your body’s signals. It’s not just about looking good in your New Year’s Eve outfit; it’s about feeling good year-round. Your body is your home—take care of it so it can take care of you. MENTAL NOTE OF THE DAY: NEW YEAR EDITION

3. Focus on Experiences, Not Just Destinations
We all love a good vacation, but let’s be real: sometimes, we get so caught up in the “perfect destination” that we forget to enjoy the moments leading up to it—or even the trip itself. This year, let’s focus on creating memories and experiences that matter.

Whether it’s a road trip to a nearby town, a spontaneous picnic in the park, or a candlelit dinner at home, the magic lies in the moments, not the miles traveled. Snap the picture, but also put the phone down and soak it all in. Life is happening right now—don’t miss it trying to get the perfect shot for Instagram.

4. Keep It Simple (No Need to Overcomplicate)
Self-care doesn’t have to be an elaborate 12-step skincare routine or a weeklong silent retreat. Sometimes, it’s as simple as drinking more water, taking a walk, or setting a boundary (yes, “no” is a full sentence).

Simplify your goals this year. Want to get healthy? Start with one small habit—like swapping one soda a day for water. Want to declutter? Start with one drawer, not the whole house. When you keep things simple, they’re easier to stick to—and that’s how real change happens.

2025 isn’t about becoming a “new you.” It’s about embracing the real you—the one who’s perfectly imperfect, endlessly capable, and ready to shine. Take care of yourself, love yourself, and most importantly, be yourself.

Here’s to a year of logging off, listening to your body, creating meaningful experiences, and keeping it all simple. May your 2025 be as fabulous as you already are. Happy New Year 🎆🎊🎈

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SIDE HUSTLES BEFORE YOU BEGIN

If you’re looking to supplement your income most likely you’ve Googled or searched side hustles. If not, on every social media platform you are bombarded with people telling you how to make a $1000 a day. Side hustles have become vital avenues for those who are seeking financial independence, an additional stream of income, or to diversify their career. However, there are many things to know before starting immediately as most influencers will tell you.

text on white paper

As someone who started their own blog, has been an Upwork freelancer, Poshmark seller, and freelance writer for other publications I’ve learned many lessons along the way. FINDING BALANCE IN LIFE: CAN YOU REALLY HAVE IT?

  1. Do your research. Whether you’re selling items, blogging, freelancing, or pet sitting, you need to spend time researching. One of the best tricks I do is read reviews and comments that aren’t highly regarded. For example, I’ll watch a negative review about Poshmark before I watch or read 10 articles of someone gloating about it. Things such as your username, thumb nail pic, photo, when you list or post, how you market yourself, the day and time you publish and the list goes on and on is vital to your success.
  2. Know Your Legal Risks. In every side hustle, there are legal risks. For example, if you do affiliate marketing there are legal risks for photos used and how you share links. As wells as the proper way to disclose the advert. Another example is if you are a pet sitter, and someone gets hurt on your watch you could be responsible for medical bills. Or if you are a ride share driver and get into an accident you could be liable for damages.
  3. Side Hustles Are A Real Business. So often you hear people say my hobby turned into a business. That’s true. You have to be passionate about your side hustle. However, it’s a real business that requires a great deal of planning. Most people will tell you to start today. Well, what’s your business plan? What are your expenses? Who is the customer, client, or target audience? What problem are you solving? If these questions aren’t thought out and answered you’ll find yourself blowing with the wind, losing money and motivation.
  4. You have to be tech savvy. Especially starting off and not wanting to spend or outsource on technology . You have to be your own marketing guru, troubleshooting tech, creative director, and so forth. Also technology is your best friend as it will give you the tools needed to stay organized and free some time up. Using automation, calendars, and apps to help propel your business. For example, there is an automation for me to share my listings instead of doing them myself. Automation for social media marketing frees up so much time. Use your tech wisely.
  5. Time management is key. You’ll often hear people say work your 9-5 and then spend 5-9 working your side hustle. Well everyone can’t do that. Growing any side hustle takes time, effort, and patience. You’ll want to create a schedule that’s realistic for you and your lifestyle. Knowing over time it may have to adjust or change. Going head first and giving up everything can result into burn out and other areas in your life lacking. However, if you just wing it and pour sprinkles into it you’ll get out of it what you put in.
  6. Side Hustles can take you down a bumpy road. Once starting your business know that circumstances out of your control will affect you. Always be in learning mode. Willing to expand your business model. And never give up. There will be times you question everything. But remember your why.

Side hustles are a great way to diversify your income, add extra money to your savings, and help you fulfill your dreams of being a business owner. As you begin it’s important to stay focused, informed, and be adaptable. You can avoid some common pitfalls by understanding the intricacies of legal requirements, time management, demand, and the market. All it takes is one step at a time. Good luck!!!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

SMALL HABITS I’M FOCUSING ON FOR THE NEW YEAR

Again, I don’t believe in New Year’s resolutions. It’s a cycle of mental and emotional abuse. Large goals are set and within a couple of weeks a setback happens, and we forget what we set out to do. Each year, instead, I set small goals and habits I’d like to achieve.

person legs with motivational words on papers on white background

Last year my focus was self awareness . What I needed to do to remain emotionally focused and in control of my emotions. One of the most repeated quotes, scriptures, and advice that found me was to remain calm when you’re in the eye of the storm. That storm could be someone berating you, a tragic loss, unexpected circumstance, or anything that may cause a negative reaction. Next, I wanted to be intentional on how I communicated. One simple, but effective solution, was to be honest when someone asked me how I was doing. Often the response is “good and how you doing?” Answer the question honestly if they are asking. Also learning how to accept compliments, gifts, and appreciation without minimizing my own work. Just saying thank you is good enough. I would say I did well with those.

Small Habits I’m Focused On For This Year:

-Keeping my doctors and dentist appointments. Going to the dermatologist. If something doesn’t feel right make the appointment instead of waiting.

-Reading more. I have a ton of books purchased but haven’t read. I did well last year reducing my screen time. Now I need to be more intentional about picking up the book.

-Accept invitations. My husband and I are horrible about not accepting invitations. During the end of last year, we began to challenge ourselves and step outside the comfort zone and accept invites.

-Eating with more color. Unexpectedly I found myself on a vegan diet after I had some dental work done. I was trying to find tasteful, good, healthy, soft foods to eat while I healed. Thanks to Pinterest, I found many recipes to try. I noticed a difference in my hair, skin, energy, and body after that month. I’m going to keep it up through the year.

-Being more consistent with going to sleep. Many nights my kids want me to watch programs with them before bed. It’s great quality time and I’m happy they want to spend time with me, but mama needs sleep.

-Being consistent with my blog. I am very grateful for those who read my posts and follow. I still do love to inspire. I have pages of notes and articles. Staying motivated, balancing everyday life, and trying not to get burned out is my goals for this year. 3 SIMPLE SELF CARE TIPS THAT KEEPS ME SANE

-Being patient. No matter what it is or what’s happening I want to get better at practicing my patience.

-Provide a safe space for myself, family, and friends. I know what it feels like to need or want to talk things out. But having the safe space to do so often is the reason many people don’t reach out. Allowing others to vent, talk through their feelings, and feel heard is vital. It will help them, myself, and the relationships.

-Living intentional as my life transition. My son is graduating high school and I want to give him what he needs mentally and emotionally without hovering over him.

-Be good to myself. Towards the end of last year, I began to accept what was. When my hair didn’t turnout how I anticipated, I still said it was good. When my skin reacts I compliment how good it looks in the midst. My goal is to do more of telling myself good things.

-Saying “I love you”, instead of “Love you”. Seems miniature. But if I feel it when I say “I love you” instead of love you, it means more to the recipient.

Those are my intentions for the year. Will I have peaks and valleys? Yes. But that’s life. I’m going to give myself permission to take a break, pick back up where I left off, and adjust as needed. What are some of your intentions?

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

DON’T GIVE UP: RESET AND KEEP GOING

We are a week into February and some may be feeling a little down on themselves. You made all these new years resolutions and they haven’t turned out exactly how you thought. Don’t give up, reset and keep going. KEEP GOING AND PUSH YOURSELF

I know there are many folks out there who set goals on January 1. Unfortunately, circumstances didn’t allow you to stay on track. For some reason finances got in the way of your goals. One slip up of getting off the diet and now you back to eating whatever you want. The weather prevented you from getting to the gym for a couple of days and now you feel like what’s the point of even going back.

Well all of those may be true. But you have the power to reset, adjust, and recharge. Don’t give up on your goals because life happen. Life is going to happen. You have to make a decision and choice to not let life get in your way. Don’t give up, reset and recharge to give yourself a chance.

Make the money saving goal a little smaller until you can save what you initially set out. Instead of setting a 20lb weight loss goal, reset it to 10lbs until you get back in gear. Ok, so what you ate that burger and fries, make it a point to play in the garden to get your eating habits back on track.

No matter what your resolution goals were, or how far you fell off. You can get back on track. Don’t give up on your goals. You can do this. We all fall off the wagon. That is being human. But what’s even more courageous, is not staying down.

Reset this month. Get your journal out and purge all your thoughts. Purge that guilt of eating fast food. Purge that shame of making excuses for not exercising. You spent the money, it’s not coming back, so free yourself of regret.

Next, go to the grocery store and get what you need to eat this week to stay on your good eating habits. Set your workout clothes out at night. Make a budget for you this week or do a little money challenge. Challenge yourself and do a no spend challenge this week.

Remember you can do it. Whatever that it is. Don’t give up. Reset and recharge.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

FRIENDLY REMINDERS I TELL MYSELF

It’s only Wednesday and I’ve had my fair share of the emotional roll coaster. My everyday corporate job has sent me for a ride each day already, and there are some friendly reminders I tell myself when I’m emotionally spent. I thought I’d share some of my friendly reminders just in case you need to pull them out one day to use.

But first, let me give you a quick background. The owner of my establishment is known in the community very well, as well as the family, they’ve been pillars in the community for several generations now. However, the business is important but keeping a good image tends to take precedence due to said individual holding local political office.

Now that we have that out the way. Several times I have been placed in compromising positions to either do what is right or basically bend the rules to ensure said person stays in good standing with certain community members. It’s an ever changing goal post. Also the rules, parameters, and guidelines seem to shift depending on the “who”.

With that being said, there are others in the office that is willing to jeopardize and risk losing their credentials because it’s the boss. Which, of course puts me in a very uncomfortable and compromising position. Because of that, I learned early on to keep it strictly professional. I set my boundaries and don’t bend for an inch.

This is where my friendly reminders that I tell myself when in emotional despair come into play. First I remind myself that I am an asset and have something to offer. Due to my position, I continue to work hard and exceed expectations. I know I am a great and hard worker. I know I’m good at my job and is essential to the business running.

Disclaimer: It took me a while to say the above without feeling like I was tooting my horn. There isn’t anything wrong with you knowing your worth or value. After all, I worked hard to get where I am and I value the work I do. You can say it with confidence and humility.

My next friendly reminder, is to know my license and credentials I studied and worked hard for is mine. I consistently take continueing education courses to ensure I’m as qualified as possible. I will not and can not let anyone take that away from me. People have put their trust in me, and that is something I must honor.

Thirdly, my friendly reminder I tell myself when in emotional despair is their political ambitions has nothing to do with me and isn’t my business. What someone else’s goals and desires are, is for them. It’s not even for me to understand. With that, I can encourage and support you going after your dreams without compromising myself.

After telling myself what they do isn’t my business, I knew I had to make my boundaries clear. Having a conversation and making it clear that I have no desire to integrate myself in personal affairs was essential. Also making it clear that my license and credentials are important to me. Reminding one that I was brought on to do certain duties, fulfill a role, and be professional.It’s my duty to ensure the integrity of it and that is what I intend to do, always.

Finally, I stick to my duties and not venture off. I’ve learned in certain situations when you begin to venture off and do things out of kindness or because you want to be a team player, it isn’t appreciated as such. Soon others begin to think you’re obligated or they begin to take advantage.

These are some very simple, but yet needed friendly reminders I tell myself that we all can use some time or another. What I know is, even in a professional setting it is important to create boundaries. Also, as we do in our private lives, ensuring we take care of our mental and emotional wellbeing in the office. This is an essential so we don’t bring it home to our families. What happens at work should stay at work. Lastly, don’t second guess yourself or settle because you feel like you have to take whatever is thrown at you. Yes, that is your job and that’s how you take care of your family, but you can respectfully stand up for yourself.

Welp, thats all for my midweek ramble. I’m feeling lighter and better. If you have any friendly reminders or suggestions please feel free to let me know. Have a great rest of your week!!!!!

Until next time…..

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Create Plans, Systems, and Habits For The New Year

It’s that time of year where people are talking about their new year’s resolutions. Instead of resolutions create plans, systems, and habits for the new year. I’ve never like this idea or really been able to answer the question “what’s your New Years resolution?”

Instead of a New Years resolution I think its more important and/or effective to create a lifestyle with systems and daily habits. Have a plan for your life in year. Break that plan down into half year goals, seasonal or quarterly goals, and then monthly goals. If needed you can even break it down into weekly goals until it has become habit. Setting goals, making plans, and listing somethings you’d like to accomplish in a year is more realistic and obtainable.

So often when we set resolutions they barely last a month or even a week sometimes. That’s because it hasn’t been thoroughly thought out, made with intention, and done at the spare of the moment.

Before creating a system or change you must ask yourself what is my end goal here? How long will it take me to reach my end game? What do I need in the process? If I have to make a detour what is my course of action to get back on track? What do I need to put into place to begin? What are the steps of this goal?

To make anything sustainable we have to be patient, persistent, and consistent. Yes there will be road blocks but we will overcome them. The systems set by our daily habits will allow us to get back into to gear when something happens. Life is going to continue but its how we push through that makes us strong.When we push through obstacles that gives us the confidence and motivation to continue on with our goals. Now we won’t give up or lose sight on what we sought out to achieve.

When you have an outline of your goal you’re able to track progress. You can adjust the goal if necessary. Increase or decrease your course of action, add or delete some steps in the process, and have a visual.

For example, if you have a weight loss goal, make a plan to lose 5lbs in the first month or two. Because you have a goal you know you have to eat a balanced diet and exercise to achieve that goal. Look at your work week, schedule of things to do with the kids or family in the week, and figure when it will be best to work out for at least 30 minutes 4 times a week. Anyone can say “I want to get fit” but what does that mean without a plan and goals behind it.

Along with setting goals and creating an action plan, having a system in place will assist you in achieving the goals you want. Having systems in place with daily habits that are pushing you toward your goal allows you to remain present in the moment. The systems of daily habits become the lifestyle change you are striving for. You can’t have one without the other. Create plans, systems, and habits to set you up for success this year.

Back to the weight loss example, you will need a system of when and how often I need to go to the grocery store to ensure I have what I need before, during, and after workout. Along with what will my daily meals and snacks look like. Waking up to making sure you don’t skip breakfast is a great daily habit to begin with. What am I going to have for lunch, what is my snack for the day, or what is the plan for dinner.

No matter what it is, you want to accomplish, create a plan for it. Vacation, remodeling the home, purchasing a new car, or whatever make an intentional plan. I know it may seem like a lot or it can be overwhelming in the beginning but once it becomes habit and who you are it won’t phase you one bit. Living the life you envisioned, deserve, and sought for is the best reward.

We have to make it a lifestyle and part of who we are. It has to be about us, for us, and by us otherwise it’s just empty words of hopes of what we’d like to do and accomplish.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Happy New Year!!!!!🎆🎊🎈

WE MADE IT EVERYBODY!!!!!! You really should give yourself a pat on the back. And you thought you weren’t going to make it this year. My friend you are a survivor and you really should be proud of yourself.

Please know you are already equipped with everything you need to begin this new year of 2021. Make yourself a priority, stay positive, and enjoy what’s waiting for you on the other side of 2020.

I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year!!!! Stay safe, stay warm, and be well my friends. See you next year.

Happy New Year

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Do You Have A Vision For Your Life

When we go on vacation, its planned out from the time we leave til the time we return. It starts off as conversations with spouses, family, and friends trying to choose a destination. Next we find a hotel, resort, or house to rent for the stay and book it. Reservations and deposits are put down. Flights are booked. Overtime we begin making payments, saving money, and of course putting in vacation time at work. As the vacation time nears we go on a diet, plan daily outfits, make sure we have those bikinis loaded, mani, pedis, hair done, tanned, and by this time mentally we are already on vacay.

But do we have that same vision for our life?

Well guess what, we can plan our life the same way. So often we have dreams, aspirations, goals, and visions for ourselves that seem so far fetched that we think they are unattainable. Self Care IS SETTING PERSONAL GOALS Whatever you envision for your life you can achieve. Just like that vacation that costs thousands of dollars that you have to plan for in advance. We can create a plan for our life and future.

What do you want? Where do you see yourself living? Where do you see yourself working? What business you want to start? Where do you want to raise your family? Those are visions that we have for ourselves. Because our visions may seem so out of reach we push the back. But what God places in us never goes away. If your dreams or vision scares you, then you ought to go chase them.

Begin planning your life vision with what you already have. With each small step towards our goal, it gets us closer. Just like you have a picture in mind of what you want your outfit to look like, you have that same picture of your life. Piece by piece put that photo together. As we do when we plan a vacation, we have to prepare for the “what if’s “. All that means is we have to be prepared for a flight with a stop and layover, then we can keep going .

Your’re tougher, stronger, wiser, and more courageous than you think!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.