2026 New Years Resolutions

As the new year begins, it’s natural to reflect on the year we’ve just had and think about what we want from the months ahead. For many people, this comes with a burst of motivation and a list of New Year’s resolutions — whether that’s improving health, saving money, or making changes to their career.

However, I truly believe that not sticking to a resolution for the entire year does not mean you’ve failed. Life is unpredictable, priorities change, and sometimes things simply don’t work out the way we planned. What matters most is the intention behind the goal and the effort you put in, even if it doesn’t last forever.

Some of the resolutions I made last year are still important to me — even the ones I didn’t stick to. Instead of seeing that as a failure, I’ve decided to revisit them with a fresh mindset. This year isn’t about perfection, it’s about trying again with more kindness towards myself.

Saving Money

Every year, I tell myself that this will be the year I save properly — and every year, life has other plans. Whether it’s impulse purchases, unexpected expenses, or simply enjoying things a little too much in the moment, saving has always been a challenge for me.

This year, though, I want to be more intentional. I want to grow my savings so I can enjoy experiences with my partner without constantly worrying about money. We dream of travelling, creating memories together, and doing things that feel exciting and meaningful. I’d also love to invest in more tattoos that represent our journey, save towards our wedding, and eventually buy my own car.

For me, saving money isn’t just about numbers — it’s about building a future that feels secure, exciting, and full of shared experiences.

Learning to Drive

This year, I turn 33, and I’ve come to the realisation that it’s time for me to learn how to drive.

It’s something I’ve always planned to do, but for one reason or another, life kept getting in the way. Other priorities took over, and this goal kept being pushed aside. Now, though, not being able to drive feels like something that’s holding me back.

Learning to drive would give me more independence, open up new job opportunities, and make everyday life a little easier. It’s long overdue, but this year I’m committed to finally taking that step — even if it feels daunting.

Finding a New Job

Another big goal for me this year is finding a new job that aligns better with my interests and long-term goals.

I’ve been in my current role for a long time, and while I’m grateful for what it’s taught me, I feel ready for a change. The routine has become repetitive, and I want a role that challenges me, allows me to grow, and gives me something to work towards.

I’m looking for a position that genuinely excites me — somewhere with opportunities to learn, progress, and work alongside people who are passionate about what they do. This year, I’m committed to updating my CV, improving my skills, and putting myself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable.

I know job hunting takes time, but I’m ready to be patient and persistent in finding something that truly fulfils me.

Losing Weight, Healing My Body & Eating Healthier

This is probably the most personal resolution for me.

Losing weight has always been difficult, and it’s been made even harder by ongoing health conditions that affect both my physical and mental well-being. Over the years, this has often left me feeling frustrated and discouraged.

This year, my focus isn’t just on weight loss — it’s on healing my body and taking care of myself properly. That means working with healthcare professionals, learning what my body actually needs, and building habits that are realistic and sustainable.

I want to approach this journey with patience, understanding, and compassion rather than pressure or guilt.

Prioritising Sleep

Since meeting my partner, we’ve developed a habit of waking each other up when one of us gets home from work. At first, it felt sweet — a small moment together — but over time, it’s started to take a toll on both of us.

Our schedules are very different, and constantly interrupting each other’s sleep has left us feeling tired, irritable, and less present when we are actually awake together. We’ve realised that prioritising our sleep is essential, not just for our health, but for our relationship.

This year, we’re making a conscious effort to respect each other’s rest, even if it means missing those brief moments when one of us comes home. Better sleep will allow us to show up as better partners — and that feels worth it.

A Final Thought

This year, I’m trying to let go of the idea that resolutions have to be perfect or permanent. Progress doesn’t have to be linear, and trying again is never a bad thing.

Here’s to a year of self-compassion, growth, and continuing to show up — even when things don’t go exactly to plan.

— Chantelle