“Something about this year – whether it’s the even numbers or the new century – feels really really good.” That’s how I started my 2020 goals post this time last year. I was so optimistic that the year was going to be really great. How funny to look back at that blind optimisim for the new year now that we know how things turned out.
While the past year literally went the opposite of what we expected, I was surprised to look back at my 2020 goals to find that I accomplished most of them. There were of course the goals that were pretty much impossible (see: hot air balloon ride), but overall I’m proud of what I was able to do despite the crazy year.
I’m going to be taking hope and optimism into 2021, even though I know things are going to remain the same for a while. If there’s one thing I learned in 2020, it’s not to have overly high expectations. I won’t sit here and say this year is going to be a great one, but I will say that I’m going to take my newfound gratitude and perspective into the new year.
Keep reading for my 2021 New Year’s goals. Here’s hoping 2021 is better than the last!
Xx, Kelsey
PERSONAL GOALS
- Find gratitude – The number one thing I took away from 2020 was a sense of gratitude. I’ve been lucky in so many ways, and this year put it all in perspective. One of my most important 2021 New Year’s goals will be to carry that newfound gratitude into 2021.
- Continued allyship – I learned a lot in 2020 about allyship. In 2021, I want to continue learning and growing in this space. Racial injustice was not just a 2020 problem, and I want to continue doing my part moving forward.
- Strengthen communication in my relationship – Jon and I spent all but one day in 2020 together, which taught us a lot about communication. In 2021, I plan to ask Jon how he’s doing/feeling more often. Then sit back and listen with full focus.
PROFESSIONAL GOALS
- Continue finding work/life balance – I started last year looking for work/life balance because my job had gotten exceedingly stressful. By default, I ended up achieving this goal after losing that job and finding a new one. With the new freelance gig, I’ve found the work/life balance I was craving. For my 2021 New Year’s goals, I’m planning to continue making choices that support that work/life balance.
- Professional growth – Even though I’m working as a freelancer, this year I want to develop more leadership skills and become a better manager. I also want to focus on reading more about professional growth and carrying that into the workplace.
BLOGGING GOALS
- Additional paid campaigns – 2020 was the first time I was paid for a campaign. And it didn’t stop with one campaign. I’ve developed a great portfolio and recognized my value as a blogger and content creator. I plan to keep this momentum going in 2021.
- Strengthen my photography skills – In 2020, I stopped shooting as much with my camera. Instead, I focused on using my iPhone because it was easier. This year, I want to return to shooting with my camera and produce higher quality content.
FINANCIAL GOALS
- Invest for the future – Surprisingly, I was able to save a ton during the second half of 2020. In 2021, I want to invest that money for the future. Things like buying a house are on the horizon, and I want to be prepared.
- Spend with intention – Losing my job in 2020 combined with the various lockdowns helped me take a closer look at my spending habits. In 2021, I aim to focus more on spending with intention and avoiding buying things just to buy.
STYLE GOALS
- Dress for me – As a blogger, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that you always have to dress for others. This year, I want to dress for myself more often – whether that’s wearing something over the top when we go out again or wearing something comfy around the house because it makes me feel good.
- Invest in high-quality pieces – The pandemic really highlighted the importance of investing in higher quality, more ethical fashion. Moving forward, I want to invest in more classic, high-quality pieces instead of building a wardrobe full of cheaper fast fashion.
FITNESS & HEALTH GOALS
- Continue running throughout the year – At the end of this past year, I started running regularly. It’s something I swore I’d never do because I’ve always hated running. It’s still not my favorite workout, to be honest. Since the pandemic, I haven’t felt comfortable going to my favorite spin classes. I don’t see that changing until late 2021 (if at all). So I want to keep up the running I’ve started, but with no pressure to do a certain number of miles or days.
- Practice more yoga – Yoga is one of my favorite workouts. In fact, I did yoga teacher training when I lived in Colorado many years ago. Despite my love for it, I don’t do it nearly enough. In 2021, I want to incorporate more yoga into my routine.
TRAVEL GOALS
- Be grateful for every trip – While I’d love to make concrette travel goals, things are still very uncertain in 2021. I’m hoping that there will be an opportunity to visit some of my bucket list places and experience the hot air balloon ride I was hoping for in 2020. But with so much uncertainty, I’ll just be grateful for any and all travel we are able to take.
OUTFIT DETAILS:
H&M coat (Not available in camel in the US. Similar camel version here) (EU)
