The Real Chic Life

I love a fresh start- a new month, a new year, even a birthday. I’ll take any excuse to set new intentions for myself. As we round the bend toward 2025, I’m already thinking about goal setting. Speaking of which, my word of the year has already come to me (I can’t wait to share it here). That means one new year’s goal is already done- check! 

But more importantly (or rather with more immediacy) I’m thinking about what I’d still like to accomplish during the last two months of this year.  While I think I’ve made it clear that I like to embrace new beginnings, I also believe in finishing strong.

Based on the trending October Theory chances are you might be thinking about what you did or didn’t accomplish as the clock ticks toward the new year. So here are some ideas to help you make the most of the last two months of this year:

1. Reflect and Set Intentions

Reflect on what went well and what could improve. Write down highlights, lessons learned, and any challenges overcome this year. 

Set mini goals to finish the year strong- like finishing a book, mastering a new recipe, or building a habit.

2. Organize and Declutter

Declutter your space and get organized. Clean out closets, delete old files, and tidy up your workspace to start the new year with a fresh environment.

This can make space for any new habits or items you want to welcome into your life.

3. Focus on Health and Wellbeing

Stay active and enjoy the fall or early winter weather. Set a goal to do daily stretches, go for walks, or try a new workout routine. We have had so many beautiful days this fall that my pups have been enjoying two walks a day. I’ve also started a new indoor running routine that will take me through the winter too. 

Prioritize mental wellness by practicing gratitude, meditating, or journaling. This can help boost your mindset for the new year.

4. Wrap Up Projects and Tie Loose Ends

Finish any pending tasks at work or personal projects you’ve put on hold; completing these will free you up for a fresh start.

Check your finances and budget for the holidays. This helps avoid any end-of-year financial stress. Plan for next year’s savings goals.

5. Reconnect with Relationships

Reach out to friends and family you haven’t seen or spoken to lately. Sending a quick message or planning a get-together is a great way to reconnect.

Host a small gathering or cozy meal as an opportunity to enjoy quality time- Friendsgiving, anyone?

6. Give Back

Consider volunteering your time, donating to a charity, or doing small acts of kindness in your community. Someone paid for my daughter’s coffee order last week and it made her day. Everyone’s a little stressed right now. It’s cool to be kind. 

Giving back often adds meaning to the season and creates a positive impact.

7. Plan for the New Year

Start vision-boarding or writing down goals for next year. Envision what you want to achieve and how you want to feel. I just purchased this beautiful board for my office. 

If you enjoy journaling, make a list of intentions, habits, or areas of focus you’d like to pursue.

Focusing on these simple steps can help you feel fulfilled and ready to start the new year with a refreshed mindset. 

I’d love to hear how you ensure a strong finish and if you pick a word to guide your new year. 

Until next post,

Xo Tonya Parker