Letting Go, Leaning In, and Finding Peace: What I am focusing on this year!
Now that I have had a quiet January spent in stillness and reflection, stepping into the new year feels like moving forward with purpose instead of rushing. It’s about letting things become clear naturally and choosing what feels right for who I am after this month of quiet. During this month I’ve been reflecting on what I want for myself in the months ahead. It’s not about resolutions to get more fit or declutter the house (though let’s be honest, both could use some attention lol ). But, this year, I’m focusing on something deeper—on being more present, more open, and more at peace with the changes happening in my family.
I’ve realized that I want more for myself —and it’s not at all in a material sense, but in the way I live and connect with the people I love. I want more meaningful conversations with my husband and a deeper connection with each one of my kids. I want to surrender to the changes that come as my kids grow older and seek more independence. Most of all, I want to quiet the anxiety that grips me every time I think about letting them go.
Letting go is hard. It feels unnatural, especially as a mom. I’ve spent years guiding, protecting, and loving them with my whole heart. And now, as they slowly start to gain more independence, I find myself clinging to control because the thought of them stumbling—or not needing me as much—fills me with so much fear=anxiety. But deep down, I know this: they’re ready. And I need to be ready too.
This year, I’m making a promise to myself to do my best to lean into this new chapter of my life and find some peace in the process. I’m going to start by taking small but meaningful steps.
I learned about the SMART method- it is a simple way to set meaningful goals that you can actually achieve. The SMART method stands for (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) by George T. Doran, 1980’s. “When this methods is used it makes your goals feel less overwhelming and more doable”.
Here’s how I’m starting:
1.Weekly One-on-One Time with Each One of My Kids & quality time once a week with my hubby
I’m going to start by setting aside 15 mins to 1.2 hour every week, for each of my kiddos and hubby. This time will be all about listening t what’s on their hearts and minds, without me interrupting or trying to solve anything. I will make sure we have this space every Wednesday ( Wellness Wednesday ) evening and every month. I will also check in with myself to make sure I am keeping this promise to myself. I love my people so much and I want to be here for them in the best way I can with more intention and presence.
2.Mindfulness Practice to Manage Anxiety
I’m committing to 10 minutes of mindfulness/stillness every morning to help manage my anxiety and stay present. I’m also going to get back to using guided meditations and do this at least five days a week. By April, I want to feel ready to face the day with calmness, even when unexpected things happen.
3.Encouraging Independence with Support
I want to help my kids grow more independent, so instead of stepping in right away, I’ll ask things like, “What do you think you should do?” or “How can I help you figure this out?” I’ll keep track of one time each week where I let them solve a problem or make a decision on their own. By June, I hope this becomes a habit, and I want them to feel how much I trust in them.
This year, I want to create a home where communication is open, independence is celebrated with confidence and not feared, and anxiety doesn’t steal my joy of continuing to watch them grow into amazing young adults.
My goal is be consistent not perfect. I know it won’t be easy, and I’ll probably mess up along the way and that’s ok. But I’m ready to try because my family deserves the best version of me—and I deserve it too.
Here’s to a year of letting go, leaning in, and finding peace in the beautiful, messy journey of parenthood.
From my heart to yours, Stacey ♥️
