I’m a big fan of the New Year, new habits, a new planner, fresh routines, and new goals. Every January feels like a natural pause to reflect on wellness, routines, and what actually supports a calmer, more balanced life, especially as a mom. After the rush from October through December, a reset always feels overdue. This year, instead of setting one big resolution that I never quite meet, I’m focusing on a simple but intentional list of ins & outs. I’m also narrowing my focus by month, so these shifts feel more ingrained in my everyday life, and ideally leave me feeling more accomplished and nourished by the end of the year.
Ins for 2026
Skincare consistency
Actually sticking to my morning and night routines (yes, with a double cleanse at night). I’m prioritizing hydration and leaning into affordable skincare that works. You don’t need luxury prices for good skin. (ShopMy skincare favorites here.)
Water before coffee
Hydrating from the inside out. How silly is it that we wake our cells with caffeine before water? One small habit that makes a big difference. I still love my Owala water bottle.
Prioritizing fiber (hello, daily juice)
I’m pretty good about protein and balancing macros, but fiber is the real healer heading into 2026. I use the Nama J2 almost daily, it’s truly been worth the investment.
Downtime and real rest (a mom can dream)
I’m the kind of mom who tries to make rest productive, which does absolutely nothing for my constantly high cortisol. This year, I’m working on actually resting, without guilt.
Saying yes more often
Specifically in parenting, I tend to say no too quickly, usually because something feels inconvenient, not because it actually deserves a no. This year I want to lead with flexibility and grace. #doingmybest
Making time for hobbies (like writing)
Since becoming a mom, I sometimes don’t even know what to do with free time that truly fills my cup. I’m still figuring out what my hobbies are now, but I do know that writing is one of them, and I want to lean into that.
Splurging on pajamas
I’m home a lot and work from home, so I want comfy, luxurious pajamas (luxurious doesn’t always mean expensive). Bonus points if they don’t shrink or shorten in the wash because who has time to hang-dry pajamas? These Skims pajamas are my absolute favorite. I own three pairs.
Voice notes
If you’re a mom, you get it. No further explanation needed.
Pinterest
I’m over doomscrolling, but Pinterest makes me feel like I’m creating something…a vision, a mood, an idea. And I love that.
Outs for 2026
Coffee as a meal
I used to add collagen to my coffee and call it breakfast, thinking it would sustain me until lunch. Hello, hormone issues.
Believing others’ opinions of me are my business
I can’t control their thoughts, so why give them my energy? Reading The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins really helped shift my perspective here.
Black mascara
This might sound silly, but I’ve been firmly on the brown mascara train, and I truly think more people should be. Black can feel harsh, while brown softens everything. I especially love the Blinc tubing mascara, or Ilia’s brown mascara.
Clothes that don’t make me feel good
Jeans too tight? Bye. Shirt too boxy? No thanks. I want to feel good in everything I put on, even my oversized sweatshirts.
Saving outfits for a “special occasion”
Last year, I bought four dresses that I never wore because I thought I didn’t have anywhere special enough to wear them. Turns out, that wasn’t true, I was just holding myself back. This year, if I love it, I wear it.
Overcommitting
I want weekends that are light, slow, and open. And I don’t want to feel like that’s unproductive.
The middle part (maybe)
Okay, maybe not fully out, but can we at least try a side part again?
Long nails
Between life and being a mom to two little ones, long nails just don’t work for me. Plus, shorter, simpler nails feel cleaner and more classic. Anyone else?
Here’s to a year of small, intentional shifts, and letting go of what no longer serves us.
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Steadily Unbalanced 