As we start the new year, it’s natural to reflect on the past and think about the changes you want to make. For single mothers, this time can bring both hope and uncertainty. Juggling parenting, work, and personal life is no small feat, and the pressure to “get it all right” can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: the New Year is an opportunity to create a life you love, on your own terms. Here’s how you can approach the New Year with confidence, clarity, and a sense of empowerment.
1. Define What Happiness Means to You
Before you can create a life you love, it’s essential to understand what happiness looks like for you. This may seem straightforward, but many of us operate on autopilot, chasing goals that society, friends, or family deem important. Take time to reflect on what truly brings YOU joy and fulfilment. Is it spending more time with your kids, socialising, advancing in your career, or finding moments of solitude and self-care?
💥Action Step: Set aside quiet time to journal about what happiness means to you. Write down three things that bring you the most joy and satisfaction. These will become your guiding principles as you set goals for the New Year.
2. Set Intentions, Not Just Resolutions
Resolutions often fail because they focus on rigid outcomes rather than the mindset and values that drive them. Instead of setting resolutions, try setting intentions. Intentions are about how you want to feel and who you want to be, rather than what you want to achieve. This shift in perspective allows for greater flexibility and kindness toward yourself.
💥Action Step: Think about the qualities you want to cultivate in the New Year. Do you want to be more patient, resilient, joyful, or courageous? Write down your intentions and keep them visible as a daily reminder.
3. Embrace Your Independence
Single motherhood can sometimes feel isolating, but it also offers a unique opportunity to define your life on your own terms. Embrace your independence by making decisions that align with your values and priorities, without feeling the need to seek validation from others. Celebrate your autonomy and the freedom to create a life that reflects who you are.
💥Action Step: Make a list of things you love to do but haven’t made time for. Schedule one of these activities for yourself each week. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a dance class, or enjoying a cup of coffee in peace, these moments are essential for reconnecting with yourself.
4. Build a Support Network
While independence is empowering, having a support network is equally important. Surround yourself with people who uplift, encourage, and support you. This can include friends, family, or other single mothers who understand your journey. A strong support system can provide emotional strength, practical help, and a sense of community.
💥Action Step: Reach out to other single mothers or join a local support group. Online communities and social media groups can also provide valuable connections and support.
5. Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. As a single mother, taking care of yourself is crucial for your well-being and your ability to care for your children. Make self-care a priority by setting aside time for activities that nurture your mind, body, and soul. This could include exercise, meditation, reading, or simply taking a relaxing bath.
💥Action Step: Schedule “me time” in your calendar each week. Treat it as an important appointment that you cannot cancel. Remember, taking care of yourself is an investment in your overall happiness and ability to be there for your kids.
6. Set Realistic Goals
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the New Year and set ambitious goals. However, setting unrealistic expectations can lead to burnout and disappointment. Focus on setting small, achievable goals that align with your intentions. Break larger goals into manageable steps and celebrate your progress along the way.
💥Action Step: Write down one or two main goals for the year and break them into smaller monthly or weekly tasks. Track your progress and adjust your goals as needed to keep them realistic and attainable.
7. Create New Traditions
The New Year is a perfect time to start new traditions that reflect your values and the life you want to create. Whether it’s a weekly family movie night, a Sunday morning pancake breakfast, or an annual trip to a favourite spot, these traditions can bring joy and stability to your family life.
💥Action Step: Brainstorm new traditions you’d like to start with your kids. Choose one or two to implement in the New Year and involve your children in the planning process to make it special and meaningful.
8. Celebrate Your Strengths
Single motherhood is challenging, but it’s also a testament to your strength, resilience, and ability to overcome obstacles. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognising your achievements boosts your confidence and reinforces your ability to create the life you love.
💥Action Step: At the end of each day, write down one thing you did well or are proud of. This simple practice helps cultivate a positive mindset and appreciation for your efforts.
The New Year is a blank canvas, full of possibilities. As a single mother, you have the power to create a life you love, on your own terms. By defining your own happiness, setting meaningful intentions, embracing your independence, and surrounding yourself with support, you can navigate the challenges and joys of single motherhood with confidence and grace. Remember, the life you want is within your reach – it all starts with taking that first step forward.
Here’s to a New Year filled with growth, joy, and a life that reflects the amazing woman you are!
P.S. DID YOU KNOW?
Thrive Tribe – the global membership experience for single mothers – will be opening again very soon! Join the waitlist here.
PLUS You can book one-on-one coaching with Julia Hasche from wherever you are in the world!
- Do you need clarity on whether you should leave your partner or not?
- Have you just parted ways with your partner, and feeling lost?
- Have you been single for a little while now and need assistance with getting your life back on track and feeling empowered?
Click HERE to read about coaching and to hear from some others who have gone through coaching programs with Julia, and book in here for your 30-minute complimentary Clarity Call.
The purpose of the Clarity Call is:
- For me to get to know you and understand an overview of your current situation and where you are at.
- For us to establish what you need assistance with to move forward.
- To see if we are both comfortable working together.
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