guide to setting New Year goals

The start of a new year is a wonderful opportunity to reset, refresh, and reassess our goals. As a life coach, my job is to help clients create practical, meaningful goals tailored to their unique circumstances. This year, I encourage you to think about setting goals in four key areas: personal, family, relationship, and parenting.

1. Personal Goals

Personal goals are about you. As parents, we often put ourselves last, but prioritizing personal growth is essential. Ask yourself: What would you like to achieve this year?

• Examples: Starting a new hobby, going back to school, spending more time with friends, or improving your health (losing weight, reducing your cholesterol).

These goals remind us that self-care is not selfish—it’s necessary for us to thrive.

2. Family Goals

Family goals strengthen the bond within your household. These goals can help create intentional moments of connection.

• Examples:

• Spending weekends together without distractions.

• Implementing a “no phones during meals” rule.

• Reducing screen time or spending more time outdoors.

Sit down as a family to discuss how you can grow together and support one another.

3. Relationship Goals

Parenting, especially when raising a child with disabilities, can be stressful and take a toll on relationships. Setting relationship goals with your spouse or partner is important.

• Examples:

• Scheduling regular date nights, even if planned months in advance.

• Improving communication and working as a team.

• Spending time together without screens or distractions.

Strong relationships provide a foundation of support for the entire family.

4. Parenting Goals for Your Child

For parents of children with complex medical needs and/or developmental delays, setting specific, actionable goals for your child can make a big difference. Also, can apply to parenting goals in general and improve where needed.

• Examples:

• Helping your child improve their handwriting.

• Exploring holistic approaches to manage anxiety.

• Working towards milestones like reducing medication or gaining independence in daily tasks.

These goals provide focus and allow you to celebrate progress throughout the year.

My Final Thoughts

As we embrace 2025, remember to keep your goals practical, tangible, and realistic based on your circumstances. Goal-setting is not about perfection—it’s about progress.

I hope these suggestions inspire you to create meaningful goals for yourself, your family, and your child. Wishing you a year filled with growth, joy, and success!