Do What Matters: My New Year’s Approach

I’ve never been one for strict New Year’s resolutions. The pressure, the rigidity —it’s just not for me. But this year, I’ve embraced a mantra instead that I borrow shamelessy from ACT’s model of psychological flexibility: do what matters. It’s simple, but it’s helping me stay focused and intentional about how I spend my time.

So, what matters to me? Creativity, nurturing my business, managing my health, and making space for quality time and fun with my partner. And one big realization I had? I wasn’t reading as much as I used to, and I missed it. So, I’m making sure books are a part of my everyday life again.

So here are my small but meaningful commitments to myself:

1. Hydration First

I’m rubbish at drinking water. So every morning, before I even get out of bed, I make sure I drink a glass of the stuff. It sounds small, but it makes a difference. I feel more awake, more clear-headed, and ready to start my day on a good note.  It’s a tip I read about keeping the brain hydrated and I met up with a friend recently who was also doing it and feeling the benefits.

2. Read Every Day

Even if it’s just for ten minutes. I used to devour books, but somewhere along the way, particularly during Covid, that habit faded. Now, I’m making a conscious effort to carve out reading time; rather than scrolling through my stupid phone, I’m picking up a book. Current read? Trent Dalton's All Our Shimmering Skies.

3. Honour My Studio Mondays

Mondays are sacred. About 18 months ago I shifted to a four day week and I nominated Monday’s as my art studio days, set aside for creative work.  I do a full day, and there’s  no meetings, no admin, no distractions. Just space to explore and create. It’s easy to let work demands creep in, but I’m committed to protecting this time.

4. Keep Swimming**

There’s something about being in the water that I love. Last year on holiday I swam every day for 30 minutes before breakfast and reminded me of how good it makes me feel, and I don’t want that feeling to fade. So, once a week, I make sure to get in the pool. It’s not just exercise; it’s a way to reset and feel good in my head and in my body. Im a lousy swimmer but that's not the point :).

5. Do some coaching Research

This is where I'm really procrastinating. I’ve been sitting on this idea for a while.  I want to contribute something meaningful to the coaching community—whether that’s through writing a book, or publishing papers. That means committing to research, writing, and reflection. It’s not about rushing the process but making steady progress.  I’ve started slowly but at least I’ve started.  The plan is emerging. Watch this space; I'm gonna need your help!

6. Say Yes—Especially When it scares the you know what out of me

Opportunities come in all shapes and sizes, and some of the best ones are the most terrifying. Whether it’s a new work project, or showing my artwork at a fair, or diving back into research, I’m making a conscious effort to say yes to the things that challenge me.

7.Keep having fun. I'm a huge fan of balance and I think keeping physically and psychologically well also means doing the silly fun stuff. Whether that's going to a festival, going dancing, seeing great theatre or comedy, travelling, vissiting a gallery, or simply a coffee date after work, I continue to make time each week for the stuff that brings a massive smile to my face.

As we near the end of January, I’m pleased to say that I am sticking to my commitments, and I’m feeling optimistic about how the year is shaping up.

This isn’t a rigid checklist; it’s a guide to keep me aligned with what truly matters.  The point isn’t perfection—it’s intention. It’s about showing up for the things that make life meaningful.

So here’s to a year of doing what matters.