Happy New Year Mama!
Can you believe we're already in 2024? It feels like just last week I was still planning Christmas, but here we are, in the first week of a brand-new year. Allow me to reintroduce myself. My name is Devon and if you're new to my blog, welcome! I'm a mom of three amazing children, four if you count my husband (lol). It's been over a year since my last article, and while I could make excuses, I won't. A lot has changed since then. In November 2022, I started working at a new firm as a paralegal and if I am being honest, I am still trying to find that work-life harmony. Looking back, it's hard to believe you've been with me since I graduated in 2021 and landed my first job in a law firm. I started this blog to inspire moms to dust off their dreams and begin pursuing them. As a mom, it is so easy to feel like you've lost your identity, given how our priorities tend to revolve around our children and that’s okay, but when will you start living again? This is your friendly reminder that you can be an amazing mom and still work on your dreams! Don't let society, friends, or family dictate how to be a mom. If you are doubting yourself, DON'T! Mama, you're BEAUTIFUL, INTELLIGENT, INSPIRING, and A DAMN GOOD MOTHER and I'm here to remind you that YOUR GOALS MATTER! So, let's talk about it!
Grab yourself a glass of wine and let's discuss the power of goal setting. You're probably thinking, "How will setting goals benefit me?" or "I don't have time to set goals." But let me tell you, mama, this is farthest from the truth. As moms, we create a daily task list, which isn't any different from setting goals. Except the goals you're working towards are part of a bigger picture or may ignite a passion you once had. Think about a goal you'd like to accomplish this year and consider what's keeping you from starting. Time? Fear of failure? Lack of motivation? Whatever your reason, know that setting goals for yourself is as important as anything else on your daily task list. As moms, we often feel guilty when we want to do something for ourselves, including working on our goals. But I want to change your perspective on this. When you think about goals, what comes to mind? For me, it was the first time I watched "Legally Blonde," which inspired me to want to become an attorney. To be clear I am not an attorney (Yet). As I grew older, my passion for the legal field continued to grow. However, I didn't start setting goals until 2012, I know, I know it’s 2024... but hear me out. As my family continued to grow, I became less motivated, and if I’m being transparent, I was intimated by my goals, I didn’t think I could accomplish them because my priorities had changed, and let's not forget the lingering mom guilt that began to play a significant role in my life.
It was around 2018 that I finally decided to begin working on my goals again, it didn’t come without obstacles, but I will tell you this it gave me a sense of purpose other than just being a mom. I decided that I would not wallow in my "mama guilt" and prioritize my goals. While mom guilt is a normal feeling, I had to change my frame of mind and realize that it's okay to prioritize self-care and personal aspirations. It took a long time for me to understand that working on my goals didn't detract from my parenting; it became an outlet for self-care. My goals have provided me with direction, focus, and motivation, and the best part; my children have become my biggest fans and a voice of encouragement. Setting goals will help you prioritize the things that are most important to you while encouraging you to take action toward achieving them. As cliche as this sounds think of it like this, where would you be without your daily "Mom Task List," it is our saving grace especially if you are a forgetful mom like me (lol). So, I ask you again, what's keeping you from creating or revamping your goals? Whether you're a new mom, seasoned mom, or mom-to-be, I urge you to be intentional with your goals and never stop reaching for the stars. Remember setting goals can give you direction, purpose, and a sense of accomplishment.
If this resonated with you, I hope you check back in next week to discuss how to set and crush your goals!
As always mama I am rooting for you!
With love,
Devon