You don't have to have permission to make 2026 the year of you.  I'm not talking about setting overzealous resolutions that will annoy you in a couple of months or some aspirational "New Year, New You" bullshit. I'm talking about making yourself a priority—to honor, love, forgive and prioritize yourself. Every day, without excuses.

The best way to get through a big to do list is to break down each task into smaller tasks. Similarly, the best way to create lasting change, making ourselves a priority in our day-to-day lives is by breaking down life-changing habits into “microshifts.” 

“A mind blowing, singular breakthrough is not what changes your life. A microshift is.” ~Brianna Wiest

Each month, we’ll give you a specific way to prioritize yourself, along with a blog that will help you implement a new microshift, little by little.

Why You Need A Year of You

Research has shown not only are women more susceptible to burnout, but they face higher rates of burnout than men — statistics show the problem worsening in the last few years. It's no wonder! We are wired to be constantly on alert. We tend to be caregivers in some capacity – children, grandchildren, partners, aging parents, fur babies, the list goes on. We bear a greater burden of domestic chores and errands. And as we strive to get ahead or just make ends meet, we experience alarmingly high levels of burnout in the workforce. All of this on top of facing mental health challenges, which we are 40% more likely to develop than men. 

Our high level of stress puts us in a continuous state of fight or flight, causing our nervous system to be on overload. That can lead to trouble sleeping, anxious thoughts, feelings of overwhelm and plain old fashion stress. Sound familiar? I designed this guide to help you take your life back on your terms. Life should be more than just another task to power through. 

When It All Feels Like Too Much

• First and foremost find compassion for yourself. Acknowledge how you feel is valid.
• Know you are not alone in your struggle.
• Give yourself grace, you’re doing the best you can.
• Indulge - pasta, chocolate, wine, fruity drinks with umbrellas, Netflix and chill. Pick your poison - responsibly.
• Listen to music. Loud! Dance!
• Cry. A little. A lot. Ugly cry. I am sometimes afraid to start crying, because I worry I'll never stop! Get out of your house and go for a walk.
• Call a friend. Ugly cry together. Indulge together. Walk and talk.

If all you did today was survive – that’s okay. Tomorrow is another opportunity to prioritize yourself. Just remember, you cannot thrive if you’re just trying to survive.

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This blog is intended to provide helpful suggestions for self care and overall well-being. I am not a mental health professional. If you’re struggling I encourage you to seek the help of a professional. Find a Mental Health Professional | National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988