Goals, Not Resolutions: Building a Purposeful Year in 2025

Forget Resolutions, Set Goals

“New Year, New You!” How many times have we heard that phrase? And how often do we find ourselves pressured to declare lofty resolutions that feel daunting before February even rolls around? For me, resolutions sound rigid—like permanent changes that leave no room for human fallibility. And I’m human. Instead of resolutions, I’ve learned to focus on goals: flexible, actionable, and broken down into manageable steps.

If you follow me on YouTube (@amberwalshrealtor), you might already know some of my goals for this year. But here, I want to dive deeper—exploring not just what I aim to achieve, but why these goals matter to me and how I plan to make them happen. Some are long-term, some are short-term, and all of them feel personal, exciting, and within reach.

My 2025 Goals

1. Lose 5 Pounds a Month
   This goal builds on my success from last year when I lost 60 pounds. It’s flexible because I know progress ebbs and flows. My priority is health, not perfection, and I’ll adjust as I go. Weight loss has always been on my mind, and I’ll likely write a dedicated blog post about how this journey has shaped me.
2. Reduce Debt
   I’m determined to free up more of my monthly income for savings, travel, and family time. This goal involves smaller steps—like budgeting, cutting unnecessary expenses, and staying disciplined. Financial freedom is my ultimate motivation.
3. Start a Garden
   I’m embracing sustainability! Growing fruits and veggies means fewer grocery trips, and learning to can food is a skill I’m excited to master. Last year, I made vanilla extract; this year, I’m taking it further.
4. Take Steps Toward My Doctorate
   While earning my doctorate won’t happen this year, starting my Research Concept/Design course is the first step. “Dr. Amber” feels like a distant dream, but with God’s grace and determination, it’s becoming a reality.
5. Build an Emergency Fund
   This ties closely to my financial goals. Having a safety net will give me peace of mind and allow me to focus on long-term aspirations without constant financial worry.
6. Make Scratch-Made Foods
   Cooking from scratch not only saves money but also nourishes my family in a way that feels deeply rewarding. It’s about empowerment and connecting with my roots.
7. Practice Daily Gratitude
   Writing down one thing I’m grateful for every day keeps me grounded. Gratitude reminds me of God’s blessings and shifts my perspective, even during tough times.
8. Take a Magical Vacation
   Orlando Studios and Disney World are on the agenda! My teens may not be little kids anymore, but I believe these magical destinations have something for everyone.
9. Achieve $150,000 in Income
   This ambitious goal stretches my limits, but writing it down feels like a declaration of faith in myself. Even if I don’t hit the mark, I’ll celebrate every milestone along the way.
10. Enjoy Work-Life Balance
    Balancing success at work and joy at home is essential. I want to thrive in both areas without one overshadowing the other.
11. Sell 15 Homes and Close 60 Transactions
    Real estate is my passion, and these targets reflect the drive I bring to my career. Bonus: I launched my own LLC in 2024, so that’s one milestone already achieved!

Breaking Goals Into Steps

Big dreams can feel overwhelming, but I’ve learned that breaking them into smaller, actionable steps makes all the difference. Monthly milestones, weekly plans, and daily habits turn goals into reality—and I’ll be sharing more on this approach in future posts.

Your Goals Matter Too

What about you? What are your goals for this year? Big or small, let’s cheer each other on. Drop a comment below and let’s work together to make 2025 a year of growth, balance, and joy.

Have a blessed Friday! 💖