Lifestyle Review: 2016 New Year Resolutions

I took a little look back at my resolutions for 2015 and (bar losing a few pounds and becoming a millionaire), I pretty much managed to nail it. Even though there were definitely times when it didn't feel that way, it really was an OK year which has made me feel all the happier about setting myself some goals for 2016. Here's my 2016 New Year's Resolutions...

Blogging Goals. Last year, I was really fortunate to work with some of my most loved brands; get featured by one of my favourite magazines, get nominated for two blog awards and meet some amazing new people. All a result of my blog. I never really set out to do anything and nor will I this year but I hope to continue on the same path. I also think I need to take a step back and not let certain things irritate me so much. For the past few years, I've found particular "bloggers" straight up ripping off my content, imitating my every social media post or going out of their way to contact my collaborators. I'm just waiting to see this same lightbox featured by them also. I need to just accept that these things happen; that it's still my own even when copied and that person will hopefully, one day, find their own way. If they ever want to reach out and say "hi" though, they're more than welcome to. 

Flat goals. Jack and I have already been flat hunting and I'm determined to find a new place to live and make it my own over the next six months. It's been a long time coming but, having only been together for two years and living together for one, we've been realistic and done all the right things to insure we do this right. This is my biggest goal of the year and, hopefully soon, I might just be sharing a tour of my new flat with you all.

Money goals. This point ties in nicely with the whole idea of moving house. In January 2015, I told myself I wanted to have this thing called "savings". Amongst us bloggers, "savings" are sometimes hard to come by what with all those wonderful fashion and beauty products tempting us daily. I did, however, manage to do it after years of making excuses. Weirdly, the more I saved, the more I wanted to and the more I wanted not to dip in to it. Majority of these savings are going to be spent on our flat - making it look pretty and building our first real home together and so putting a few tattoos or mini breaks on hold seems worth it.  

Work goals. Of course, if you want to save money - you have to be making money. Everyone wants to do well, earn more and strive to be the best at work. In 2014, my goal was to ditch retail forever, find myself a job I enjoyed and work hard. Not only did I manage to find that job but I also managed to get a promotion within the year. This year, I want to keep that mindset and continue to do better and challenge myself in the workplace. I'm very fortunate to work where I do, with the people I do.

Body positivity goals. Myself and thousands of others probably say this every year but I'd like to lose a few pounds in 2016. This, of course, was on last year's resolutions but, like everyone, I have some days where I feel pretty confident in my own skin and others where I just want to hide under a Homer-style muumuu. But none of that this year! I've already been off to a good start and I'm trying my best to make positive steps and live a little healthier. If I lose some weight in the process, even better. 

Travel goals. I think 2015 was a great year for new adventures and travelling. Besides my solo trips to various new places in the UK, Jack and I went to Disneyland for our birthdays, spent a week in Center Parcs and even revisited Germany for a second time. I certainly got a taste for wanderlust. What with moving house and saving, I'm not sure how much travelling we'll be able to do this year but who knows? I'd certainly like to give it a try. 

Selfless goals. We all make excuses not to volunteer for things or give money. With my promotion at work, I figured I could spare a little extra for a few charities of my choice each month in the hopes of giving something back. I set up a direct debit for Cats Protection and International Animal Rescue and as of yet, I haven't even noticed it coming out of my account. I do think that it's important to research a charity and the percentage of just how much of their funds actually go to those who need it before setting up a monthly donation. 

So there you have it. I look forward to revisiting some of these in January 2017 and seeing how I did. Do you have any New Year's resolutions? How did last year's resolutions pan out for you? Thanks so much for all the support over the past 12 months and for sticking with Popcorn and Glitter.

Wishing you all the very best in 2016,