I’ve been thinking a lot about New Year’s resolutions lately, particularly about setting realistic goals for new moms (and not-so-new moms) in 2025. You know what’s funny? As I look back at my goals from last year, they’re practically identical to what I’m writing down now. This past year flew by so fast, I swear I blinked and missed it.

Making Things Happen

My friend Brian has this new mantra: “Something amazing is about to happen.” I love it, but I’ve added my own twist: “Something amazing is about to happen because I’m making it happen.” Because let’s be real – life gets crazy unless we actually do something about it.

But here’s the thing – what you can actually get done looks WAY different depending on where you are in this wild mom journey.

Realistic Goals for Different Mom Seasons

The Newborn Days

If you’re reading this at 3 AM with a baby attached to your boob (hey there, welcome to the night shift!), your goals probably look nothing like mine. And that’s totally fine! During this phase, winning might mean:

• Getting dressed before your Amazon packages arrive
• Taking monthly photos of your baby (I can help with that!)
• Finding another mom friend who gets why you can’t make it anywhere on time
• Allowing others to help
• Have motherhood photos taken

The Mom Taxi Years

This is my life right now – I’m basically an unpaid Uber driver with snacks. My calendar is a hot mess, and some days I feel more like an air traffic controller than a photographer or mom. If you’re here too, try these goals:

• Finding one hour a week where nobody needs anything from you
• Teaching your kids to do their own laundry
• Planning family time that doesn’t involve watching someone’s practice
• Having one meal a week where you’re all at the table at the same time (and phone free!)
• Have motherhood photos taken

The Almost Empty Nest Phase

Some of my older friends are hitting this stage, talking about all the “free time” they’ll have when the kids leave. (Spoiler: You still won’t have enough hours in the day!) Goals might look like:

• Finally picking up that hobby you dropped when the kids were little
• Having dates with your spouse where you talk about something besides the kids
• Starting that business or project you’ve always dreamed about
• Taking dance, tennis or golf lessons cause you finally have time to try something new.
• Have motherhood photos taken

Making 2025 Your Year

When you’re planning out 2025 and making your own list of realistic goals, think about what season you’re in. Don’t compare your chapter one to someone else’s chapter twenty. Instead, ask yourself:

• What would make this year amazing for ME?
• What small steps can I take today?
• How can I enjoy this phase while still growing as a person as well as a mom?

Remember, something amazing is about to happen – because you’re going to make it happen, even if it’s just getting everyone fed and dressed today. Need help getting started? Check out this oldie but goodie blog with a list of goals that are great to consider no matter how old your kiddos!

What are you hoping to do this year? Drop it in the comments – I promise not to judge if your goal is just to drink your coffee while it’s still hot!