At the beginning of the year, everyone talks about At the beginning of the year, everyone talks about setting goals. Honestly, setting goals is easy. You can set any goal you want to. You can write it in a journal, keep it to yourself, or even tell your friends.

But how often do we actually set a plan with smaller, short team goals to build upon while reaching our end-of-year goal? At the end of the year, we typically think back on whether or not we met the goal we set at the beginning, and the result just is what it is.

Instead, I want to help you learn how to make a plan to *realistically* reach the goals you set at the beginning of the year.

✍️ Quantify your goals (ie. I want to write X blog posts this year, I want to make $X this year, I want to make 3 new friends this year, I want to be able to lift X lbs this year).

✍️ Now that you've quantified your goals for the year, break that number down by the month (if you want to make $12,000 for your small business by the end of the year, you'll need to make $1000 each month. You can also break this down further into smaller, weekly goals).

✍️ Now, outline the steps you'll take on a weekly basis to reach your monthly goal.

✍️ Also note some hindrances you think you might face and how you plan to navigate them.

✍️ Revisit your goals on a weekly and monthly basis and consistently track if you're meeting your goals, exceeding them, or if you need to change your strategy in order to hit your mark.

✍️ Keep a journal of your wins and woes - it's important to recognize what's working well and mistakes that you can learn from!

These are all things I've learned in my work as a content marketing manager at a growing startup where measuring growth is *extremely* important. 

It may seem intimidating, but I've found that being organized in this way actually helps to clear my head and provide clarity on what I should prioritize and how I can realistically reach lofty goals.

Love you guys and hope this helps!
3 things I did this week to feel *better*: 1. I p 3 things I did this week to feel *better*:

1. I put the scale away. Don't get me wrong, I'm still working out regularly and watching my portions and sugar intake, but I'm not letting myself feel discouraged in the midst of building healthy habits. It's just not helpful and it's not about the number anyway.

2. Josh and I organized and decluttered the house. Is it weird that this really improves my mood while working from home??

3. I responded (ok tried to) to emails/texts faster. I'm the type who, if I don't know the answer or the best way to respond, I'll let it sit for a while and mildly stress me out until it's either too awkward to respond or I respond way late. I'm working on just responding quickly, even if it's imperfect. 

Do you struggle with any of these things?? 

Ps this is my favorite new @acta.wear top! Use my code CHELSEA20 for 20% off 👏
What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty bad when it comes to picking up books but I love me a good audio book! It feels extra productive when I listen because it's automatic multi tasking 😄 I'm currently reading 1 Samuel, Atomic Habits, and Managing Up ☝️

Ps. Swipe for Chelsea Damon presets before and after! Grab the presets individually or in a pack at chelseadamonpresets.com (🔗 in bio).
#ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intention #ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intentional decision making and living joyfully in the in between moments. #ad ONE Bars give me the chance to fill up on something I know is a good choice, with only 1g of sugar and 20g (!!) of protein! Psst, the Blueberry Cobbler is my favorite 😋 Stock up on all the delicious ONE Bar flavors!

 https://lnk2.io/w97K9YV #TasteONEtoBelieveONE #YouveFoundTheOne @ONE1Brands #onebar
Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Th Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Then swipe ↩️ to get a look at the handsomest kid I know!
I've never been a huge fan of new years resolution I've never been a huge fan of new years resolutions. My thinking has typically been, "If you want to change for the better, just start." But I will say, this year I want to do better at always seeing the bright side and the opportunity - of taking responsibility. I have a tendency to play the victim when things don't go my way or if my goals are more difficult than I expected. This year, I want to joyfully and patiently work towards my goals as well as enjoy the moments of rest in between. I also want to give more of myself and my resources: to my family, to our church family, and to those in need. 

What's a goal of yours for 2021?

"She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.  She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.  She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.  She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.  She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.  She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.  She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet."

Proverbs 31:15‭-‬21 ESV
So we're past the longest night of winter, that me So we're past the longest night of winter, that means it's almost spring right??
I will never be a cold weather person 🥶
Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas ever Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas everyone!!
It started when we were younger and you were mine It started when we were younger and you were mine
MY BABY 
😭
And it's now stuck in your head you're welcome 🤗
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Family, Life & Finances, Marriage, Outdoors · November 6, 2015

10 Things to do While Unplugged

Do you ever sometimes get sick of being on your phone? Just me? I think we’ve been trained like Pavlov’s dogs to begin salivating at the sound of our ring tone. There’s sometimes when I get so tired of hearing it that I turn it on silent, turn off the data and wifi, leave it in my purse and walk away. A few hours later I then apologize to my sister who was locked outside and tried calling 3 times. I think technology is awesome and trust me, I wouldn’t know my way to walmart without my phone’s GPS, but sometimes technology just makes my head hurt.

Do you ever sometimes get sick of being on your phone? Just me? I think we’ve been trained like Pavlov’s dogs to begin salivating at the sound of our ring tone. There’s sometimes when I get so tired of hearing it that I turn it on silent, turn off the data and wifi, leave it in my purse and walk away. A few hours later I then apologize to my sister who was locked outside and tried calling 3 times. I think technology is awesome and trust me, I wouldn’t know my way to walmart without my phone’s GPS, but sometimes technology just makes my head hurt.

If you ever feel the same way, take a look at some of these ideas of things to do that take a few steps away from technology:

Go on a walk

Or go to the gym. A couple who works out together… is probably happier because they’ve awakened their endorphins.

Visit the local dog park

I never regret taking our dog out on a walk or to the dog park. He has a blast with the other pups and our son loves seeing all the other puppies running after the same ball.

If you don’t have a pet, go window shopping at a pet store (not for the faint of heart).

Play a board game or card game.

Invite over some pals and hang out! Get some snacks and let the fun begin!

Bake a yummy dessert

Try this easy pastry, or these healthy cookies!

Play a silly drawing game together

Sometimes Josh and I will play a game when we’re bored where I will draw a few lines (straight, squiggly, pointy, etc.) on a piece of paper and then hand it over to him. Then, he has to take my nonsensical lines and make a picture out of it. No drawing skills necessary here! Just a little bit of an imagination.

Do either of you play an instrument?

Play a couple songs you know and sing along together. I’ll never forget the first time my husband sang to me. I knew right then that we would get married some day.

Decide to improve something around the house!

Ever wanted to make those cute DIY shelves on pinterest? Or plant some flowers in front of the porch? Take a trip to a hardware or home goods store and start creating! You two can be proud of what you made together!

Find a book that you both find interesting and take time reading out loud together.

This can be so relaxing and fun snuggled together with blankets and tea.

Play this game of Random Questions To Ask Your Significant Other When You’re Extremely Bored.

Sit outside together.

Whether you have a yard, balcony, front steps. My favorite time to sit outside with Josh is when the sun is setting. Colorful skies can help inspire colorful conversation.
Tell me your own ideas in the comments below!

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In: Family, Life & Finances, Marriage, Outdoors · Tagged: activities, bored, couples, fun, marriage, quality time, technology, things to do, unplug, unplugged, unplugging

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Comments

  1. Jessie says

    November 7, 2015 at 12:36 pm

    Great ideas, thank you — I will keep them in my mind the next time I’m stressed out!

    Reply
  2. Hil says

    November 7, 2015 at 2:10 pm

    Oh yes! Sitting outside together is great. Peaceful relaxing, chatting and enjoying the evening air. Great ideas.

    Reply
  3. dixya @ food, pleasure, and health says

    November 7, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    i think going on a walk without a phone is great way to unplug and actually be present in the moment. so important to practice this more often.

    Reply
  4. sara strand says

    November 7, 2015 at 4:12 pm

    I told my husband that this summer we are going to get outdoors more. This year was tricky with a newborn and figuring out her schedule, our exhaustion, and Matt’s work schedule. But this year? This year we are going to get outside and enjoy it.

    Reply
  5. Kim says

    November 7, 2015 at 6:59 pm

    I am going to go bake something after I finish commenting here:) Great, easy ideas to unplug.

    Reply
  6. Sara says

    November 7, 2015 at 8:44 pm

    Great ideas! I’m always looking for a time when I can finally unplug…

    Reply
  7. Chrissy says

    November 8, 2015 at 9:53 am

    I try not to grab my phone too often when I’m at home, because I can get so much done when unplugged. It distracts too much and there are so many other things that need to be done or that I want to do, like knitting f.e. Great tips up there! Happy Sunday

    Reply
  8. Chelsea says

    November 8, 2015 at 5:31 pm

    I would love to eventually do a whole day of unplugging although I really don’t think I could do it :/ As sad as that sounds..

    Reply
  9. Katie says

    November 8, 2015 at 7:25 pm

    Great list! I definitely need to unplug more 🙂

    Reply
  10. Michelle frost says

    November 8, 2015 at 9:50 pm

    Great list! We play that kind of “random questions” game with the whole family as well and everyone loves it – even the kids who have a rough time without their phones get fully into it! 🙂

    Reply
  11. Rosalyn O. says

    November 9, 2015 at 2:35 am

    Great list!! I like baking and practicing a new language! Thanks for sharing this :))

    Reply
  12. Shann Eva says

    November 9, 2015 at 2:36 am

    Yes! I get so sick of being on my phone and/or being on the computer. I just need a break sometimes. Great suggestions!

    Reply
  13. Jessica says

    November 9, 2015 at 11:34 am

    Aw I love these ideas! Perfect for the hubbs and I.

    Reply
  14. Charlotte says

    November 18, 2015 at 6:48 pm

    I love this so much. I’m trying to take active measures to unplug much more often and though I’m not a big TV person, my bf is HUGE. To the point where it’s almost led to really stupid arguments around here. I just don’t like unwinding with noise at the end of the day. That said, there are so many OTHER things that we could be doing aside from sitting and vegging out in front of the box. Thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply
  15. mash says

    November 18, 2015 at 8:01 pm

    Great post! I love to listen to music and go on a walk!

    Mash | http://www.sarmash.com

    Reply
  16. Lindsey says

    November 18, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    Great ideas! I spend WAY too much time plugged in, especially now that I’m trying to turn my blog into a part-time business. These are very helpful reminders.

    Reply
  17. Jenny says

    November 19, 2015 at 2:16 am

    These are all great ideas.
    I need to keep these in mind.

    xoxo, Jenny

    Reply
  18. Britany Schulz says

    November 19, 2015 at 2:01 pm

    Being unplugged is one of the BEST things ever:)

    Reply
  19. Branson says

    November 20, 2015 at 3:29 pm

    This is a great list!! I definitely get tired of my phone in a BIG way. Blessing and a burden, ya know?

    Reply
  20. Rebecca says

    December 4, 2015 at 7:10 pm

    Your ideas sound more relaxing than checking emails and status updates. I’m going to have to try these when and if we unplug!

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. 20 MORE random questions to ask your significant other when you're extremely bored... - Living the Sweet Wife says:
    March 13, 2016 at 1:57 am

    […] words to each other whether it’s out of boredom or too much technology (check my this post on what to do when you unplug), use these questions to get the conversation moving again and to learn more about your loved one […]

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Hi! I'm Chelsea and we're the Damon's. We spent the last two years in WA state paying off student loans and just bought our first house in SC! I love a smooth black coffee, Josh's first love is the Seattle Sounders. Our kids are huge dorks and constantly make us laugh and we all love spending as much time outside as possible.

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At the beginning of the year, everyone talks about At the beginning of the year, everyone talks about setting goals. Honestly, setting goals is easy. You can set any goal you want to. You can write it in a journal, keep it to yourself, or even tell your friends.

But how often do we actually set a plan with smaller, short team goals to build upon while reaching our end-of-year goal? At the end of the year, we typically think back on whether or not we met the goal we set at the beginning, and the result just is what it is.

Instead, I want to help you learn how to make a plan to *realistically* reach the goals you set at the beginning of the year.

✍️ Quantify your goals (ie. I want to write X blog posts this year, I want to make $X this year, I want to make 3 new friends this year, I want to be able to lift X lbs this year).

✍️ Now that you've quantified your goals for the year, break that number down by the month (if you want to make $12,000 for your small business by the end of the year, you'll need to make $1000 each month. You can also break this down further into smaller, weekly goals).

✍️ Now, outline the steps you'll take on a weekly basis to reach your monthly goal.

✍️ Also note some hindrances you think you might face and how you plan to navigate them.

✍️ Revisit your goals on a weekly and monthly basis and consistently track if you're meeting your goals, exceeding them, or if you need to change your strategy in order to hit your mark.

✍️ Keep a journal of your wins and woes - it's important to recognize what's working well and mistakes that you can learn from!

These are all things I've learned in my work as a content marketing manager at a growing startup where measuring growth is *extremely* important. 

It may seem intimidating, but I've found that being organized in this way actually helps to clear my head and provide clarity on what I should prioritize and how I can realistically reach lofty goals.

Love you guys and hope this helps!
3 things I did this week to feel *better*: 1. I p 3 things I did this week to feel *better*:

1. I put the scale away. Don't get me wrong, I'm still working out regularly and watching my portions and sugar intake, but I'm not letting myself feel discouraged in the midst of building healthy habits. It's just not helpful and it's not about the number anyway.

2. Josh and I organized and decluttered the house. Is it weird that this really improves my mood while working from home??

3. I responded (ok tried to) to emails/texts faster. I'm the type who, if I don't know the answer or the best way to respond, I'll let it sit for a while and mildly stress me out until it's either too awkward to respond or I respond way late. I'm working on just responding quickly, even if it's imperfect. 

Do you struggle with any of these things?? 

Ps this is my favorite new @acta.wear top! Use my code CHELSEA20 for 20% off 👏
What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty bad when it comes to picking up books but I love me a good audio book! It feels extra productive when I listen because it's automatic multi tasking 😄 I'm currently reading 1 Samuel, Atomic Habits, and Managing Up ☝️

Ps. Swipe for Chelsea Damon presets before and after! Grab the presets individually or in a pack at chelseadamonpresets.com (🔗 in bio).
#ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intention #ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intentional decision making and living joyfully in the in between moments. #ad ONE Bars give me the chance to fill up on something I know is a good choice, with only 1g of sugar and 20g (!!) of protein! Psst, the Blueberry Cobbler is my favorite 😋 Stock up on all the delicious ONE Bar flavors!

 https://lnk2.io/w97K9YV #TasteONEtoBelieveONE #YouveFoundTheOne @ONE1Brands #onebar

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At the beginning of the year, everyone talks about At the beginning of the year, everyone talks about setting goals. Honestly, setting goals is easy. You can set any goal you want to. You can write it in a journal, keep it to yourself, or even tell your friends.

But how often do we actually set a plan with smaller, short team goals to build upon while reaching our end-of-year goal? At the end of the year, we typically think back on whether or not we met the goal we set at the beginning, and the result just is what it is.

Instead, I want to help you learn how to make a plan to *realistically* reach the goals you set at the beginning of the year.

✍️ Quantify your goals (ie. I want to write X blog posts this year, I want to make $X this year, I want to make 3 new friends this year, I want to be able to lift X lbs this year).

✍️ Now that you've quantified your goals for the year, break that number down by the month (if you want to make $12,000 for your small business by the end of the year, you'll need to make $1000 each month. You can also break this down further into smaller, weekly goals).

✍️ Now, outline the steps you'll take on a weekly basis to reach your monthly goal.

✍️ Also note some hindrances you think you might face and how you plan to navigate them.

✍️ Revisit your goals on a weekly and monthly basis and consistently track if you're meeting your goals, exceeding them, or if you need to change your strategy in order to hit your mark.

✍️ Keep a journal of your wins and woes - it's important to recognize what's working well and mistakes that you can learn from!

These are all things I've learned in my work as a content marketing manager at a growing startup where measuring growth is *extremely* important. 

It may seem intimidating, but I've found that being organized in this way actually helps to clear my head and provide clarity on what I should prioritize and how I can realistically reach lofty goals.

Love you guys and hope this helps!
3 things I did this week to feel *better*: 1. I p 3 things I did this week to feel *better*:

1. I put the scale away. Don't get me wrong, I'm still working out regularly and watching my portions and sugar intake, but I'm not letting myself feel discouraged in the midst of building healthy habits. It's just not helpful and it's not about the number anyway.

2. Josh and I organized and decluttered the house. Is it weird that this really improves my mood while working from home??

3. I responded (ok tried to) to emails/texts faster. I'm the type who, if I don't know the answer or the best way to respond, I'll let it sit for a while and mildly stress me out until it's either too awkward to respond or I respond way late. I'm working on just responding quickly, even if it's imperfect. 

Do you struggle with any of these things?? 

Ps this is my favorite new @acta.wear top! Use my code CHELSEA20 for 20% off 👏
What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty bad when it comes to picking up books but I love me a good audio book! It feels extra productive when I listen because it's automatic multi tasking 😄 I'm currently reading 1 Samuel, Atomic Habits, and Managing Up ☝️

Ps. Swipe for Chelsea Damon presets before and after! Grab the presets individually or in a pack at chelseadamonpresets.com (🔗 in bio).
#ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intention #ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intentional decision making and living joyfully in the in between moments. #ad ONE Bars give me the chance to fill up on something I know is a good choice, with only 1g of sugar and 20g (!!) of protein! Psst, the Blueberry Cobbler is my favorite 😋 Stock up on all the delicious ONE Bar flavors!

 https://lnk2.io/w97K9YV #TasteONEtoBelieveONE #YouveFoundTheOne @ONE1Brands #onebar
Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Th Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Then swipe ↩️ to get a look at the handsomest kid I know!
I've never been a huge fan of new years resolution I've never been a huge fan of new years resolutions. My thinking has typically been, "If you want to change for the better, just start." But I will say, this year I want to do better at always seeing the bright side and the opportunity - of taking responsibility. I have a tendency to play the victim when things don't go my way or if my goals are more difficult than I expected. This year, I want to joyfully and patiently work towards my goals as well as enjoy the moments of rest in between. I also want to give more of myself and my resources: to my family, to our church family, and to those in need. 

What's a goal of yours for 2021?

"She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.  She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.  She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.  She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.  She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.  She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.  She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet."

Proverbs 31:15‭-‬21 ESV
So we're past the longest night of winter, that me So we're past the longest night of winter, that means it's almost spring right??
I will never be a cold weather person 🥶
Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas ever Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas everyone!!
It started when we were younger and you were mine It started when we were younger and you were mine
MY BABY 
😭
And it's now stuck in your head you're welcome 🤗
How often do you let your kids in to what it's lik How often do you let your kids in to what it's like to manage life as an adult? To work, budget, to eat healthy not because you have to but because you want to, to give to others, to spend time in the word, to forgive even when we don't feel like it...

I think it's so important to model and help our kids see the every day choices that are not always easy but make a huge difference in the long run. Ie. eating out less = more $$ in the bank to buy meals for the homeless or to bring a child in who need a home. Josh and I don't always feel like cooking, but it's easier when we remember we're working towards greater things ❤️

In a world of instant gratification, what are we teaching our kids to work and wait for?

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