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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Baby, Life & Finances, Motherhood, Sponsored · June 20, 2019

How to Self Care by Creating a Routine You Enjoy

This post is sponsored by Baby Jogger, but all opinions expressed are 100% my own.

I remember laying in bed one night with Josh, 8 months pregnant with David, and thinking, “I’m going to miss this. I’m going to miss just him and me, the freedom, doing what we want when want.”

Don’t get me wrong, I was ecstatic for the baby we made to join our family, but every pregnant mama has those feelings before a new baby comes.

Around that time, I resolved that we weren’t going to let having a baby keep us from doing the things we loved. I mean, why should it have to be either/or? Why can’t we bring the ones we love with us to do the things we love?

Today, every time I open my phone, I’m reading about something to add to our self-care routine, friends deleting social media apps because they need a detox, videos of influencers crying because they’ve been masking mental health issues for far too long.

While, of course, none of these things are bad, it gives me the picture that we’re in a constant ebb and flow between overwhelm & burnout and self-indulgence. And, most of the time, each of those things is making up for too much of the other.

This, my friends, it not balance. It’s a roller coaster.

Instead of coming out of inconsistent periods of “self-love” and burnout, why don’t we all work a little harder to create a lifestyle that brings us joy that we can realistically maintain?

In this blog post, I want to give a few tips to do just that. Tips that will, hopefully, inspire you to have a productive and joy-filled routine that will leave you feeling accomplished and fulfilled at the end of the day.

First things first – I would be nowhere without my Baby Jogger City Mini GT2

Ever heard the phrase, “A parent is only as good as their stroller?” Me neither, but trust me – it’s a thing.

All of the things I’m about to list below and made doable by my Baby Jogger. This stroller is lightweight, compact, and moves effortlessly! Honestly, what’s more frustrating than taking babies and toddlers out to run errands? Not being able to ACTUALLY get around with them!

The baby jogger makes those problems melt away. It’s honestly the best stroller Josh and I have ever used. Not to mention the kids love it too and are cozy with their memory foam seat. I can check on them with the peekaboo window and store extra nicknacks or even my bag below so my hands are free. If you’re in the market for a new stroller, don’t make another move until you’ve checked out the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2.

1 | Do one thing that’s good for you

At first, the thought of adding something into your routine that’s good for you might feel overwhelming because it feels like “one more thing.” However, our entire concept here is about new habits and routines, not one-off quick fixes.

Doing something good for you might look like exercising for a half hour to an hour every morning or making adjustments to your eating habits. It could mean spending extra time in prayer or quietness, even when the laundry pile is begging you to put it away.  

By doing something that will help you improve each day, you’ll avoid feeling like you’re in a rut or losing sight of yourself.

2 | Do one thing that’s good for the kids

Mom-guilt get’s to all of us. There are days when I can feel so busy with work that, by the end of the day, I can barely think of anything that I did solely for the kids’ sake. Some days, it might be all I can do to simply keep the kids dressed and fed (and even that can come as a challenge).

But on the days when I’ve spent some time reading through a preschool workbook with David for 10 minutes or singing songs with Evy before bed, or maybe even got them to eat a few carrots, those are the days when I feel like I’ve done something good for them. Something that will help them grow into the adults that Josh and I hope they become some day.

3 | Do one thing that’s fun for you

Back when the kids were younger and I was home with them full time, our routine looked like this:

  • Breakfast
  • Gym
  • Drive-through coffee stand
  • Lunch
  • Downtime/naptime at home
  • Playground/walk with the kids.
  • Afternoon at home or time to run errands
  • Cook dinner
  • Dad’s home!

Now, that drive-through coffee stand might seem like a weird minor detail to include, but back then to me, it was HUGE. We can debate whether my caffein addiction is healthy or not, but that was my way of rewarding myself for getting a toddler and a baby fed and out the door and getting my butt to the gym. And if our morning was productive, chances are it would set the momentum for the rest of the day as well.

Although it was a huge challenge learning how to get both kids out the door in the morning, I eventually began to love our routine and really felt as though I was thriving in it.

Today, I work full time from home as well as through my blog and Instagram. Needless to say our routine looks fairly different. However, we’re great at getting out in the afternoons and going on pretty walks here in town.

Whatever your routine looks like, make sure there are things in there that you really enjoy.

4 | Do one thing that’s fun for the kids

In the routine I mentioned above, I talked about going to the park and on walks a lot. This was something I did for the kids and for me. Obviously, the kids love getting out and being active, but I also love knowing that I made that happen for them.

For you, doing something for the kids might not mean getting them out of the house, but I do think that if couped up in the house for too long, kids turn into destructive little puppies that really just need to get some energy out. When Josh or I put the extra effort into giving them something fun to do, we all end up feeling way more amiable

5 | Plan for downtime

I get it. Taking a nap every day while the kids nap or are in school isn’t always realistic. But even if it’s a half hour in the morning or an hour in the evening, try to have a small amount of time each day where you let go of expectations for yourself.

Same goes for the kids. Kids need downtime (that’s not replaced with screens) in order to practice creativity or simply relax. Kids can get overwhelmed too and a set time where there’s nothing planned can do a lot of good in their routine.

6 | Maintain an aesthetic you enjoy

Raise your hand if you’ve ever angry-cleaned 🙋. I have too. It’s in those moments when I’m really seeing just how much my environment affects my mood.

It probably took me way too long to realize that I can create for myself an aesthetic that’s tranquil, inspiring, and easy to maintain. It really just takes a little planning and then a few minutes of maintenance each day. Not to mention, as the kids get older, they become a lot more able to clean up after themselves 🙌

Have you worked towards creating a routine that you love? How have you seen it bring balance and joy to your life, even in the midst of running errands, transporting kids, or making it to the gym?

Shop the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2

In: Baby, Life & Finances, Motherhood, Sponsored · Tagged: baby jogger, jogger, motherhood, self care, stroller

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How to Balance Life as a Work From Home Mom!
Do you ever feel like your fun side died? Well, maybe not died. You hope it’s still in there somewhere, it just hasn’t made an appearance in… a while. From one recovering party pooper to another, we’re here to tell you, it’s ok. I mean, someone has to have the hard job of saying, “No.” Not to mention the fact that it’s hard to be fun when you’re running on the fumes of your last caffein fix. We understand, really. That’s why we made this list that we think might be able to help.How To Be a More Fun Mom

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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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  • So I know the title of this post says, “What men want most in a wife,” but to be more realistic, this is about what men need most in a wife. Like men, there are a lot of things that we (women) would really like in a husband. Like, it’d be a huge plus if he looked like Chris Hemsworth. But that’s not really what we need in order to have a positive relationship with our spouse. If we married him, we probably think he’s pretty cute, anyway. Take a look at these 5 things a man really needs in a wife, and if you can think of anything else, share your thoughts in the comments below! 5 Things men want most in a wife
  • Do you ever wish that sometimes you could just write a long list to your spouse of all the things he does that drive you insane?? I have done this. 8 of the Worst Marriage Habits
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  • the purpose of these is to learn a little more than you knew before. Take time to think about the answers to these and how they may relate to character and personality. You may learn a thing or two you didn’t know before! 20 Fun questions that will tell you more about your significant other

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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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