Resolutions Revealed

The CPO Team, Tracy, Helen, and Cara, share their 2009 New Year's Resolutions

Tracy Keleher

CPO's Founder and Editorial Director

Looking back on my past New Year’s Resolutions has taught me this: I eventually do end up with successful results, although not necessarily on January 1st. Actually, NEVER on January 1st! Regardless, I’m a firm believer that setting goals for yourself is never a bad thing, they serve as reminders, and eventually will be attained. Making change is a process; don’t throw in the towel just because it doesn’t happen exactly when you want it to. I quit smoking (many years ago) and have recently lost a considerable amount of weight, both huge accomplishments, of which I’m very proud.

This year I’m looking forward to focusing on simplifying our lives, concentrating on the less is more principle. I’m especially pleased because my husband is on board with this too… it’s something we’re working on together. For starters, we’re going to buy less stuff, being totally conscious of what we bring into our home. We’re going to work toward getting rid of expendable items, keeping only things we use and love. Wish me luck, and feel free to follow my progress on my blog!

Cara Miller

CPO's Community Producer

Most years I have picked a New Year’s Resolution that has involved taking something that I like away from myself. Last year's resolution was giving up my beloved Coca Cola. I know it's not the greatest thing to be drinking, but I enjoy it. I gave it up for a few weeks, then had a drink, and ended up consuming more than ever! This year, instead of setting myself up for failure, I'm going to continue a moderate consumption of this brown liquidy treat!

This year’s resolution is much more positive and involves something that will make me happy as well as the rest of the family - having a clean house! When my house is messy and cluttered, so is my mind. This is definitely not a good fit when you work from home! So this past month off, we've been working together as a family to start some good habits around the house; making our beds when we first get up, hanging up our jackets and keys as soon as we get home and putting our dishes right into the dishwasher after meals and using many of the tips in the Clutter Control Club. Not only will this benefit me personally but also teach the kids the benefits of the clutter free home and life! Drop by and visit my blog, Tales from a "GREEN" Minivan.

Helen Williams

CPO's Senior Producer

One of my favourite quotes is, “A goal without a plan is just a dream” and I think so many of us start the new year off with a goal in mind but few have a plan to get us to that goal. So with that in mind, 2009 is my year to find balance in my life. As a work from home mom I have struggled to find a balance between work, family, life and ME; work almost always wins out because it is always there.

This year I PLAN to say NO to the things that eat up my time and bring little joy to my life. I PLAN to listen to the year-long MomTalk series on work at home moms knowing I can learn so much from these amazing ladies who will be sharing their stories. And finally I PLAN to use my day planner in a way that carves out time for work, family, the kids, my husband and ME. How’s that for a plan! Wish me luck and follow along as I share my journal to a more balanced life on my blog, The Balancing Act.