Set Intentional Goals for 2023: Review 2022’s Progress & Plan Your Best Year Yet

Welcome to one of the most opportune times of the year—the perfect moment to reflect on the past year’s journey, celebrate our achievements, and thoughtfully plan for the next 12 months. Join me as we look back at the highlights and lessons of 2022 and set simple, yet impactful, goals for 2023, steering us towards a more intentional and fulfilling homemade life.

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The week between Christmas and New Year’s often feels like a natural pause button. It’s a special window for introspection, a time when the festive rush subsides, and we can truly engage in meaningful reflection and planning. While reviewing our progress and setting new intentions can happen any time of the year, this particular period holds a unique charm, inviting us to contemplate our path and chart our future course. It’s an ideal opportunity to gather our thoughts, learn from experiences, and consciously decide what we want to bring into existence in the coming year.

Many people express apprehension about setting goals, fearing the disappointment of not achieving them. This concern is entirely understandable. Indeed, as you’ll soon see, I don’t always accomplish every single goal I set each year. However, my perspective on goal setting transformed when I realized it’s not solely about reaching an arbitrary target, but about fostering continuous forward progress in every aspect of life. This shift in mindset ignited my excitement for this annual evaluation—a chance to truly assess, learn, and press on with renewed purpose. Embracing the journey, rather than fixating solely on the destination, allows for greater resilience and sustained motivation.

Before adopting this intentional approach, it was challenging to recall what significant events had even transpired in the previous year. Beyond the daily routines of providing food and clean clothes, what meaningful strides had my family and I made, both collectively and personally? Setting simple, focused goals across areas I deeply care about provides a tangible record. It allows me to celebrate the victories, big or small, and to methodically move the “still working on” items forward, transforming aspirations into concrete steps. This structured reflection provides clarity, reinforces positive habits, and ensures we are consistently moving towards our desired life.

This proactive approach is what I define as living intentionally with our precious time.

Consider this: if family vacations aren’t deliberately planned, they often remain mere wishes. They won’t magically materialize. If cultivating a reading habit is important to you, then setting a specific, achievable goal to read and learn will ensure it happens, perhaps by dedicating a consistent time each day. Saving money for future security doesn’t occur by accident; a clear monetary goal serves as a powerful motivator, prompting us to reconsider impulse purchases like that daily mocha, and instead prioritize our financial well-being. The principle applies across the board, from personal development to home projects and financial stability. So, let’s embrace intentionality, critically examine how the past year unfolded, and strategically outline what we aim to achieve in 2023, building a life that truly reflects our values and dreams.

2022 Year in Review: Celebrating Progress and Learning Lessons

Reflecting on the past year is a crucial step in setting meaningful goals for the future. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge successes, identify areas for improvement, and understand what truly matters. This annual review helps us appreciate how far we’ve come and provides invaluable data for future planning. I personally use the “year in review” page from my Flexible Planner, which provides a structured way to capture thoughts and milestones. However, any notebook, journal, or even a simple piece of paper will suffice. The key is to engage in the reflective process, allowing yourself time to genuinely process the year’s events.

You can use guiding questions to facilitate your review and ensure comprehensive reflection: What were the most memorable moments, both big and small? What challenges did you encounter, and how did you overcome them? Which goals did you accomplish, and which are still in progress? What new skills or knowledge did you acquire? What habits or activities should you continue, and which should you consider letting go of? This thoughtful examination forms the robust foundation for effective goal setting, enabling you to build upon strengths and strategically address weaknesses.

Highlights from 2022: A Quarter-by-Quarter Journey of Growth and Adventure

January-March: Embracing DIY and Documenting History

• My Office Makeover: What began as an ambitious one-month project playfully stretched into three. This journey involved discovering (and dealing with the absence of!) intact wood under the wallboard, a true test of DIY perseverance and adaptability. The eventual addition of this custom DIY shelf for my vintage gym locker baskets brought a sense of perfect completion, proving that sometimes, the best things take a little extra time and creative problem-solving.
• Farmhouse Before and After Videos: The early months of the year were dedicated to a significant undertaking: compiling comprehensive before and after videos and posts for each room on the first floor of our cherished 1900 farmhouse. This extensive work was incredibly eye-opening, allowing us to fully appreciate the vast amount we accomplished primarily through our own DIY skills and dedication, transforming a historic property into a beloved home.

April-May: Irish Adventures and Spring Preparations

• Ireland: April was a flurry of activity, preparing for a magnificent three-week journey that seamlessly blended work and personal life. Despite a long, cold, and wet spring that delayed seedling planting, everything fortunately worked out in the end, highlighting nature’s unpredictable timing. We embarked on our adventure at the close of April, spending most of May immersed in the breathtaking beauty of Ireland. We traveled extensively, enjoyed the warmth of my cousin’s wife’s Irish family, explored countless castles (truly heart-stirring experiences!), and felt immensely blessed by the genuinely lovely people we encountered. It was an unforgettable joy and a testament to the power of planned experiences and cultural connection.

June-July: Outdoor Projects, Family Time, and Health Challenges

• Commencing Our Major Outdoor Cement Project: This period marked the challenging initiation of replacing crumbling, poorly laid cement areas around our home. The most substantial undertaking was the retaining wall connecting the driveway to the sunken garden. It proved to be a protracted process due to exorbitant initial bids. Thankfully, a neighbor with equipment graciously assisted in removing the old cement, and my stepfather later stepped in to help us meticulously prepare and lay the new sections – a significant project that would unfold over months, showcasing the value of community and family support in large endeavors.
• Kayaking & Paddle Boarding: We enjoyed a wonderful break kayaking and paddle boarding at a stunning Cascades lake with our family. This provided a beautiful start to Oregon’s glorious summer, emphasizing the importance of balancing hard work with rejuvenating outdoor activities and quality family time in nature.
• Health Issues: The summer months brought unexpected health challenges for both Brian and my mom, requiring a significant portion of our time and energy. Scheduled elective surgeries unfortunately morphed into new complications and extended recovery periods. I am profoundly grateful that both of them are now back to full health and have made complete recoveries. 💜 This period underscored the preciousness of health, the resilience of the human spirit, and the strength of family support during trying times.

August-September: Renovation Documentation and Coastal Escapes

• Farmhouse Renovation Page Consolidation: I dedicated time to compiling all the individual farmhouse renovation posts onto a single, comprehensive renovation page. This central hub now allows visitors to easily trace the history of our 1900 farmhouse, from its initial state to the remarkable three years of progress, complete with before and after videos of the downstairs. This was a massive organizational project that provides immense value for anyone interested in home restoration.
• Coastal Lake Kayaking Adventure: We enjoyed another memorable kayaking trip at a coastal lake, a cherished spot where Brian’s family has owned a cottage since the 1940s. A particular highlight was that our dog, Jynx, finally became comfortable joining me on the water, thanks to her new water vest! It was a joyful moment seeing her embrace the adventure, adding another layer of family fun.
• Otter Rock Surf Trip: We embarked on a fun surf trip to Otter Rock, staying in a charming 70s-themed A-frame. Pictured above is my daughter and me on the cliff overlooking the ocean—in an astonishing 76-degree weather at the end of September! This unexpected warmth added an extra layer of enjoyment to our coastal getaway, reminding us of Oregon’s diverse beauty and the simple pleasures of nature.

October: Major Outdoor Transformations

• Cement Landscaping and Gravel Project Completion: After a four-month endeavor, our ambitious cement landscaping and gravel project finally reached completion! We now have beautifully constructed steps leading down into the sunken garden, as well as a defined path and retaining wall from the driveway to the back door. The old wood chip paths in the garden were replaced with gravel, creating a seamless and safer transition into the new fire pit area, significantly enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
• New Fire Pit Area: As you can observe in the photo above, the large designated area for chairs and a fire pit is now complete. Photos of this exciting finished space, perfect for outdoor gatherings and relaxation, will be shared very soon! This transformation significantly enhances our outdoor living experience, providing a wonderful space for making memories.

November-December: Tropical Escapes and Festive Traditions

• Hawaii: We rounded out the year with a truly wonderful trip to Hawaii, sharing a condo on a golf course with breathtaking ocean views alongside my parents. It was an idyllic escape, filled with warm temperatures, thrilling snorkeling adventures with sea turtles, savoring delicious local cuisine, and even the unique experience of working with an incredible view. This trip provided much-needed relaxation and precious family time, creating unforgettable memories.
• Holiday Family Time: The holiday season this year felt exceptionally sweet, filled with cherished moments with family. My kitchen was a hub of activity, producing multiple chocolate chip walnut pies, batches of the best cinnamon rolls, an array of festive Christmas cookies, and many other homemade delights. These culinary creations added an extra layer of warmth and tradition to our celebrations, embodying the spirit of a homemade life.
• Planner and Calendar Release: The highly anticipated 2023 Flexible Planner was released, along with our popular free 12-month printable calendar, which this year features beautiful seasonal fruits. These tools are designed to help you stay organized and inspired throughout the year, supporting your own journey towards intentional living and goal achievement.

2022 Goals Recap: Lessons Learned and Forward Momentum

Reviewing our past goals is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about understanding our patterns, celebrating what went well, and identifying areas for growth. This honest evaluation provides critical insights that inform and strengthen our future aspirations. Here’s a brief look at how our 2022 goals unfolded, offering valuable lessons for the path ahead:

Personal Goals: I am delighted to report that I met all of these personal goals! A significant factor in this success was that many were either already established habits or were in the early stages of becoming routine. This highlights a key lesson: it’s perfectly acceptable, and often strategic, to set goals that build upon existing positive behaviors or that you simply wish to continue nurturing and growing. Consistency and building momentum are powerful allies in personal development, reinforcing positive cycles rather than always starting from scratch.

Home/Financial Goals: Approximately half of these goals were successfully checked off, demonstrating progress in various areas. However, the most significant project I had hoped to complete – the upstairs bathroom renovation – regrettably did not materialize. This outcome immediately informs one of our top priorities for 2023, illustrating how unmet goals from one year can strategically shape the next. It’s a clear example of iterative planning, where challenges become catalysts for renewed focus and re-prioritization. This ongoing process of adjustment is crucial for large, complex projects.

Business Goals: This was the area where I faced the most challenges and saw less progress than desired, offering some of the most profound lessons. I didn’t launch any major new products, though I did successfully add a few smaller ebooks to the shop and conducted a flash sale, which were positive steps in product diversification. My bookkeeping goal, however, was a miserable failure, and I am currently experiencing the consequences of that oversight at year-end. This clearly indicates that tracking financial numbers isn’t naturally my strong suit, making it a critical focus (#1 in this area!) for the upcoming year. Despite these challenges, I am proud to have created new recipes that I love, strengthened my email communications, and produced the comprehensive before and after videos and renovation page for the farmhouse first floor that I mentioned earlier. Even in areas of struggle, there’s always progress to acknowledge, celebrate, and crucially, to learn from for improved future strategies.

Charting Your Course: Simple and Achievable Goals for 2023

As we transition into 2023, we continue to anchor our annual objectives to our broader five-year goals. This overarching vision provides a comprehensive framework for the 12 specific goals I’ve chosen, divided across three core areas: Personal, Home/Financial, and Business. These goals represent a balanced mix of ongoing processes, exciting new aspirations, and essential tasks that simply must get done (yes, that second bathroom!). This blend ensures both continuity and fresh challenges, keeping the journey engaging and productive.

Having engaged in this annual goal-setting practice for 13 years now (you can explore our previous annual goals here), this structured approach feels both familiar and entirely achievable to me. The long-term perspective helps temper immediate pressures and fosters patience. However, the beauty of goal setting is its inherent adaptability. You might choose to focus on just one goal per area, or even a single overarching goal that resonates most with you, especially if you are new to the practice. The fundamental principle remains: deliberately decide what you want to achieve, then take intentional, consistent steps toward bringing that vision to fruition. Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.

Personal Goals: Nurturing Growth and Well-being for a Fulfilling Life

1. Consistent Gratitude Journaling: I aim to diligently continue with my Line a Day Journal, placing a strong emphasis on cultivating gratitude daily. What excites me most this year is the ability to look back and instantly see my activities and thoughts from the previous year, offering invaluable perspective and a deeper appreciation for life’s journey. This practice fosters mindfulness and a positive outlook.
2. Intentional Morning Reading & Reflection: My goal is to consistently read or listen to a Christian living book each morning, meticulously documenting my thoughts in my Book Journal. While this practice is already underway, I want to be more intentional by proactively selecting and lining up the next book before completing the current one, ensuring uninterrupted spiritual and personal growth. This commitment supports continuous learning and spiritual nourishment.
3. Sustained Physical Activity: This goal focuses on maintaining my current healthy habits: committing to workouts three times a week, taking daily walks whenever weather permits, and ensuring I move around every 45 minutes to an hour throughout the day. While these are largely ingrained habits, keeping them as an explicit goal serves as a vital reminder not to let consistency slide, reinforcing the importance of self-care and long-term health.
4. Optimize Food Budget to $125/week: This is a brand new and timely goal, directly addressing the current economic climate and inflation, and promoting mindful consumption. Currently, I spend between $125-$150 per week. By setting a firm weekly target of $125, I will be more deliberate in evaluating purchasing decisions, asking whether items are truly needed, and focusing on creatively utilizing existing pantry staples to minimize waste. While this impacts finances, its daily management falls squarely under my personal responsibility, hence its placement here. This goal fosters resourcefulness and mindful consumption, contributing to both personal discipline and financial well-being.

Home/Financial Goals: Investing in Our Sanctuary and Future Security

1. Upstairs Renovation Completion: Our top priority for the home is the full completion of the second upstairs bathroom and the stairway. This significant project, delayed from last year, is #1 on the list to transform and enhance our living space, adding both functionality and value to our home. This requires dedicated planning and execution.
2. Kitchen Patio Stage 1: We plan to complete Stage 1 of our kitchen patio project, which involves constructing the patio area and the connecting stair from the kitchen door. Our hope is that Stage 2 will follow, adding a porch-like cover to create an even more inviting and sheltered outdoor space for enjoyment and entertaining. This phased approach makes large projects manageable.
3. Max Out Retirement Savings: This remains a crucial ongoing financial goal, ensuring our long-term stability. While it’s largely automated for us now, consistently maximizing our retirement savings is a foundational commitment to long-term financial security and future peace of mind. It’s a testament to sustained financial discipline.
4. Strategic Travel Planning: Our aim is to meticulously plan a few short, rejuvenating trips and family-focused excursions, in addition to one significant “big trip.” While the exact destinations are still being decided, the anticipation and collaborative planning make this an exciting goal, emphasizing the importance of creating lasting memories and shared experiences. Travel enriches our lives and broadens our perspectives.

Business Goals: Expanding Reach and Enhancing Efficiency for Sustainable Growth

1. Grow Email List to 20,000 Subscribers: This year marks the first time I am setting a specific numerical goal for my email list. Having observed a period of stagnation, it’s time to intentionally focus on growing this vital connection point with my community, aiming to reach 20,000 subscribers. This expansion will allow me to share more value and insights with a broader audience, fostering a stronger community.
2. Product Expansion & New Etsy Shop Launch: My goal is to add more valuable products to An Oregon Cottage’s shop, diversifying our offerings and providing more solutions for a simple homemade life. Furthermore, an exciting new venture for the year is the launch of an entirely new Etsy shop! This step represents a strategic effort to diversify our offerings and reach new segments of our audience with specialized, handmade-inspired goods, tapping into different markets.
3. Dedicated Monthly Financial Hour: This is a non-negotiable goal born directly from last year’s experience. I will dedicate a specific hour each month to meticulously track income and expenses. This proactive approach is essential for accurate bookkeeping, understanding business health, and avoiding the year-end scramble and stress that came from neglecting this crucial task previously. Consistent financial review is vital for sustainable business operation.
4. Quarterly Wall Calendar Planning: To maintain a clear, strategic overview and stay on track with business initiatives, I will implement quarterly planning using wall calendars. This involves utilizing the free printable calendar, displaying the current three-month quarter on wood clipboards hung prominently on the wall behind my desk. This visual system will ensure I always have a big-picture perspective, guiding my daily and weekly efforts towards larger objectives and fostering strategic clarity.

Curious to trace the evolution of my aspirations? You can explore all my past goals here, seeing how they’ve shaped my path and continue to inform our journey.

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