It always sounds like a good idea to make a resolution for growth each year, but its a common practice to run out of drive or inspiration, leaving us discouraged. It is important to remember that building small habits leads to big results, so if you find yourself off track just pick back up where you left off! These people and their resolutions remind us that you can never have too much positivity in your life, no dream is too big (or too small), and every day is an opportunity to be better than yesterday.
Elizabeth Agee, Envy Boutique
In 2024, I started saying daily affirmations each morning to get my mind right for each day. The power of our words is an amazing thing, putting positive energy into the universe. It truly has helped me see the positive in every situation and be the best version of myself that I can be.
Shana Freeman, Sage Dreams
When it comes to New Years Resolutions, in recent years, I’ve given myself grace and not put too much pressure on myself. For 2024 I took a holistic approach. I decided to focus more on people, places and things that I’m passionate about, which meant forcing myself to be okay with saying no to things that don’t align. This has been an adjustment but very rewarding and a goal of mine to continue in 2025. The results have definitely allowed for more peace and joy in my daily life...two things I can never get enough of!!
Brad Clasgens, AVIQ
I've been a percussionist on the side for many years, and my resolution for 2024 was to pack in as many music performances into my schedule as possible. Most years I play two or three musicals; this year, I've already played four. This year has brought me the opportunity to play drums regularly around the southeast with Dr. Warren Ertle's Corpse Revivers, an authentic 1920s hot jazz orchestra, with vintage instruments, tuxedos, Brylcreem, the whole nine yards! Life is better when you prioritize what you enjoy.
Jessica Barnes, Vous Salon Retreat
My 2024 resolution was to prioritize my health. I thought that meant working out more and eating healthier, but in actuality I decided to do a preventative surgery to mitigate my increased chance of developing ovarian cancer, which required me to sit down for about 8 weeks to rest, recover and recharge my nervous system. Taking that time changed my outlook on what a healthy lifestyle looks like. I’ve been consistently drinking a longevity shake, reducing alcohol intake, and I am feeling great and healthier than ever!
Landon Dalton, Black Crow Building Company
My goal for 2024 was to get Black Crow Building Co. off the ground and to build the company based on integrity and treating people right, not by seeing how much money we could make or how large our margins could be. I wanted to give back as much as we could and see if a company could grow under those principles and I am happy to say that going into 2025 we have shown that it can!
Amy Bailey, Huntsville City Lifestyle
For years I had wanted to take ballroom dancing classes, but I always thought I had to do something like that with my husband. After years of waiting to do it together, I finally realized why not do this on your own? The instructors at Fred Astaire Dance Studio are incredible. I have enjoyed every second of it and feel like I have found a new favorite hobby. The way it exercises your brain, improves balance, and moves your body is something that you can do at any age. Plus I LOVE to dance and love being able to do it at a higher level.
Jenny Best, Best Life Wellness
I like to focus on a single word each year that inspires growth and improvement. This year, my word was “knowledge.” Choosing a word to guide your year is a simple, effective practice that keeps you motivated without feeling overwhelming. It’s a great way to set meaningful intentions without the risk of disappointment! I also wanted to read more for pleasure—and I’m happy to say I did! Some standout reads were Beautyland and In the Distance.