Early each year I like to set aside time to consider goals for my home. We often think of new-year resolutions for ourselves, but giving the home some intentional goals can be equally rewarding.
Where should you begin?
I recommend starting by reflecting on the previous year. A quick look back helps you appreciate what you already have and clarifies what worked well. Even in difficult years there are usually lessons learned, small victories, and memorable moments that can guide your plans.
Next, consider what will matter most to your household in the year ahead. You can’t predict everything, of course, but based on what you know now: how can your home better support your family’s needs in the coming months?
Maybe you’ll be welcoming a new baby, or perhaps your children will soon leave the nest. Maybe you’re working from home and need a functional office, or maybe you want to simplify and declutter to create a calmer, more peaceful environment. Think about how changes in your life should influence the way your home operates and feels.
Are there practical improvements you should plan to protect your home’s value or to support your family’s wellbeing this year?
How do you want your home to feel? I believe the way a home feels is more important than how it looks. Ask yourself whether you want it to feel cozy, comforting, cheerful, calm, or energizing. Choose a few words that capture the atmosphere you want to create, or write a short sentence that sums up the feeling you’re aiming for.
From that feeling, list the specific projects you want to tackle, the spaces you want to declutter or organize, and the memories you hope to create this year. Having concrete plans makes it easier to follow through.
Each year I share a simple Home Goals worksheet to help get the ideas flowing and to provide a place to record plans. It’s a useful tool to save and revisit, so you can check progress and stay focused on your priorities throughout the year.
Download the Home Goals worksheet (8.5 x 11 size) and Instagram story template from the provided resource to use and customize for your household.
If you use Instagram, save the template image to your phone and fill it out in your stories. Share your completed sheet if you’d like to inspire others, or post your goals in the TIR community on Facebook. You’re also welcome to share the blank version so friends can use it too. Tag @theinspiredroom if you post your goals.
Happy home dreaming and planning!