By Claudia Pittard, Remain Connected Counseling Graduate Intern
A new year brings a unique opportunity—a blank slate, a fresh beginning, and the chance to realign with what truly matters. It’s a natural time to reflect, reset, and rethink how we spend our time and energy.
I’ve always struggled with overcommitting. If something sounds meaningful or even just interesting, I’m quick to say “yes.” But after a while, all those commitments pile up, and I find myself stretched too thin, running on fumes. I’ve learned (the hard way) that being intentional with my time matters. Without intentionality, I end up stuck in a long to-do list filled with tasks that don’t feel life-giving.
Clarify What Matters Most For Your Purpose
Before jumping into new commitments this year, pause and reflect. What do you hope this year will look like? Who do you want to become? Think about relationships, health, personal growth, and spiritual life.
Ask yourself:
What values do I want to guide my life?
What brings me joy, meaning, or a sense of purpose?
What do I want to prioritize this year?
What parts of my life have felt neglected?
This next step can be eye-opening. Write down every current commitment in your life—work tasks, family responsibilities, volunteer roles, friendships, hobbies, even everyday tasks like cooking or exercise. Include both things you “have” to do and things you “choose” to do.
Seeing everything in one place can be revealing. Are there more commitments than you expected?
Sort and Categorize
Now, create three categories:
Essentials: Non-negotiable responsibilities like work, core family tasks, and necessary life management.
Life-Giving: These commitments align with your values, bringing joy, energy, and personal growth.
Needs Adjustment or Letting Go: These might require clearer boundaries, reduced time, or even removal if they no longer fit your goals.
This process isn’t about guilt—it’s about recalibrating. Even good things aren’t always the right things for this season.
It’s easy to overestimate how much time you actually have in a week. As you sort your commitments, build in enough buffer time for rest, connecting with loved ones, and having personal downtime. Taking breaks isn’t wasted time—it’s essential for your well-being.
Ask yourself:
Does my schedule reflect space for rest and relationships?
Have I left room for spontaneous moments of joy?
Am I giving myself permission to recharge?
Consider going a step further by mapping your commitments onto a weekly calendar. Seeing your responsibilities visually can help you create a balanced rhythm. With your commitments sorted, think about what you want to add or protect in your life. Schedule time for these priorities—not just work deadlines, but also relationships, rest, health, spiritual practices, and things that inspire you. Build your calendar from the inside out.
Be Willing to Let Go
Letting go can be tough, but it’s necessary. Every time you say “yes” to something outside your values, you’re saying “no” to something that matters more. Practice saying “no” with grace—it opens space for what truly nourishes your growth.
Ask yourself:
Am I holding onto this commitment out of obligation or fear?
What would it feel like to let this go?
An Ongoing Practice
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or struggling with balance, consider reaching out to a mental health counselor. Sometimes, an outside perspective can help identify patterns and create healthier rhythms for your life. There’s no shame in asking for help—it’s one of the most intentional steps you can take toward well-being.
Life is dynamic. New opportunities and challenges will arise. Return to this practice regularly—not just at the start of the year, but whenever life feels cluttered.
Begin Working With A Therapist in Marietta or Cartersville GA
Please consider reaching out to a qualified therapist. Our team of caring therapists would be honored to offer support with in-person and online services from our Marietta, GA-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Reach out to talk to a Marietta, Roswell, or Cartersville therapist.
Have your first appointment at Remain Connected.
Learn how to wait well.
Other Services Offered at Remain Connected Counseling
Our team knows you may experience other issues in your life. This is why we are happy to offer a variety of services including teen therapy, anxiety treatment, and EMDR therapy. In addition, we also offer life transitions therapy and depression counseling, and more all under a Christian counseling lens. By using online therapy, these services are available to anyone in Georgia. Learn more about our team of dedicated therapists and contact us!