New Year, New Goals

As I write this, I can’t believe a new year is here. Last year was a blur. I started a new job in late May/June, and though it is volunteer, it has been a big commitment. It’s also one I care deeply about, as it involves editing, leading an international team of writers, stepping outside of my comfort zone, and helping share expert knowledge on all things migraine.

As someone who has had migraine with and without aura since age 12, and who has also experienced migraine aura without headache (presenting as transient aphasia) for over a decade, I know full well how much migraine can affect someone’s life, how the right care can mean the world, and how stigmatizing the condition can be among people who don’t understand its complexities. To help even one person with migraine get relief, or gain understanding and/or hope, is priceless. And now that Gwen has migraine, I am even more committed. I don’t want to see my baby girl suffer.

That said, with the new role on my plate, I haven’t had as much time to write here, but I am committing to writing more this year, as I miss it, so expect more content on nattienaturally in 2025. As for how I did on last year’s resolution to simplify, I’d say I did well in reaching that goal in some ways, and not as much in others, partly because I was so busy and had a change in routine.

One way I met that goal was by simplifying my workouts. In order to accomplish more at once, I started taking more walks outside, eventually adding a weighted vest to my walks. I continued to enjoy Peleton Barre, weight lifting and cycling classes, but I made my walks a priority.

I learned that the fresh air, even when it was bitter cold, really cleared my mind. I also realized that I love seeing some of the same people every day; it makes the world feel smaller.

I really appreciate that I can listen to podcasts on my walks, too. Certain podcasts like the Mel Robbins Podcast have really moved me and changed my life, and I truly mean that. Other podcasts, like Lipstick on the Rim or Breaking Beauty make my mood lighter by talking about fashion and beauty — two topics that always excite me and get me out of my head when I’ve been over-thinking.

And my walks also provide a great chance to make phone calls and catch up with my mom or a friend. What’s more, I swear I’ve seen signs from my dad when I really needed them.

I guess in simple words, the walks have simplified things by killing several birds with one stone: by providing exercise to make my body and mind feel strong and calm, by making me feel closer to God, and by providing connection with others via podcasts, greeting passersby, talking on the phone — and my personal favorite, walking with my girls or hubby, or my mom when she visits.

I also have simplified in terms of shopping. I love Target Drive-Up! It saves time. I‘ve built a connection with the delivery people. And it saves us money, because I don’t buy things based on my browsing (which I still love to do, by the way).

Kind of related, I also simplified my skincare, then Beautycounter went on a hiatus, so I had to try a bunch of new things. I’d say I’m getting back to simple skincare now, but it’s taken a while.

We’ve also donated a lot of items, but I’d still like to clear out some clutter. When you’re super busy, it’s amazing how many un-needed things can accumulate. And clutter triggers my anxiety.

I definitely still want to work on simplifying as it creates more time, more space … and don’t we all want more time? But my word for this year is peace.

I pray for a peaceful mind, no matter what happens. I want to worry a lot less. It can be really mind-blowing to think back on all that’s happened in a year, and to realize you made it through it all. It is pretty enlightening and reassuring.

I pray for peaceful connections with the ones I love. I want to take a beat before reacting and always lead with love. This also means I need to prioritize my sleep and exercise, especially as I ride the perimenopause rollercoaster.

And I pray for peace in dealing with the daily news, as well as in dealing with everyone at Costco on the day before a snow day. Yikes! I do know that we never fully know what others are going through, and leading with love, empathy and grace can go a long way.

As Luke Bryan sings, “Most People Are Good.” And as someone just remarked in a Mel Robbins podcast, “Nobody waves, but everyone waves back.” So true! Sometimes you have to be the first person to make an effort. I want to be that person more often.

-Natalie Kaar