Hello Everyone! 🙂 I hope 2019 has been treating you well. For those who don’t know me, I’m Candis. I am a 25-year-old Graphic Designer, Photographer, and Geek Lifestyle Blogger. I can’t believe it’s already March! With that being said, I’ve had almost 3 months to think (and rethink) about my goals for 2019. I know, I’m a little late to the party here. Recently, I’ve come to the conclusion that I don’t like to make “resolutions” – I like to make “goals”. Unlike goals, resolutions give no room for error. Whereas, goals are a little more flexible. Truthfully, if I’ve made strides to improve myself and my life by the end of the year then I feel like I’ve accomplished my goals for the year.

Last year, there were months where I was at the top of my game, and months where I fell off the horse so to speak. Even so, 2018 wasn’t a bad year. Surprisingly, I accomplished a lot as a professional, as a blogger, and as a person. In fact, we all should take a step back to think of ways we can improve ourselves, and live a happier and healthier life. Without further ado, I’d like to share with you all: A Geek Girl’s Goals for 2019.

Post on the Blog 2 Times a Month (Or Every 3 Weeks)

In 2018, one of my goals was to post on the blog 2 times a month. On average, I posted once a month. This year, I hope to double that or at least post more blog posts than I did last year. As someone who works a full-time job, my time spent working on the blog is limited. In advance, I’d like to block out time in my schedule to write, and create blog content. Undoubtedly, time management, and sticking to my blogging schedule is key to reaching this goal.

Collaborate With More Companies, Small Businesses, and Brands

In 2019, I had the pleasure to collaborate with some great companies and small businesses: Totally Good Time, The Museum of Science and Industry, Caroeas, and NetGalley. I had great experiences trying their products, and attending events that came from working with them. As a small blogger, I’m truly blessed that companies want to work with me. I hope in 2019, I get to work with these companies again, in addition to other amazing companies, small businesses, and brands like them. With that being said, if you’d like to collaborate with me, feel free to contact me!

Read 66 Books

Without a doubt, one of my FAVORITE pastimes is reading. In 2018, I participated in the Goodreads Reading Challenge, and pledged to read 60 books. In fact, I surpassed my goal by reading 63 books. I’d like to read 66 books in 2019. Hopefully, I can make a huge dent in my bookshelves, and discover some new favorites. Last year, I started reviewing books for NetGalley, which is a site where Book Lovers can review advanced reader copies digitally. It’s only March and I already have a bunch of eBooks queued up. To see what I’m currently reading, please follow me on Goodreads.

Work Out At Least 2 Times A Week

In 2017, my Zumba teacher, Cherry passed away. My mom and I took her Zumba class for about 5 years. She was such an amazing teacher and a lovely human being. My mom and I both thought of her as a friend. Therefore, her passing was very devastating. Last Summer, my mom and I decided to sign up for another Zumba class. At first, we were skeptical. However, we ended up loving our new instructor. She really pushes us, and I always leave her class sweating…and smiling.

Even though I go to Zumba once a week, that isn’t enough exercise to stay active, and well-conditioned. At least, for me. For the past few years, I’ve gained weight, and have suffered from extreme stress and body tension. My goal is to work out at least 2 times a week to reduce these health concerns. To fill the second time slot, I’d like to swim, do yoga, and/or lift weights. I believe that I will be a whole lot happier and healthier if I can work out at least 2 times a week.

Attend New Conventions & Shows

Every year, my boyfriend Carlos and I look forward to going to comic conventions and toy shows. My favorites are C2E2, Wizard World Chicago, and the Kane County Toy Show. Carlos and I love to find treasures on the show floor, meet artists and Funko collectors, and attend fun panels. Although, we have been to a few others (besides the ones I mentioned). We’d love to find some new ones in Illinois. We’re thinking about attending a new and upcoming convention in Wisconsin. I hope we can find some new conventions and/or shows to explore. Fellow Geeks, if you’re from the Chicago area, please let us know which conventions and shows we should check out! In the meantime, feel free to check out my blog post, Wizard World Chicago 2018.

Go To Sleep Earlier

If you were to ask me if I’m a morning person or a night owl, I’d definitely say I’m a night owl. I love to stay up late, and I usually pay for it the next day. Most nights, I go to bed around 11:00pm. I get up for work pretty early – anytime between 5am and 6:30am. Throughout the day, I’m very tired, which can effect many aspects of my life. Also, I struggle with staying asleep, which just adds to the problem. I think I’ll be on my way to getting more sleep if I can be in bed no later than 10:00pm. Zzzz!

Create A Blog Series

I always love when bloggers and YouTubers post content that’s part of a series. As a follower, it’s nice to know what reoccurring content to expect. Creating content for a series seems to attract a new audience, create conversation, and build a consistent community of readers. So far on the blog, I haven’t had any reoccurring series. Recently, I got the idea for a reoccurring series that I hope you’ll like. I don’t want to reveal it yet. But, I’m hoping it will be a weekly series – if I can manage that.

Rebrand My Blog

Last year, the blog and website template I was using became obsolete. For that reason, I was forced to choose a new template, and redesign my website. Originally, my website was a graphic design portfolio website with a blog. Currently, it’s just a blog. During that time I was really tempted to rebrand my blog, and give it a proper name. However, I decided I wasn’t ready to make it happen. Although, I’ve finally found my niche, Geek Lifestyle, and have filed away a list of possible blog names. In 2018, I really grew as a blogger. So, hopefully this will be the year I’ll make the jump to rebrand my blog.

Eat Healthier

For the past few years, I’ve struggled with my weight. As a kid, I was a pretty good weight for my height, and had a fast metabolism. So, I could eat whatever my little heart desired. However, as an adult I’ve learned I can’t eat whatever I want, and get away with it. Since always, I’ve been a picky eater and gravitate towards carbs and sweets. Although I’m not as picky as when I was a child, I could definitely develop healthier eating habits to better nourish my body and lose weight.

I’ve decided to start with breakfast. After all it is “the most important meal of the day”. First, I’ve switched out a chocolate donut or Starbuck croissant for low fat Greek Yogurt. Not only does this breakfast choice not break the bank, but it’s way less calories. Next up, snacks! It’s no secret that I have a pretty big sweet tooth. I’ve been trying to implement snacks like cheese sticks or granola bars instead of sweet treats. Especially, at the office. At work, temptation is always around me with sugary goodness at every turn – mainly in the kitchen. So, as you can see, the struggle is REAL.

Honestly, I know I won’t give up pasta or sweets. But, I think portion control is key. As well as, being conscience what I’m eating, and how much I’m eating during the day. If I can do that, and substitute some healthier options, I should be in good shape – hopefully LITERALLY.

Be Financially Responsible

You don’t realize how expensive it is to be an adult until you become one yourself. This year, I really need to stay on top of my finances, and spending habits. I have big plans for this year that require a lot of money. Therefore, I need to cut back. A lot. So far, I’ve put myself on a book buying ban because I buy too many books. Even though I already have way too many. In addition, I’m substituting my Starbucks breakfasts for cheaper (and healthier) options. Hopefully this year, I can become more financially responsible, and make my dreams come true.

I Can Do It!

I’m really looking forward to seeing what 2019 has in-store for me. Last year was full of many accomplishments, and some amazing opportunities. I’m super excited to see these goals become a reality. Some goals might be harder to achieve than others. But, I know I can do it! Let’s go 2019!

What are your 2019 goals? What goals have you accomplished so far? Please let me know in the comments below!

I hope to see you in my next blog post!

♥ Candis

DISCLAIMER: This post is not sponsored. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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