My mindset heading into 2023 is to make the life I want for myself. The last few years have been a series of things happening to me, as opposed to me choosing what my life will be like. See: the pandemic. So, in 2023 I have a handful of goals written specifically to improve my quality of life and create joy every day.

Buy a house - This apartment has served its purpose well. The day I moved in was the end of the most traumatic week of my life, capped off by the listing of the dream house my family owned. Since that day I’ve dreamed of the day I’d be a homeowner again. A week from today, that dream becomes a reality! The quirky little house will be fantastic for a single guy like me, and the massive backyard will have Walter more excited than ever!

Furnish the guest bedroom - I want my home to be a place of rest and creativity. What better way to achieve that than to have a guest bedroom where friends and family can stay. Whether visiting from out of town or simply enjoying one too many glasses of bourbon, I’ll have a room where you can sleep well and enjoy your own space!

Host weekly hang sessions - I love having friends over. That was one of the guiding principles during my house search, and with the new backyard I’ll be able to have folks over all the time! I’ll establish a day of the week for a standing “open house” hang session where folks can come and go as they’re able. I want this home to be a place of community and laughter.

Buy electric lawn care equipment - I LOVE working in the yard. My idea of a perfect Saturday morning is slowly waking up, watching the news with coffee in hand, then working in the yard for a few hours. I’m super excited to stock the garage with all the gear necessary to maintain an amazing yard!

There you have it, 2023’s lifestyle goals! What are you doing this year to make the life you’ve always wanted?