I'll Be Happy When...

Plus, my thoughts on goal setting, my word for 2025, and the best items I got for Christmas.

I’ll be happy when...

I’ll be happy when I get that new job.
I’ll be happy when I go on that big vacation.
I’ll be happy when my baby sleeps through the night.

We’ve all been there—dreaming about that elusive moment when everything will align, and happiness will finally settle in. Goodness knows I’ve been there. I’ve lived most of my life like that—always searching for the next goal, yearning for the next accomplishment, hoping that then I’d feel calm, fulfilled, and happy.

But here’s what I’ve learned…that’s a terrible way to live.

For years, I chased goals relentlessly. When I hit them, I didn’t celebrate. I didn’t feel the satisfaction I thought I would because I was already onto the next thing. I’m naturally a high achiever and goal-oriented person, which has served me well in many ways, but it also came at a cost—my mental health.

As I’ve entered my late 30s, I’ve started to reflect on this approach to life. Growing up, I had a plan and a vision: graduate high school at the top of my class, go to college, land a great job, get engaged, get married, have kids. Check, check, check.

But once I ticked off all those boxes, I found myself wondering: What’s next?

To fill that void, I turned to professional goals. Make this much money. Grow this many followers. Launch this new project. But instead of enjoying the journey, I was filling my life with checklists, accomplishments, and fleeting victories.

Choosing Intentions Over Goals

Over the past few years, I’ve pivoted. Instead of creating a long list of goals each January, I now choose a word or intention to guide me throughout the year.

In 2022, it was The Year of Casey. That year, I focused on myself—my health, my mental well-being, and my friendships. I tried new hobbies, read more books, and carved out time to nurture the relationships that mattered most. It was a fantastic year.

In 2023, Finn and I made it The Year of Us. We prioritized our relationship, planning date nights, a staycation, and even a short getaway. That intention strengthened our marriage and reminded us why we’re such a good team.

For 2025, my word is Strong.

At the end of 2024, I underwent a total right hip replacement. It was a humbling experience—being temporarily helpless and relying on others—and it gave me a new perspective on my health. I want to be strong, not just for now, but for decades to come. I want to be the grandmother who lifts her grandkids with ease and stays active without limitations.

This isn’t about hitting a certain weight on the scale or lifting a specific number at the gym. Which, honestly, was my focus for most of my adult life. For me, strong is about longevity, functionality, and feeling good in my body. It’s a shift in mindset—from focusing on how I look to focusing on how I feel.

But strong isn’t just physical. It’s also mental.

As someone who avoids conflict and strives to keep everyone happy, I often don’t speak up for myself. I’ve said yes when I should have said no, and I’ve prioritized others’ needs over my own. This year, I want to build the strength to use my voice, set boundaries, and stay grounded in my choices.

Professionally, I’m applying strong to The DIY Playbook as well. While I set goals for my business, I want strength to permeate through my work and this community.

My mission has always been to empower you to feel capable—whether it’s tackling a home project, learning a new skill, or finding confidence in yourself. You don’t need to rely on anyone else to make your house a home. You’re stronger than you think.

Now, I’d love to hear from you. What’s your word or intention for the year ahead? How has goal setting changed for you over time? Let’s share in the comments below and encourage one another—this community is here to support you.

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On a Lighter Note

While we’re reflecting on intentions, I also wanted to share some fun highlights from the holiday season.

Let’s talk gifts! Here are a few favorites I received and some items I’ve been loving lately.

What I Got For Christmas

• It was the season of new shoes for me. In the last few years, I’ve made it a point to only buy high-quality shoes that won’t fall apart. I spent too many years just buying random shoes that were on sale at DSW (no more!). Here are some new ones I got this holiday season. These waterproof knee-high boots, these brown booties, these snow boots (Sorel is the only way to go!), and these Chelsea boots. I know…lots of boots, right?! But that’s pretty much all I wear during the winter months here in Chicago.

• I’m in love with these new jeans that I got from my mom. The wide leg cut is new for me and I’ve had fun styling them. I also couldn’t resist my favorite jeans on sale with a new cute button detailing.

• Jan also got me these charm bracelets with the names of my family members on them. Putting them on each morning brings me so much joy! These may be my new go-to gift.

• My mother-in-law gifted me this suede midnight blue saddle bag. Oh my, it’s stunning. For the past three years, I haven’t used a purse…just this fanny pack. It’s kinda fun to wear a purse again!

• A few more gifts this season: These silk jammies (use code DIYPLAYBOOK for 15% off), these makeup towels (a must for any guest bathroom), and this lightweight robe. I’ve never been a big robe girl, but I’m surprised by how much I’ve been wearing this when I’m getting ready in the morning.

What I’ve Been Reading/Watching/Listening To

• Dark Days Ahead: I read this novel in two days. It was fantastic! I would describe it as a mix of the book Ready Player One and Practical Magic…a futuristic society with a magical twist. Such a good read.

• Good Inside: I’m often in the midst of both a fiction and non-fiction book. This is my non-fiction pick for this month. I read it when it first came out, but as my kids get older (and come with new challenges), I needed to re-read it!

• A Man On The Inside: I adore Ted Danson and when I saw this pop up on Netflix, I watched it in a weekend. It was fantastic!

• We Can Do Hard Things (Episode #366 Debunking Goals): This is a weekly listen and this episode resonated with me as I was figuring out my word for 2025. They dive into the concept of goal setting and whether having rigid expectations for the future can be detrimental.

xo,

Casey