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Do you have questions about decluttering, minimalism, or balancing a busy frum life? I’d love to hear them! Send them my way, and I’ll do my best to answer in future posts or series.
You Have Questions. I Have Answers.
Hi Ellie,
I know you’re super into goal setting, and with January 1st approaching, can you share some of your tips with us?
As we inch closer to January 1 (may we be zoche to see the geulah and use only our Jewish calendar!), now’s the perfect moment to pause and think about our goals and priorities.
Setting goals is exciting—and let me tell you, I LOVE this topic. It’s my favorite! Whether it’s in my courses, workshops, or even the Frum Minimalist Planner, I’m always teaching how to turn those big dreams into reality.
But here’s the kicker: we’re all pros at setting goals, but when it comes to achieving them? Well... let’s just say: crickets!
So, how do we stop the cycle of big dreams and little follow-through? Let’s talk about how to take real, actionable steps to make this year different.
1. Set Goals That Actually Work (Not Just Look Good)
We all love setting those huge goals.“This year, I’m going to declutter my entire house, lose 50 pounds, become a master chef, and write a novel—all by Tu B’Shvat!”
Sound familiar? That’s what I call overwhelming yourself to failure.
Instead, focus on one specific, achievable goal that will actually move the needle in your life.
Here are some examples:
Decluttering: Choose one room per week—start with your coat closet or kitchen counters.
Health: Commit to drinking one extra glass of water daily or walking 15 minutes after dinner.
When your goals feel manageable, you’re more likely to stay consistent—and consistency beats perfection every time.
2. Write It Down
This might sound too simple, but writing your goals down is magic. Did you know you’re 42% more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down?
Here’s how to start:
Grab a notebook (or the Frum Minimalist Planner).
Write down your top 3 goals for the year.
Break each goal into smaller steps:
Monthly milestones: Declutter one space per month.
Weekly tasks: Spend 60 minutes organizing each week.
Daily actions: Clear one drawer or shelf a day—seriously, just ONE.
Pro Tip:
Keep your written goals visible! Tape them inside your closet, stick them in your planner, or set them as your phone background.
3. Habit Tracking: Your Secret Weapon
Consistency is the secret to long-term success, and that’s where habit tracking shines. In my Frum Minimalist Planner, I’ve included a habit tracker to help you stay on top of your daily routines.
Examples of habits to track:
Saying Modeh Ani and Shema.
Drinking enough water.
Decluttering one drawer daily.
Smiling at each child and looking into their eyes each morning.
Expressing gratitude to your husband at least once a day.
Spending five minutes in personal tefillah.
Tidying up your kitchen counters before bed.
Reading Tehillim daily.
Washing and putting away one load of laundry each day.
Walking for 15 minutes in fresh air.
Preparing the next day’s to-do list before going to sleep.
Listening to a shiur or inspiring podcast while cooking or cleaning.
Giving a small amount of tzedakah daily.
Writing down one thing you’re grateful for each night.
Limiting social media use to a specific time block.
Every time you check off a habit, you’re reinforcing progress. Small steps lead to BIG changes!
Pro Tip:
Use your planner’s habit tracker to build momentum.
4. Prioritize Progress, Not Perfection
Perfection? Overrated. Progress? That’s where the magic happens.
Waiting for the “perfect” time to start? Newsflash: There’s never a perfect time!
Here’s how to start TODAY:
Pick a “quick win” (something small you can do in under 10 minutes):
Empty your junk drawer and put things back neatly.
Sort through your mail pile and toss the trash.
Write down tomorrow’s top 3 priorities before bed.
These small actions create momentum, and momentum leads to results. Don’t overthink it—just start.
5. Make Time for What Matters
We all have 24 hours in a day—but are you choosing how to spend them? Or are distractions choosing for you?
Let’s get intentional with our time:
Block out “priority time”: Set aside 15–30 minutes a day for your most important goal. (Tip: Early mornings or right after the kids go to bed work great!)
Batch your tasks: Group similar tasks together—like making phone calls or folding laundry while listening to a shiur.
Say “no” to distractions: Social media can wait. Turn off notifications when you’re focusing on your goals.
6. Take Action Right Now
Here’s something you can do this very second:
Grab a pen and paper.
Write down:
One goal you want to achieve this year.
One step you can take today to move closer to it.
Do that step. Yes, NOW!
I’m Here to Help
If you’re new here, welcome! Let me break this down for you. If you’re already familiar with this, just skip.
Feeling overwhelmed by clutter and not sure where to start? Don’t worry—I’ve got three ways to help you take control and create a peaceful, organized home:
This step-by-step course is like having me right there with you, holding your hand through the entire decluttering process.
Here’s what you’ll get:
Easy-to-follow video lessons you can watch at your own pace.
A clear, 6-week plan to transform your home—manageable and stress-free.
Cheerleading and support from me every step of the way, so you never feel stuck or overwhelmed.
This is the quickest and easiest way to see results because I guide you through it all.
2. My Book
Prefer to go at your own pace? My book is perfect for self-starters! It’s packed with actionable steps and practical tips to help you declutter and organize your home independently. If you love reading and tackling projects solo, this is your go-to.
Want the ultimate shortcut? My team and I can come to your home and do all the work for you.
We’ll:
Declutter and organize your space.
Create lasting systems to keep your home in order.
Leave you with a peaceful, clutter-free haven—without you lifting a finger!
Whether you prefer DIY, guided help, or letting us handle it all, the result is the same: a clutter-free home and a happier, calmer you.
Let’s Make This Year Count
No more “someday” goals. This is YOUR year to take action, make progress, and transform your home and life. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate every win—no matter how tiny.
Ready to get started? Grab the tools you need, write down your goals, and take the first step right now.
Let’s do this together!
Ellie
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