Spirited Essence Works

The holidays are over, but life hasn’t slowed down. It feels like the Christmas whirlwind has left behind more than memories—my house is still a toy-filled disaster, and my to-do list seems to grow every day. Despite the chaos, I’m determined to find moments of peace and create habits that help me pull back into life rather than letting it sweep me away.

One tradition that helped ground us this year was an Epiphany activity we did as a family and included ones for the pets—albeit a few days late. We each chose a virtue to guide us through the year. Out of a list of 25 options, our guiding lights became Compassion, Love, Mercy, Humility, Kindness, Patience, and Peace. It was such a simple but meaningful way to anchor ourselves, and I can already feel these words shaping how we approach the days ahead.

If you’d like to try this with your family, here’s the list we used:

Grace • Mercy • Love • Faithfulness • Peace • Patience • Kindness • Joy • Rest • Adventure • Attention • Imagination • Faith • Compassion • Friendship • Song • Art • Generosity • Time • Humility • Persistence • Dedication • Inspiration • Comfort • Wholeness

Each person picks one virtue from the hat to embrace as their personal mantra for the year. These words have become a gentle reminder to live intentionally, even amid the chaos.

Here are some ways I’m working on bringing peace and intentionality into the new year:

1. Start Small Habits, Even Late

I’ve been meaning to start journaling but haven’t yet. Instead of letting the delay discourage me, I’m reminding myself that starting today is better than waiting for the perfect moment. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or setting aside quiet time, small habits can make a big difference in grounding us.

2. Embrace the Mess with Grace

My home is far from organized right now, but I’ve found that tackling one small area at a time helps ease the overwhelm. Start with a toy bin or a single drawer—it’s amazing how a little progress can create mental clarity. I started with a bookshelf then moved onto painting an entire room. I definitely have more to be completed in the next few weeks. Give yourself grace; the mess doesn’t define you.

3. Anchor Your Days with Meaning

Reflecting on our family’s chosen virtues has been a grounding practice. It reminds me to approach each day with intention, even in the chaos. Consider choosing a word or phrase that resonates with you and letting it guide your actions this year.

4. Pause and Reconnect

Slowing down doesn’t happen by accident. Whether it’s a few quiet moments over coffee or an impromptu family walk, create pockets of peace in your day. These little pauses help you step back, breathe, and appreciate the beauty of the present.

5. Celebrate Imperfection

Life isn’t perfect, and neither am I. The missed journal entries, the delayed virtues, the disorganized toys—all of it is part of this messy, beautiful journey. Let’s give ourselves permission to embrace where we are, even as we work toward something better.

As we step into this new year, let’s remember that it’s okay to be a little late, a little messy, and a little overwhelmed. The important thing is that we keep moving forward—choosing peace, creating space, and finding joy in the journey.

What’s your guiding word for the year? I’d love to hear how you’re finding peace and purpose in this season of life.