January Isn’t Just for Goals. It’s for Repair.
- Mafalda Novo
- Jan 21
- 2 min read
January can feel loud — goals, resolutions, plans.
For working parents, that noise is amplified by an ongoing mental load: work deadlines, children’s needs, logistics, routines, and the quiet pressure to “start the year strong”.
This year, my January feels different.
Instead of feeling energised and ready to push forward, I feel quieter, unmotivated, and behind. By becoming aware of that before adding more goals, I know I need time for repair.
“You are not behind. You are not failing. You may simply be in a season of repair.”
Psychology shows that sustainable motivation is intrinsic — it grows when we feel aligned with our values and have enough internal resources.
Constant pressure and comparison increases stress, which affects focus, emotional regulation and energy.
Repair is not doing nothing.
It’s restoring energy before demanding performance.
It’s reconnecting with yourself beneath roles and responsibilities.
“For working parents, repair is not optional. It’s essential.”
Before we push forward, we need to pause.
Before we set goals, we need to reconnect.
Before we expect more from ourselves, we need to restore what has been depleted.
Reflective Questions for Working Parents
If you are feeling quiet, overwhelmed, or behind, take a moment to reflect:
What is my current state — physically, mentally, emotionally?
Where am I functioning on autopilot, without paying attention to my needs?
What do I need more of right now: rest, structure, clarity, or connection?
Where am I acting from pressure rather than intention?
How do I want to feel this year, and what small actions can support that?
These questions aren’t about adding more tasks — they’re about rebuilding your foundation so motivation can emerge naturally, sustainably, and without guilt.
If this resonates, I’m shaping a 6-sessions coaching programme for working parents (https://www.mafaldanovo.com/igniting-you) who want to stop running on empty and build sustainable energy, clarity, and motivation — without guilt or overwhelm.
Send me a message to join the conversation.
#ParentingAndCareer #WellbeingAtWork #MentalHealth #SelfCare #SustainableMotivation #IntrinsicMotivation #ParentingSupport #EmotionalWellbeing #LifeBalance #StressManagement #Reflection #CoachingForParents
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