10 Small Steps for Big Change | You Were Made for More!

Happy New Year! 🎉 It’s a new year and a chance for a fresh start. Do I believe in resolutions? Sure! Do they have to be made at New Year’s? Nope. But is it a good time to do it? Yep. Let’s take small steps for big change! Y’all, it’s time to stop letting the small things in life hold you back from being all you were created to be! Simply put, you were made for more.

Here’s what I mean by that: you’re probably underestimating the impact you can have on the lives of others! God made you, He loves you, and He endowed you with gifts, talents, and abilities to bless, love, and encourage others. Your age doesn’t matter. You can improve your relationship with your adult kids; you can make a difference in the lives of others. You can go back to school. You can learn a language. You can volunteer for that cause. You can get back into the workforce. You can make changes, take better care of yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and grow. I believe in you! 

You were made for more, and if things like insecurity about your appearance, abilities, or age keep you from living your more, it needs to stop! Don’t overthink it. Don’t be afraid to start because you’re unsure you can keep it up. Just start. Do the things you know you need to do! Every day is a choice, and I believe you’ll choose to remember that God made you for more.

If you’re an empty nester, you’ve already done the most challenging job in the world. You’ve completed the sacred task of mothering.  That is no small feat. Seriously. Congratulations! Did you do it perfectly? Nope. Are your kids perfect? Again, nope. Did you do your best? Yep. I’m so proud of you.

Lucia Cardigan (buttons are tiny, sparkly bows!) – SUZY15 for 15% off | Cashmere Crewneck Sweater (unbelievable price!) | Southhampton Straight Leg Pants in “Rattan” | Faux Suede Ankle Booties | Pre-loved Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Neverfull MM

10 Small Steps for Big Change

The good news is that most things in life are fixable, or at the very least improvable! Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from getting started. Take small steps for big change! Are you worried you’ll start a fitness routine just to fall off the wagon in a few weeks? That’s fixable. If you do, you know there are things you can do to get back on track, but you can deal with that when it happens. Just get started. Momentum is powerful! Today, I’m sharing 10 small steps for big change! (In no particular order.)

1. Tackle Your Tech

Oversized Fleece Sweatshirt (Available in 12 colors.)

It’s time to stop asking your kids for help with your tech questions! They will respect you so much if you can learn to manage your tech! Type your tech questions into Google (Be very specific!), and follow the instructions. Still can’t figure it out? Head to YouTube and use the search engine. Alternatively, look into a class at a local senior center or community college. Last year, my senior adult parents (in their late 80s) took a class on how to use their iPads at their retirement center, and I was so proud of them! (They were pretty proud of themselves, too!😄)

2. Move More

Workout Dress | Belt Bag

You know you need to move more! Incorporate movement in small ways. Park farther away from the front of the store. Take the stairs. If you need to move something to the second story of your house, don’t make a pile on the steps! Walk it up there. Waiting to board your plane at the airport? Walk! Those steps add up! Aim for 10K a day. For bonus points, make those steps vigorous to raise your heart rate slightly. Walk like you’re in a hurry, and do it with purpose!

Want more? Need an in-home workout? Try following The Body Project on YouTube! This cute married couple offer free, beginner-friendly workout videos focused on low-impact, high-energy routines designed to improve your fitness and encourage you. They have lots of free low-impact HIIT workouts that you can do in a hotel room, on a patio, or right in your bedroom! Bob and I were pushed for time this morning, so we couldn’t get our regular workouts in, but we did one of The Body Project’s 20-minute workouts to get our bodies moving and wake up our brains! Endorphin rush ✔️✔️✔️!

3. Hone in on Your Health

How long has it been since your last checkup? If you’re over 50, you definitely need a checkup every year! Be honest with your physician about issues you may be having. At my last checkup, I told the doctor I knew I was behind on some of my vaccines and asked him to help me work on a schedule to get those knocked out over the next 6 months. (It’s important to space some vaccines out from others.) So far, I’ve gotten Covid/Flu and RSV. Next up: Pneumonia and Shingles. Also, be sure to schedule those tests you may have been putting off, like a colonoscopy, mammogram, or skin cancer check.

4. Take Care of Your Teeth

Poor dental habits can have a ripple effect throughout your body. In fact, the latest research shows that oral health has an undeniable link to heart disease, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and inflammation in general. Schedule a check-up with your dentist if you haven’t been in 6-12 months. (Small steps for big change, baby!)

Do you have gum recession? I do! Receding gums can lead to problems such as tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, gum infections, and even bone and tooth loss. Also, as more of your tooth becomes visible, it can affect the appearance of your smile. If you have issues, talk to your dentist and get a referral for a peridontist.

Need to whiten your teeth? I use and recommend Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips. They’re enamel safe, won’t cause sensitivity, are non-toxic, and microbiome safe. (That means they protect your body’s good bacteria and detoxify the harmful bacteria.) This package contains 7 treatments (That’s the number you’ll need to do the job!) Learn more HERE.

5. Feed Your Faith

Make going to church a priority this year! It’s a small step for big change! Research shows regular attendance lowers stress, improves mental health, and strengthens social connections. A JAMA Psychiatry study even found weekly churchgoers have a 33% lower risk of death. Beyond the science, church deepens your faith, aligns your priorities, and gives you a community that truly cares.

Also, I hope you’ll consider strengthening your faith by making daily Bible reading a habit this year. Research shows it’s more than just spiritual nourishment—it’s life-changing! Regular Bible readers report lower stress, greater emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of purpose. Studies also link daily scripture reading to healthier relationships and improved decision-making! Deepen your faith as you see the world God created and the people He loves (including YOU!) through His eyes.

Start small—just read a few verses a day—and watch how this simple practice impacts your year in powerful ways! If you haven’t spent much time reading the Bible, I’d recommend looking into one of THESE free, printable Bible reading plans. Looking for a good devotional book to guide you? I’m sharing my favorites below.

6. Nourish to Flourish

Chambray Ruffle Shift Dress

Fueling your body with good nutrition is one of the easiest ways to feel better fast—and it doesn’t have to mean a major overhaul! Start with small steps for big change, like swapping sugary snacks for a handful of nuts, upping your protein intake, or adding an extra veggie to your plate at dinner. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you! Making better food choices now can help you stay active and energetic so you can do everything you want to do in the future. (Think playing with the grandkids, traveling, etc!)

One of my favorite snacks (see above!) is carrots with sunflower butter! I’ve also upped my protein intake this year by adding THIS protein oatmeal to my breakfast rotation and adding THIS unflavored protein powder to my smoothies and more!

7. Skinspiration

Monogrammed Waffle Knit Robe | Face Wash Wristbands

If you’re a woman over 50, you should be wearing less makeup than you used to, and you should understand that no amount of makeup will cover up bad skin. I’ve written a lot about skincare! If I had to boil it down, it would be these things:

• Use a good cleanser. Mine has ceramides to create a barrier that keeps skin hydrated and protects it from harmful irritants, bacteria, and environmental toxins. It removes makeup and gently exfoliates for smooth, soft skin.
• Use a Vitamin C serum to protect skin against environmental damage caused by free radicals caused by sun and pollution.
• Use a good retinol that is non-irritating (code SUZYM15 for 15% off). Also, use a non-irritating retinol specifically formulated for the eye area.
• Add a hyaluronic acid serum to hydrate, smooth, and visibly reduce lines and wrinkles. When I added this serum, it was a game-changer! Applying an HA serum before your moisturizer allows the serum to draw moisture into the skin, which the moisturizer can then lock in.
• Use a good, basic moisturizer.
• Use sunscreen on all exposed skin! For body, Consumer Reports rated THIS one #1 for actually containing the SPF it says it does. For my face, I like Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen. It’s SPF 50, invisible, weightless, scentless, and it can double as a primer under makeup.
• Consider adding an at-home laser treatment for long-term results. I’ve been thrilled with the results I’ve had so far from using the Nira Pro Laser! (SUZY_10 for 10% off.) I’m in the middle of my initial 90-day treatment! See my 30-day results HERE.
• For body, use these winter months to moisturize! I towel off in the shower and slather on AmLactin Daily Nourish Body Lotion for Dry Skin while I’m still in the shower and my skin is damp. THEN, I step out of the shower. AmLactin has 12% Lactic Acid for gentle exfoliation. Goodbye, winter itchies! Hello, soft skin!

8. Your Mane Attraction

Monogrammed Waffle Knit Robe (Great for bridesmaids!)

It’s normal to lose hair as you age. Unfortunately we’re talking head, brows, and lashes. It can be normal, hereditary, or part of an underlying health condition. I have an auto-immune disease called lupus, which contributes to my hair loss. Here’s what I do:

• For hair loss on the head: I use Women’s Rogaine Foam (formerly a prescription, now OTC). Many people have also found success with Collecim Advanced Hair System. If all else fails, your dermatologist may be able to offer help.
• For lash and brow thinning, use a peptide serum to encourage hair growth. (I’ve found most of these work with similar effectiveness! I’ve tried them all.) I use the Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum from The Ordinary. (I really love this brand, known for science-driven skincare, high-quality, affordable products and transparency. Learn more about them HERE.)

9. Hydration Nation

Custom Name 16 oz Matte Tumbler ( Cute gift! Use SUZY10 for 10% off.)

When we’re talking about small steps for big change, staying properly hydrated is one of the simplest things you can do! It’s one of the best ways to support your overall health as you age. Drinking enough water can help improve your energy levels, keep your skin looking fresh and vibrant, and even aid in digestion. It’s also important for maintaining joint health, which is especially key if you’re staying active (go, you!). Dehydration can sometimes sneak up on us as we get older, so keeping a refillable water bottle handy is a great reminder to sip throughout the day. To find out how much you should be drinking a day, check out this Hydration Calculator.

10. Simplify Your Space

Simplifying and organizing your space can be a total game-changer as you embrace this season of life! Not only does it make downsizing easier if that’s on your horizon, but it also helps reduce stress and create a sense of calm in your home. Letting go of clutter gives you more time to focus on what truly matters—like hobbies, travel, or time with loved ones. Plus, an organized space is easier to clean and maintain (hello, less work!). Think small steps for big change: tackle one area at a time, and remember: it’s not about getting rid of everything, but keeping what sparks joy and serves you well in this stage of life. I’m working on this big-time this year, because we’re planning to downsize! Check out THIS post and THIS post for advice on where to donate those hard-to-donate items.

What are you working on this year? I’d love to know what small step you’re taking for big change! Do you have any resolutions or big projects you plan to tackle in 2025? Leave me a comment and let me know, okay? You’ve got this, Mama! We’re in it together! 🙌