And here we are: setting goals for 2026. The new year is literally right around the corner, and while I do not make resolutions, I am in the habit of setting goals. While I am approaching the new year a little more quietly and cautiously than usual (because 2025 was kind of a jerk), I do have some things I’d like to accomplish.
Grow My PetSitting Business
Last January, I registered with the pet sitting platform, Rover, and embarked on a new, entrepreneurial venture. I was booked and busy the entire year, gaining almost 40 furry (and scaly and feathered) clients. I don’t know what took me so long. Caring for animals is one of my favorite things to do, and it’s been pretty amazing. In 2026, my goal is to continue to build my client base and jobs. It’s time to get serious!
Take On A Big Race
Over the last two years, I’ve stuck to 5Ks with the occasional 10K. However, I think I’m ready to push for something bigger. I miss the big, huge races in cool places. I don’t think I’m ever going to do another marathon, but a half would be nice.
Add At Least One More State
I’m at 14 states in my quest to run a race in all 50 states, and I’d like to add at least one more this year. We are looking at a trip to Vermont in October, and if I play my cards right, I could snag both Vermont and New Hampshire in one weekend. And if we got to New York in December, I hope to be able to grab one more. My eyes are set on Kentucky in May of 2027 for my 50th birthday, and maybe Chicago in March of that year for the Shamrock Shuffle. Plans are in the works.
Survive Empty Nesting
While A doesn’t have a definitive plan yet, he is not planning on living at home when he starts college. It’s going to be very different, and as much as I’m excited for him, it’s going to mean big changes for us. I hope to adjust quickly and transition smoothly to this next chapter. Any tips?
What are your goals for 2026?
Join us next week —> How are you ringing in the New Year?
Link Up With Tuesday Topics
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I love how your Rover business is growing so quickly – congrats!
As for empty nester advise, saying goodbye and the drive home were sad for me, but my husband and I immediately embraced being empty nesters and loved that phase of our lives. You will, too! Just remember that your job to this point has been to prepare A to flourish when he goes out on his own. You’re a good momma and I’m sure he’ll do well!
We already have some trips and plans, but I’m not great with sudden shifts in energy and dynamics. I’m trying to prepare for that. I know he will be fine. He’s an absolute force. It’s just going to be so different.
These are great goals, and ooh, the empty nest… i’ll be right behind you. Right now I’m dreading it, but I know that after getting through the initial transition, there will be good things. Btw Gretchen Rubin has reframed the “empty nest” as the “open door” phase, as in, the door is open for them to leave, but also always open for them to return. I do know from experience that during the college years they come and go frequently, and that’s a good transition to the next phase (where they will eventually have their own homes and families!) Sigh… I know- It’s hard.
Great job growing a business like that! And I love your big running goals.
I LOVE the idea of the open door. He is welcome back any time, for any reason. This is always his home, whenever he needs it.
Thank you so much. Who knew this would work out for me so well!
I’m so happy for you about the pet sitting business. Such a perfect job for you! I’d be curious about whether such businesses exist in Ireland! Are there ways to make yourself trustworthy for new clients? Or do they go by word of mouth/your reputation? I’m asking because… we’re getting a kitten later this week!
A half marathon sounds like a good goal for you – didn’t you try that early this year and it was downgraded to a 10k or similar?
I wish you all the best for 2026!
Oh, a new kitten is so fun! I’ve done some pet sitting for friends, which was a great way to get some reviews and testimonials. And it helps that everyone in my neighborhood knows me as the lady who will stop her run for every dog. The Rover platform was a great way for me to get some visibility and they have their sitters pay for a background check, which gives a little bit of credibility. From there, it’s word of mouth and reviews. I also make it a point to meet most of my clients in advance so that we can all get a feel for each other. I wish you luck finding the right sitter!
Yes, I was going to do a half (I think it might have been last year, actually), and it didn’t work out. Not a huge deal, but it would be nice to get back to it.