Manage Those New Year’s Resolutions With This Easy Ombre DIY

Alright folks, it’s the end of January. You know what that means: It’s resolution-ditching season. Remember when you went a little overboard around the end of December and felt like “becoming a brain surgeon” was an attainable goal for 2016? It’s okay, we all think that sometimes. But for the remaining resolutions, the ones that actually feel tangible (like upgrading your digs), we’ve got a DIY that will help you manage all of that self-growth: a resolution wheel!

It’s just like a chore wheel minus the dish washing (unless that was a resolution of yours). We’re all about time management here at Brit + Co, and we like the idea of focusing on a single resolution each day instead of overwhelming yourself with all that ambition.

Materials:

— clock blank

— acrylic paint

— craft foam sheet

— paintbrush

— painter’s tape

— 2-inch screw

— gold paint pen

— scissors

— ruler

Instructions:

1. Evenly divide your wheel according to the number of resolutions.

2. Carefully tape off your first section and paint with a color of your choice.

3. Allow the paint to dry for at least 30 minutes, then carefully remove the masking tape.

4. Re-apply a new piece of masking tape along the edge of the first panel so the two colors will have a nice, clean edge.

5. Tape off the other side of the next panel.

6. Add a few drops of white to the original solid color and paint the panel with your newly mixed hue.

7. Repeat these steps until your wheel is completely painted.

8. Using the paint pen, write an individual resolution in each panel.

9. Draw and cut out an arrow shape of your choice from the foam sheet.

10. Trim a few pieces of foam sheet and glue them onto the back of the wheel. Allow the glue to dry for about 30 minutes.

11. Drill your wheel directly into your wall and leave about half of the screw out.

12. Glue your arrow onto the screw head.

Get your materials together and let’s get started!

Divide your wheel evenly using your pencil and ruler. We chose to divide our wheel into six equal panels for six resolutions.

Carefully tape off your first section and paint with a color of your choice. In order to achieve an ombre effect, you till incrementally add drops of white to your original. Allow the paint to dry for at least 30 minutes, then carefully remove the masking tape. Reapply a new piece of masking tape along the edge of the first panel so the two colors will have a nice, clean edge.

Tape off the other side of the next panel. Add a few drops of white to the original solid color and paint the panel with your newly mixed hue. Repeat these steps until your wheel is completely painted.

Your painted wheel should result in an ombre effect.

Using the paint pen, write an individual resolution in each panel. Have fun with hand lettering and graphic details!

We made sure to put down resolutions that felt achievable in one day.

Next, draw and cut out an arrow shape from the foam sheet. Make sure it’s large enough to hide the screw you’re using.

Trim a few pieces of foam sheet and glue them onto the back of the wheel. This will help keep the wheel from scuffing the wall. Allow the glue to dry for about 30 minutes.

Drill your wheel directly into the wall, but don’t drive the screw all the way in. Leave about half of the screw out.

Give your wheel a few test spins to make sure you left enough of the screw out of the wall.

And the last detail, of course, is to glue your arrow onto the screw head!

This is a great project to hang up by the entryway. Give it a spin and set your intention for the day before you head out the door!

The most effective way to accomplish anything is to divide and conquer, right? ;) Cheers to an improved (and more balanced) you!

What are some creative ways you’re using to stick to your resolutions? Show us your project by tagging us on Instagram and using the hashtag #iamcreative!

DIY Production and Styling: Marianne Koo
Photography: Brittany Griffin

The running joke the editorial team and I have is that millennials are tired of living during unprecedented times. From the pandemic to all the other massive moments the last few decades, I've felt like I've been living in a weird vortex for the...majority of my life.

Despite — and maybe sometimes because of — it all, it wasn't until my recent birthday that I realized I've grown a lot. I thought the things I learned in my 20s were clues I'd 'arrived' as a 30-something-year-old, but it turns out I still hadn't fully accepted that learning hard truths isn't always bad in the long run.

I do this weird thing where I tend to focus on things I feel have to be done instead of focusing on how far I've come, but that changed when I turned 33. For the first time, I didn't have a huge celebration that ended in anxiety on my birthday. I relaxed at home with a ton of comfort food, scary movies, and a list of 33 things I have to be grateful for. So, how did I get here?

Let's go back to the beginning of the year, shall we?

I Intentionally Dubbed 2024 My Personal Victory Year

Viridiana Rivera

I, like so many others, woke up on January 1st and decided it would be my year. I set intentional resolutions, goals, and even made sure to be specific about them. Similar to how I write in-depth articles, I broke them into the following sections:

  • Motherhood
  • Relationships
  • Career
  • Wellbeing
  • Spiritual

It's the first year I decided to listen to my heart's desires in order to capture a screenshot of the life I want to live. I even prayed over my resolutions and goals, asking to be guided as I accomplished things or were led to them. As February rolled around, I didn't really think twice about the impact of what I'd done because life started to fall into a familiar hum that becomes mundane after a while.

I guess I needed to be reminded of the intentional goals I'd written down because things got painfully interesting after this.

My First Adult Car Was Totaled

Gustavo Fring

Car accidents are never fun as I've been on the receiving end of one before, but this wasn't like before. This time I was emotionally hurt to learn the first car I'd assumed total responsibility for was no longer going to be mine. Though I knew I was lucky no one was seriously harmed, all I could think about is the morning I paid it off. I had every reason to spend the nice bonus I received from my last job, but I decided paying off my car mattered more in that moment.

This is the car that took me from my parents' home to living on my own, trips out of town, and days spent buckling a newborn into his carseat. For 8 years, this car and I were locked in like besties. It truly felt like we'd grown up together so to have it ripped away so suddenly was heartbreaking.

Even though the SUV I got was aligned with everything my fiancé and I were talking about, I couldn't appreciate it for a while because I all could see what was what I had.

I Took A Chance On A Full-Time Creative Career

George Milton

Once I started making peace with having a new vehicle, I started feeling the urge to leave my first adult job behind. I'd spent 10 years there, but it was becoming obvious that it was time to leave the nest. Similar to my first car, my co-workers watched me go from a wide-eyed college student to a confident adult. Though I learned so much there, I knew it wasn't where I wanted to be forever.

Deciding to leave what felt familiar was one of the scariest things I'd ever done and I spent days wondering if I'd made the right choice. It's not that writing wasn't lucrative, but I had to learn how to navigate a remote job that's been unlike any role I've had before. My imposter syndrome was in overdrive because I was waiting for the shoe to drop off my other foot.

Thoughts like "What if I'm not good enough" or "What if my co-workers hate me," plagued my mind because I couldn't believe I'd taken a chance on myself that seemed like it was working in my favor. That only happens in movies, right? In this case, wrong.

The same month I truly decided to focus on my writing career is when I interviewed Whoopi Goldberg. Since then, I've gone on to talk to different authors and even moderated my first book event in Atlanta. But, it still took a while for me to truly be grateful for the amazing things that's happened this year.

The Day I Turned 33 Put Everything Into Perspective

KoolShooters

PMS plagued me for the better part of last week, so I decided to listen to my body and not do anything for my birthday. I kept waiting for myself to feel disappointed for not getting dressed up, but the feeling never came. The sad part is I almost wanted it to because who doesn't want to celebrate their birthday?

It turns out that I did celebrate, even if it wasn't in the typical 'party and dinner' way.

Deciding to focus on feeling peaceful in my new space, I opened my journal and started writing 33 things I'm grateful for. I didn't think I could find that many things, but it got easier to start being appreciative of life instead of focusing on everything I'd even thought went wrong.

In between bites of pizza and cheesy bread, I dropped all expectations and started writing. The more I wrote, the happier I felt which makes me wonder why I didn't do this before. So, without further ado, here is everything I realized during my gratitude practice this year!

The Things I'm Most Grateful For Right Now: 

Brit + Co

"I'm grateful for quiet moments where I can hit the reset button when I need to."

Brit + Co

"I’m grateful for moments I’ve accepted accountability for my actions."

Brit + Co

"I’m grateful for having a supportive family and fiancé."

Brit + Co

"I'm grateful for forgiveness and chances to start over."

Brit + Co

"I’m grateful for the beauty and joy of reading."

Jade Rideout

  • I'm grateful for home-cooked meals.
  • I'm grateful for praying grandmothers.
  • I'm grateful for older siblings I get along with.
  • I'm grateful for reminders I'm not alone.
  • I'm grateful for the gift of writing.
  • I'm grateful for time spent in nature.
  • I'm grateful for having friends in my life who feel like family.
  • I'm grateful for my mom introducing me to therapy before my 20s.
  • I'm grateful for every day I wake up with air in my lungs.
  • I'm grateful for moments that cause me to slow down and think before acting.
  • I'm grateful for multiple seasons of growth.
  • I'm grateful for my first full-time writing job.
  • I'm grateful I work with one of the best teams ever.
  • I'm grateful for having access to food, shelter, and a transportation.
  • I'm grateful for having an active imagination.
  • I'm grateful for being able to watch my son grow.
  • I'm grateful for learning about the ins and outs of postpartum so I can help other new moms!
  • I'm grateful for having a new place to live that's cozy.
  • I'm grateful for watching the seasons change.
  • I'm grateful I get to learn what it means to have a healthy romantic relationship.
  • I'm grateful for boundaries.
  • I'm grateful for understanding my parents betters.
  • I'm grateful I'm still in tune with my inner kid.
  • I'm grateful for book clubs.
  • I'm grateful for the amazing authors I've come across.
  • I'm grateful for funny memes on social media.
  • I'm grateful for hot chocolate — yes, I'm serious.
  • I'm grateful for LIFE itself.

Ironically, some of the things I'm grateful for can serve as inspirational fall quotes — which is perfect since my birthday is days after the Autumn Equinox! Aside from that realization, I can genuinely say writing down what I'm grateful for made my birthday better than it's been in years.

I've been focusing on everything that can go right instead of comparing my life to other people and it's a welcomed change. Maybe this is just one of the perks of getting older. If so, sign me up for more birthdays like this!

Looking for more moments of inspiration? Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get them right in your inbox!

We’re always super pumped for a new season, because that means a whole new crop of shoe trends! Turns out, spring 2025 is bringing such a fresh energy to footwear – and you’ll be elated to know that all of this season’s trends blend style and the utmost comfort. From pops of pink to functional materials, the spring shoetrends for 2025 are anything but boring.

Get ready to step into spring with these 5 hottest shoe trends (with must-have styles)!

1. Pink Sneakers

ASOS

Adidas Originals Gazelle Bold Sneakers

Pink sneakers are simply so fun. They’re such a playful way to add a pop of color to your ‘fits, plus the color feels like an entire match for the spring season!

DSW

Puma Club II Era Sneakers

Soft pastels and bold bubblegum shades are popping up more and more in designer collections and streetwear, so they can easily span across both casual and dressy looks.

Free People

Keen Jasper Zionic Sneakers

Pair your pink sneaks with baggy or barrel jeans or even some overalls for an epic weekend outfit, or try ‘em out with a flowy sundress to add a sporty contrast!

2. Elevated Flip Flops

Target

Shade & Shore Palmer Square Toe Flip Flops

We all have that one pair of flip flops that has been through hell and back – and while they’re definitely okay to wear around the house to get chores done or check the mail, you can still sport some flip flops this season when it’s time to leave the house with more elevated styles.

OluKai

OluKai Tiare Leather Sandals

Flip flops are stepping up with fun square toes, platform soles, and luxe materials like leather. They offer the ease of a traditional flip flop, but with a more refined look.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Darcie Platform Flip Flops

Style your elevated flip flops with wide-leg linen pants and a fitted tank top for a polished, yet laidback look. They also wear well with slip dresses for an effortless vacation vibe.

3. Clogs

Camper

Camper Brutus Sandals

Clogs are totally making a comeback, and I am so here for it! With a blend of vintage charm and modern comfort, they’re super easy to wear with whatever outfit you want to pull off.

Free People

Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clogs

I like rocking my clogs with wide-leg jeans for an extra-cozy ‘fit.

SeaVees

SeaVees Bodega Clogs

They are also fun to style alongside some denim shorts and fun socks for a quirkier look!

4. Fisherman Sandals

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Flicker Clear Sandals

These strappy, utilitarian-style sandals balance full-on comfort and coolness for the springtime. Originally designed for seaside practicality, they’ve been reimagined in more sleek modern designs.

Free People

Dr. Martens Wrenlie Fisherman Sandals

The structured silhouette of fisherman sandals also undeniably complements the current trend of functional fashion.

Madewell

Madewell The Milano Fisherman Sandals

Try pairing them with tailored shorts and a breezy blouse, or wear them with a midi skirt and a fitted tee.

5. Shoe Charms

Free People

Free People Shoe Charm & Pin Pack

Shoe charms bring total personalization to footwear, whether it’s through charms for sneakers or ribbons on heels.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Shoelace Charms Set

This spring shoe trend taps into the revival of Y2K style and the rise of more and more playfulness with accessories.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Icon Shoe Charm Set

This spring shoe trend taps into the revival of Y2K style and the rise of more and more playfulness with accessories.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more trending fashion picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Between work commitments, grocery runs, and coffee dates, it feels like we barely have time to even make it to the gym. So when we do actually get our gear and go amid all these responsibilities (hello, 2024 New Year’s resolution), who can blame us for simply wanting to skip straight to cardio, burn as many calories as we can in 30 minutes, and then bounce? Unfortunately, this is a super ill-advised way to exercise, because it means you’re skimping on an essential part of the workout routine: stretching. Although adding a warmupmight mean tacking an extra 20 minutes onto your workout (you can do it!), the numerous benefits should make integrating stretching into your gym time a no-brainer. Nichole Tipps — lead trainer for V Shred, a virtual fitness training program — offers us some insight about the importance of stretching.


Everything You Need To Know About Stretching During A Workout

1. Why to Stretch: It’s not just for gym rats. According to Tipps, all of us, no matter how athletically inclined, should be incorporating stretching into our schedules.

“Many people ignore stretching when working out or just as a daily routine,” she says. “Stretching has an array of health benefits that serve as building blocks for longevity and physical well-being.”

Stretching increases flexibility, which improves range of motion in addition to improving workouts, and it delays the effects of atrophy later in life. It also aids posture and relieves stress. In terms of exercising, stretching has advantages both pre- and post-workout.

“Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles and improves your circulation,” explains Tipps. Because of this, failing to stretch beforehand can result in injury, and neglecting to do it afterward can lead to enhanced soreness and a longer recovery period. You’re also making yourself more susceptible to pain, inflammation, and tension in general, Tipps warns.

2. When to Stretch: Most people are at least vaguely aware of the benefits of stretching, but a lot of confusion surrounds when to actually do it during a workout. Contrary to popular belief, the heavy-duty stretching should be reserved for when you’ve finished exercising.

“After your workout is a better time to stretch with more dedication,” Tipps confirms. “Your muscles are tense, and they are tired and stressed in a good way. So stretching can help relieve that tension and reduce the soreness that results from working a muscle.”

Allot 10-15 minutes for these post-sweat stretches. Before your workout, simply stretch lightly, keeping the time to less than 10 minutes.

“Ease your muscles into the idea that you will be challenging them to perform,” Tipps instructs.

3. What to Stretch: Both of these stretch seshes should always address your arms, legs, and back, regardless of what areas that workout focuses on.

“There are different parts to each of these areas, so concentrate on those that your workout calls for that day, but don’t neglect everything else altogether either,” advises Tipps. “Remember, a lot of workout routines include compound exercises, which are multi-joint movements that work several muscles at one time.”

Although stretching might initially seem like yet another chore to add to your to-do list, its benefits are invaluable enough to no longer ignore. As Tipps encourages, “Stretch regularly, and over time you will reap the benefits and maintain your mobility.”

How do you stretch when working out?

There are quite a few stretches you can do when working out depending on what your body needs. No matter what you end up going with, remember not to force it — stretching should, well, stretch your muscles, but it shouldn't be painful! Check out these Pro Tips To Reach Your 2024 Fitness Goals, The Best At-Home Workouts, and 9 Easy Stretches You Can Do To Exercise At Your Desk for more ideas!

Is it better to stretch during or after a workout?

Nichole Tipps recommends saving your more intense stretches for after a workout. But don't be afraid to do a few easy stretches beforehand!

What’s your favorite stretch during a workout? Let us know on social media!

This article has been updated.

All images via Brit + Co

The highly-anticipated A Court of Thorns and Roses movie may be canceled, but Sarah J. Maas pulled an uno reverse card that makes up for it. ACOTAR book 6 is in the works and may be here within the next year! As immense lovers of Onyx Storm, we're willing to set that series aside in favor of this one. Call it a hot take, but we think it has arguably one of the best takes onromantasy.

If you're just as excited as we about a new ACOTAR book, let's chat about what's to come!

Everything to know about Sarah J. Maas' plans for the ACOTAR universe, plus fan theories about book 6 👀

Is 'ACOTAR' a BookTok famous series?

Amazon

BookTok is the reason we love the ACOTAR series so much. All it takes is a quick search on TikTok to see how many fan theories, memes, and hot takes exist within its realm. Have an intense dislike for the way Feyre's siblings failed her after their mother died? There's a video for that. Want to see hilarious depictions of the Suriel? You won't be disappointed!

But, I've never read anything in the series? What's it about? 

We thought you'd never ask! A Court of Thorns and Roses introduces readers to the thin line that separates humankind from the mythical world, but boundaries are crossed when a young woman named Feyre unknowingly commits a grave offense. As her family's only hope for survival, she slays a wolf who happens to be a close friend of one of the many high fae in ACOTAR.

As repayment for her "terrible" deed, she's whisked away from everything she knows to live the rest of her life in the spring court. But Feyre soon learns that politics and evil aren't just relegated to humans because she's subject to torment that turns her into what's she still trying to understand.

Throughout each book, we watch as Feyre comes to grips with who she thought she could trust, her perception of herself, and the consequences of each choice she makes.

Knowing this, what will ACOTAR book 6 be about? 

Don't panic, but ACOTAR'ssixth book doesn't have a plot yet! The only sliver of hope we have stems from Sarah J. Maas' appearance on the TODAY show last year. She said, "I know much more about what’s happening in this one. And then the next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them.”

Has Sarah J. Maas shared a release date for ACOTAR book 6? 

Sorry, but she hasn't shared a release date for ACOTAR book 6 either! The TODAY show speculates "readers will have to wait a year or two" which makes sense.

What theories do fans have about the next book? 

Fans believe Sarah J. Maas dropped a massive hint about what to expect in her collab video with Spotify last year. Instagram user @just.innis wrote, "Hear me out: spilled the tea, spring, two rings on the same fingers (rose and blue), flowers and doors behind her, "a looong book" ("...Azriel’s wings are the biggest." if you know what I mean), soon... 👀📚🤯."

If you're not familiar, E! News reported this could be an indication that Feyre's sister Elain and Azriel, one of Rhysand's right-hand-men, will get the love story fans have been waiting for. Most fans are in agreement because this Reddit thread dives deeper into the potential lore. @plantsandanimalsdude wrote, "I think …. Elain will decide to reject her mating bond and choose Azriel, taking control over her life after losing her humanity and engagement to a man SHE chose."

A separate Reddit thread starts off with a belief ACOTAR book 6 will be a follow-up to Nesta's story (Feyre and Elain's eldest sister). User@PrestigiousFun782wrote, "...it's pretty clear that Nesta's plot is not done yet. For that my theory is that she will learn a lot about her powers and maybe she would leave the night court..."

However, nothing's set in stone. The only thing Sara J. Maas promised is that ACOTAR book 6 is "going to be a long book."

OMG, I want to catch up on ACOTAR! Where do I start?

Amazon

  • A Court of Thorns and Roses(Book One) — An introduction to Feyre, the high faes, and danger!
  • A Court of Mist and Fury(Book Two) — An exploration of Feyre's conflicted feelings about marrying Tamlin, her growing understanding of Rhysand, and an even darker evil
  • A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book Three) — A tale of 'sleeping with the enemy' to gain important intel that'll save Feyre's new home, albeit with damning consequences that changes everything
  • A Court of Frost and Starlight (Book Four) — A story of rebuilding and healing after mass devastation
  • A Court of Silver Flames (Book Five) — A close look at Nesta Acheron's journey as she learns to accept who she is, how she'll spend the rest of her life, and who she'll come to love

Follow us on Facebook for more updates about ACOTAR book 6!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Scalloped edges are everywhere in home decor right now, adding major charm to walls, floors, and furniture. This throwback trend leans into the cottage and romantic home decor with classic ribbons, ruffles, checks and stripes making rooms just a little more whimsical, interesting, and modern. Want to embrace the scallop trend in your own home decor? It's all about sprinkling soft, curved edges into your space for a playful, yet sophisticated look – and it's totally affordable to do.

Here are 16 chic ways to add the cute scallop trend to your home decor!

Urban Outfitters

UO Scallop Flush Mount Lamp Shade

Refresh your ceiling lighting with an oversized drum shade with scalloped edges. You'll enjoy the view from the top!

BelArte

BelArte Studio Scallop Wall Mural

Make a bold statement in your dining room, entryway or bedroom with this customized wall mural featuring stripes within decorative scalloped frames, so cute!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Wiggle Switch Plate

A small detail like a scalloped switch plate adds just the right amount of whimsy to a space without spending a ton of dough.

H&M

H&M Metal Wall Shelf

Shelving is a great way to add this fun decorative detail while adding some functionality to your space.

Amazon

Amazon Scallop Bath Rug

Brighten your bath with a scalloped edge in cozy cotton.

Target

Threshold x Studio McGee Gingham Scalloped Outdoor Pillow

Refresh your outdoor space for spring with this gingham scalloped-edge outdoor pillow from Threshold x Studio McGee. Made from recycled polyester, its weather-, UV-, water- and fade-resistant so you can enjoy all season long.

Amazon

Amazon Scalloped Wicker Storage

Stow away toiletries, pantry items, and other essentials in this set of four storage baskets with cute scalloped edges.

Target

Threshold x Studio McGee Scalloped Headboard

This scalloped headboard comes in several colors and prints as well as sizes twin, double, and queen, all under $300.

Amazon

Mayler Yee Scallop Throw Pillow

This set of two shams for just $20 would look great on a newly refreshed spring bed.

Amazon

Modway Emmeline Scallop Desk

Scalloped furniture is all the rage. This charming writing desk is the perfect addition to your guest or kids room.

Urban Outfitters

UO Roma Scalloped 3-Seater Sofa

Playfully modern, this upholstered scallop sofa is sure to get admiring looks from your decor-loving guests.

H&M

H&M Scalloped-edge Lampshade

Dress up your end table or desk lamps with a pretty-in-pink scalloped lampshade.

Etsy

Etsy Scallop Rattan Window Pelmet

Frame windows with a beautiful scallop design for a charming touch.

Etsy

Etsy Vintage Scalloped Edge Ribbon

Love to DIY? Sew a scalloped ribbon to a tablecloth or curtain or simply tie them around curtain rods and vases for a creative look.

Urban Walls

Urban Walls Scalloped Border Wall Decal

This scalloped border comes in varying sizes and colors for a custom look you don't have to paint. It's so easy!

Amazon

Amazon Scallop Jute Rug

Turn a simple jute rug into a decorative showstopper with a cute scalloped edge. It's the best way to anchor a room and inspire your decor!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.