Blogs by Ella Fisher

As the days grow shorter and darkness creeps in earlier, I can't help but feel my energy drain away like a smartphone at 1% battery. I mean, take my dog's training classes, for instance. Normally, I'd be all in, treats and all. But lately, I catch myself staring out the window and thinking, "Do I really have to go out? Maybe it'll be canceled. Please let it be canceled." Yep, that's me—Miss Optimism, having not-so-positive thoughts.

It's not just the training sessions, though. Sunshine, or rather the lack of it, messes with my vibe. The only things that still spark some energy are day trips with my girls and work (because if I couldn’t muster energy for that, we’d have a bigger problem). Writing? Forget it. Okay, maybe I jot a bit on my phone here and there, but let's be real—if that thing dies on me without syncing, I'd lose it all.

So yeah, this is me, unfiltered and unbothered by the occasional bout of gloom. What do I do about it? Accept it, let it be, and trust it'll pass. But let’s not forget: I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t get at least a little creative with my mood. Case in point? Writing this blog.

2025 Goals: You Can Never Start Too Early

Yep, I’m already planning my New Year’s resolutions because why wait? Here’s my list—both practical and sprinkled with just the right amount of sass.

1. Stop Pouring Energy Into the Wrong People

I have this knack for giving my energy to anyone and everyone, even the ones who don’t deserve it. This stops now. People who bring excuses to the table instead of effort? Bye! I’ll match your energy. Treat me well? I’ll mirror that back. Give me less-than? Watch me moonwalk out of your life.

2. Schedule “Phone-Free” Moments

My phone and I have an unhealthy relationship. I scroll when I should be writing or just... breathing. So, in 2025, I’m blocking out time—real, calendar-notified moments—where I put the phone down and rediscover the luxury of not being reachable. Spoiler: It’s liberating.

3. More Fun, Less FOMO

The plan? More theaters, concerts, trips, parties, and dancing like no one’s watching (which they probably are, but who cares?). Life’s too short for regrets—or sensible footwear.

4. Write More, Phone Less

Let’s be clear: this should be at the top of my list. I’ve written tons this year, but not for my book. Instead, I’ve wasted hours texting and emailing. Imagine what I could’ve achieved if I’d redirected that energy. Well, 2025 is the year I stop imagining and start doing.

The Year of Tougher Boundaries

2025 will also be the year where I get tougher. People always say, "You’re so chatty and positive, always such a ray of sunshine." And while that’s nice to hear, let me tell you—it doesn’t always get me what I want.

Next year, I’ll set even clearer boundaries, and I’ve already planned the perfect way to kick this off: my very own mini-vacation. Okay, technically it’s not a vacation, but a creative getaway—a week to focus entirely on myself and my writing. Sure, life with kids and school pickups doesn’t stop, but in January, I’m carving out some serious me time. My phone? Off. Entirely. For a whole week. Don’t call me—I won’t answer. Bliss, right?

Intentions for 2025: Manifesting Good Vibes Only

Intentions aren’t just resolutions; they’re the vibes you set to attract the life you want. Here’s what I’m manifesting next year:

• The Right People: Friends, colleagues, or even strangers who light up the room (and my life).
• Inspiration in Unexpected Places: Because creativity thrives on surprises.
• Starting and Finishing Projects: No more half-baked ideas.
• Being Unapologetically Me: Positivity, quirkiness, and all.
• Spontaneous Adventures: From random road trips to coffee dates that turn into all-day escapades.

Thinking about all this already makes me smile. Writers are weird like that; we see a list and immediately dream up scenarios where all the good stuff happens.

How to Brighten Up the Gloomy Days

When the blues hit, I’ve learned to lean into little joys. Here’s what works for me:

• Comedy Binge: Adam Sandler movies or stand-up specials that make me laugh until my sides hurt.
• Happy Tunes Playlist: Songs tied to great memories or just so good they make my soul dance.
• Cooking Experiments: Whipping up something new always sparks joy—and hunger.
• Writing Therapy: Blogs, musings, even silly notes—it all helps.
• Connection Time: Coffee dates, random acts of kindness, or just hanging out with people who lift me up.

What About You?

What do you do to shake off the winter blues? Got any hacks to add to my lists? Looking forward to your list - let me know.