setting personal goals post-grad (+ my super affordable workspace)

exact rug /// exact pillow cover  /// exact chair /// exact table

Last week my friend Natalie and I were discussing goals and projects we are currently working on outside the office. It was then I had the realization how hard it can be to create my own goals post grad. For so long, my goals were centered around my GPA, a percentage on a test, a grade in a class, or some numerical value related to my degree. Now, I have the freedom and time (some days) to set and work on personal goals, instead of running around like a crazy lady in school full-time working two part time jobs. Natalie and I agreed that while these goals can be more challenging to create and achieve, they are also significantly more rewarding, since we are actively choosing to pursue them. Sure, scoring a 97% on test is rewarding, but did you really, truly want to take that test in the first place?

I’m lucky in the sense that I never have to take my work home with me. But unlucky in the sense that I am extremely unfulfilled (and dare I say…bored) at my current position. Because of this, I’ve been focusing more on what I personally want to accomplish and how I am going to do so. Last Thursday, amidst my life goal day dreaming, I decided I needed an at-home workspace to help me accomplish these goals. And naturally, in Maddy fashion, I decided I needed it that night.

After a bit of online research I decided I would brave IKEA alone, with hopes of coming out alive (and spending less than $150!). I managed to do both in under 45 minutes (victory dance) then proceeded to head home, build all the furniture, rearrange our living & dining spaces to make room for my new desk, and vacuum the entire area in the process. My hopes of being in bed by 10pm soon turned in midnight because I was far too excited not to build my new desk set up. But, I can confidently say that the chair and table are quite easy to build!

As I further develop my personal goals I’ll be sharing them here, but I’m curious to hear from you all – have you set an specific personal goals? What is something you’re working toward?

Let me know!

xo, Maddy

Here are  a few items on my desk (full essie gel polish review coming soon!):