Set Yourself Up for Success in 2025!

Forget Resolutions: Why You Should Choose a Yearly Theme Instead

As January approaches, social media becomes flooded with posts about New Year's resolutions. You know the ones: "Get fit," "Save money," "Learn a new language." Yet by February, most of these well-intentioned goals are already abandoned. What if there was a better way to approach personal growth? Enter the Theme System.


What Is the Theme System?

The Theme System, popularized by CGP Grey and Myke Hurley through their podcast Cortex, offers a refreshingly different approach to annual self-improvement. Instead of setting rigid, specific goals, you choose a broad theme that serves as a guiding principle for your decisions throughout the year.


Think of a theme as a lens through which you view your choices. While a resolution might be "go to the gym three times a week," a theme might be "The Year of Health." This subtle but powerful difference changes how you approach personal development.


Why Themes Work Better Than Resolutions

Flexibility Over Rigidity

Traditional resolutions often fail because they're too rigid. Miss a week at the gym, and you've "failed" your resolution. With a theme like "The Year of Health," every decision becomes an opportunity to align with your theme. Maybe you can't make it to the gym, but you can take the stairs instead of the elevator or choose a salad over fast food.


Process Over Outcomes

Resolutions typically focus on specific outcomes: lose 20 pounds, save $5,000, read 52 books. Themes, however, emphasize the process of improvement. A "Year of Learning" might lead you to read books, take courses, or try new hobbies – all valid ways to pursue your theme.


Mindset Over Metrics

While metrics can be useful, they can also be demotivating when we fall short. Themes shift the focus from numerical targets to mindset changes. Instead of tracking specific numbers, you ask yourself, "Does this choice align with my theme?"


How to Choose Your Theme

  1. Reflect on Your Past Year: Start by reviewing the previous year. What worked? What didn't? What patterns do you notice? What areas of your life feel neglected or need attention?
  2. Identify Areas for Growth: Look for broad categories where you'd like to see improvement. These might include health, relationships, career, creativity, learning, or personal organization.
  3. Consider Your Current Season of Life: Your theme should align with your life circumstances. If you're starting a new job, perhaps "The Year of Foundation" would be appropriate. If you've been feeling stuck, maybe "The Year of Adventure" would provide the right push.
  4. Keep It Simple: Your theme should be easy to remember and apply. It should feel like a natural filter for your decisions, not another item on your to-do list.


Implementing Your Theme

Once you've chosen your theme, implementation is surprisingly straightforward:


  • Create Visual Reminders: Put your theme somewhere you'll see it daily – your phone wallpaper, a sticky note on your mirror, or your journal cover.
  • Use It as a Decision-Making Tool: When faced with choices, ask yourself, "What would the person living my theme do?"
  • Regular Check-Ins: Schedule monthly reviews to reflect on how your theme is influencing your choices and what adjustments you might need to make.
  • Share Your Theme: Tell friends or family about your theme. This creates accountability and might inspire others to adopt the system.


Example Themes and Their Applications

  • The Year of Less
  • Decluttering your space
  • Simplifying your schedule
  • Reducing digital consumption
  • Mindful spending


  • The Year of Connection
  • Prioritizing family time
  • Reaching out to old friends
  • Joining community groups
  • Being more present in conversations


  • The Year of Creativity
  • Trying new hobbies
  • Taking on different projects at work
  • Finding creative solutions to problems
  • Expressing yourself through various mediums


As you approach the new year, consider breaking free from the resolution cycle. Choose a theme that resonates with your aspirations and current life situation. Remember, the beauty of the Theme System lies in its flexibility and focus on continuous improvement rather than rigid goals.

The system acknowledges that life is complex and changing. Some weeks you'll feel highly aligned with your theme; others, less so. That's not failure – it's reality. What matters is having a north star to guide your decisions and help you grow in the direction you want to go.


So, what will your theme be this year?

5 Things to Do Before Moving Into Your New Home as a Renter

October 16, 2025
Moving into a new place is always exciting — but before you start unpacking boxes and planning your first cozy night in, there are a few important steps to make sure your move goes smoothly. These tasks not only help protect you as a renter, but also ensure your new home is set up exactly how you want it from day one. 1. Complete Your Property Condition Report Before you move anything in, take the time to carefully go through your new home and document its condition. Check for scratches, dents, stains, or anything that looks worn or damaged. Take photos and note details in your property condition report. This protects you later when it’s time to move out — you’ll have proof of what was there before you arrived. This report should be sent to your move in representative, but make sure to keep a copy for yourself as well! 2. Set Up Your Utilities and Services Don’t wait until move-in day to realize you don’t have utilities on in your name. Contact the utility providers (electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, internet, etc.) a few days before you move to ensure everything is activated and transferred into your name. It’s also a good time to schedule services like cable or Wi-Fi installation so you’re not waiting days without connection. If you aren't sure what utility companies you need to call, ask your property manager before you are set to move in. 3. Review Your Lease and Rules One More Time Even if you already signed your lease, give it another look before moving in. Double-check details like rent due dates, late fees, parking rules, and maintenance responsibilities. Make sure you understand what’s expected — especially things like pet policies, noise rules, and how to request repairs. Knowing this now can help you avoid misunderstandings later. 4. Change or Set Up Your Mailing Address Update your address with USPS, your bank, subscriptions, and any services that regularly send you mail or packages. It’s a small step that prevents missed bills, lost deliveries, or delays in important correspondence. You can even set up mail forwarding through USPS to make the transition seamless. 5. Do a Deep Clean Before Unpacking Even if your new home looks spotless, it’s always worth doing a quick clean before you move your belongings in. Wipe down surfaces, clean cabinets, sanitize bathrooms, and vacuum floors. It’s much easier to get into every corner before furniture and boxes fill the space — and it’ll instantly make your new home feel fresher and truly yours. Final Tip: Take this time to also introduce yourself to your neighbors and your property manager. Building that connection early can make your rental experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Farmers Markets in Las Vegas!

October 7, 2025
Las Vegas might be known for its bright lights and endless buffets, but there’s another side to the city—one filled with fresh produce, artisan goods, and local charm. Whether you’re a foodie, a weekend wanderer, or just someone who loves supporting small businesses, the farmers markets around town are worth adding to your weekend plans. Downtown Summerlin Farmers Market is one of the most popular stops. Every Saturday, the Pavilion fills up with stalls offering colorful produce, homemade breads, and local honey. It’s a great way to kick off your weekend—especially if you follow it with brunch or shopping at the surrounding stores. Over in Henderson, The District at Green Valley Ranch hosts its own market on Thursdays. It’s a relaxed midweek option with a nice mix of fresh goods and handmade crafts. If you’re nearby, it’s the perfect excuse for a stroll under the trees and maybe a coffee from one of the local cafés.  A newer addition to the scene is The UnCommons Farmers Market , held every Sunday. This modern, walkable community brings together local growers and makers in a trendy setting that feels more like a neighborhood festival than a typical market. Think small-batch jams, fresh flowers, and a few friendly pups in tow. If you’re looking for variety, Fresh52 Farmers & Artisan Markets pop up all over the valley—from Skye Canyon and Southern Highlands to Floyd Lamb Park. Each location has its own local flavor, but all share the same goal: connecting locals with farm-fresh produce and handcrafted goods. For a more immersive experience, head to The Las Vegas Farm . Open every weekend, this working farm offers local produce, fresh eggs, and even the chance to meet a few friendly animals. It’s a family favorite and a reminder that Las Vegas is more than desert—it’s also a growing community of local producers. No matter where you go, here are a few quick tips: arrive early for the best selection, bring a reusable bag (and a little cash), and take a moment to chat with the vendors. Many are small family operations happy to share recipes, storage tips, and what’s coming into season next. Exploring farmers markets in Las Vegas is a refreshing reminder that community thrives here, even in the middle of the desert. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for dinner or simply soaking in the atmosphere, each market offers a little taste of local life—Vegas style.

Spooktacular Fun: Halloween Traditions and the Annual McKenna Boo Bash!

September 30, 2025
Halloween is a time for spooky fun, creative costumes, and sweet treats—a holiday that brings communities together in celebration of all things eerie and festive. From carving pumpkins and trick-or-treating to attending costume parties, Halloween traditions have evolved over centuries, blending folklore, community spirit, and a love for all things playful and mysterious. Here at McKenna Property Management, we’re excited to carry on the tradition in our own way with our Annual McKenna Boo Bash ! This year, we’re inviting everyone to join us at our office on October 31st from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM for a fun-filled celebration. Here’s what you can expect at the Boo Bash: Costumes Galore: Our team will be decked out in creative costumes, and we encourage visitors to come dressed up too! However, it is not required! Prizes for Everyone: This year, we will be awarding prizes to add an extra layer of excitement. Spooktacular Office Decor: Our offices will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland, full of festive decorations and surprises. Candy for All: No Halloween event is complete without treats—come grab some candy and enjoy the sweet side of the season. Halloween is all about community, creativity, and a little bit of magic, and the McKenna Boo Bash is our way of celebrating the season with our neighbors, clients, residents, and friends. Whether you’re stopping by to show off your costume, enjoy some candy, or just soak in the festive atmosphere, we can’t wait to see you! Mark your calendars for October 31st from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM , and join us for a fun, safe, and memorable Halloween right here at McKenna Property Management—where the spirit of the season comes alive!