I know it’s cliché.

Trust me.

But the red and green cups at the major coffee chains get me super excited every winter. I can’t resist! They’re so fun, festive and fancy. For whatever reason, they bring me a little extra comfort and joy during the holidays. I think everyone has those special guilty pleasures that lift their spirits and make them happy.  

Problem is, while my delicious drink may seem like a small purchase every morning, it’s actually a pretty big expense.

At $5 per pop, my lavish latte ends up costing me way more than I care to admit most weeks. The math isn’t friendly. In fact, when I looked it up, I was shocked to learn that women spend close to $2,500 annually for a premium java. I don’t need espresso to wake up and function, but I do love the aroma. I also believe it’s important to indulge and treat yourself for working so hard; you have to live life. As I get older, though, I’m beginning to realize that it’s finally time to cut back and only splurge in moderation.

So, I’ve been thinking. With 2022 here, I’m ready to take my savings game — and my golf game, too! — to the next level.

For the record, I’ve never been a huge “New Year’s resolution” fan. I’ve always just relied on setting fearless goals and evaluating my progress along the way. In my mind, January 1 is all about watching college football and celebrating with family. But after enduring an up and down 2021, both in my personal and professional world, I can’t wait to hit the reset button and challenge myself. I’m eager to step out of my comfort zone and make several positive changes to improve my financial, mental and physical well-being.

Now that the calendar has turned to 2022, I’ve decided to hone in on two different New Year’s resolutions, in addition to exercising more and limiting my social media and streaming usage. No matter what happens, no excuses. I’m going to stay focused and give it my best shot, which is the same attitude I play with on the LPGA Tour.

Here goes nothing!

RESOLUTION 1: ‘BREW IT MYSELF’

I’m not a barista.

I’m a golfer.

However, as I’ve confessed before, I’m also a foodie at heart. I truly enjoy being in the kitchen and preparing a yummy meal for dinner. It’s an amazing feeling. With my passion for cooking, I figured I could put my culinary skills to the test by whipping up my favorite frothy joe from home. Not only will it be more fun, but it will likely be a much cheaper option than stopping at Starbucks on my way to the course. If I can serve up a plate of tasty Thai spring rolls, I can absolutely steam up a hot gourmet beverage.

To gain more control of my money in 2022, I’m going to try hard to bypass the coffeehouse drive-thru and instead lean on my creative abilities to calm my caffeine cravings. You’d be surprised at how many grocery stores actually sell all the signature ingredients, flavors and syrups. Yes, even pumpkin spice! Stocking up will allow me to mimic some of the most popular recipes while saving some cash in the process.  

Where I come from, that’s definitely a win-win.

RESOLUTION 2: ‘PRACTICE TO MAKE PERFECT’

I got off to such a hot start in 2021.

In my first event of the year, the Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions, I finished in a tie for fifth place after I posted a 16-under-par 268. I then followed up that feat with several more strong performances, highlighted by a great effort at the Kia Classic in late March. I was proud, confident and motivated — and hungry for more success. But this sport has a way of humbling every player on the LPGA Tour.

Myself included.  

Even though I gave 110% on every hole, I didn’t meet my individual expectations when it was all said and done.

During the grind of a long schedule in 2021, with so many highs and lows, I think I lost sight of who I am as a competitor and what makes me a talented athlete. I’m human, after all! My short game has always made me tough to beat, but it was too inconsistent last season. It was hard for me to find a steady groove.

In 2022, my intention is to flip the script. I plan on dedicating a specific amount of time during my normal practice routine to fine-tune my craft, technique and accuracy when it comes to chipping and putting. Weaving in some tried-and-true drills will hopefully help me develop better habits as I move forward and grow in my career. Simply put, I’m going to get back to basics — and get back to being Cheyenne.

Those are my New Year’s resolutions.

What are yours?

Readings to start the new year off right:
Top New Year financial resolutions
A simple savings plan for the new year
The power of mindful spending

More “Knight Life”
Fun and Focus
Recipe for Success
Goals for the Game of Life