New Year, BETTER Me

Start the New Year with a goal you can actually accomplish

Every year when the clock strikes midnight people always promise to commit to their New Year resolutions. A fun pastime that inspires us to be a better person, and hopefully as a result make the new year better too. I have always been fascinated with this tradition and did some research. According to Forbes nearly 60% of Americans make New Year’s Resolutions. Unfortunately, only 25% of them commit up to thirty days and only 8% complete their goals.

           

We here at McKenna Property Management love to set goals, so we want to give you our not-so-secret guide to goal and resolution success. It is called the SMART method and SMART stands for:


  • Specific: Well-defined, clear, and unambiguous
  • Measurable: With specific criteria that measure your progress toward the accomplishment of the goal
  • Achievable: Attainable and not impossible to achieve
  • Realistic: Within reach, realistic, and relevant to your life purpose
  • Timely: With a clearly defined timeline, including a starting date and a target date. The purpose is to create urgency


These five categories are a tried and true equation to accomplish goals, whether that be for work or personal life.


First, to achieve your goals you need to be specific.  Goals that are specific have a significantly greater chance of being accomplished. To make a goal specific, the five “W” questions must be considered:


  • Who: Who is involved in this goal?
  • What: What do I want to accomplish?
  • Where: Where is this goal to be achieved?
  • When: When do I want to achieve this goal?
  • Why: Why do I want to achieve this goal?


For example, a general goal would be “I want to get in shape.” A more specific goal would be “I want to obtain a gym membership at my local community center and work out four days a week to be healthier.”


Next, your goal must be measurable. If there are no criteria, you will not be able to determine your progress and if you are on track to reach your goal. To make a goal measurable, ask yourself:


  • How many/much?
  • How do I know if I have reached my goal?
  • What is my indicator of progress?

 

For example, building on the specific goal above: I want to obtain a gym membership at my local community center and work out four days a week to be healthier. Every week, I will aim to lose one pound of body fat.


Once your goal is specific and measurable, it needs to be achievable and attainable. This will help you figure out ways you can realize that goal and work towards it. The achievability of the goal should be stretched to make you feel challenged, but defined well enough that you can actually achieve it. Ask yourself:


  • Do I have the resources and capabilities to achieve the goal? If not, what am I missing?
  • Have others done it successfully before?


If you’ve never cooked a day in your life don’t make your goal to make Beef Wellington, start with something attainable like chicken noodle soup, or lasagna.

 

The next part of a goal that helps increase your chances of succeeding is if it is realistic. This means that the goal can be realistically achieved given the available resources and time. A SMART goal is likely realistic if you believe that it can be accomplished. Ask yourself:


  • Is the goal realistic and within reach?
  • Is the goal reachable, given the time and resources?
  • Are you able to commit to achieving the goal?


Last, but not least, make sure your goal is timely in that it has a start and finish date. If the goal is not time-constrained, there will be no sense of urgency and, therefore, less motivation to achieve the goal. Ask yourself:


  • Does my goal have a deadline?
  • By when do you want to achieve your goal?

 

For example, building on the goal above: On August 1, I will obtain a gym membership at my local community center. In order to be healthier, I will work out four days a week. Every week, I will aim to lose one pound of body fat. By the end of August, I will have realized my goal if I lose four pounds of fat over the course of the month.


The last piece of advice I will give is something Jenni, the broker of McKenna Property Management, told me which is to always write down your goals. Make it tangible and put it in writing. Keep yourself responsible by taking it out of your mind and into real life. With all these ingredients you are sure to make a goal or resolution this New Year's that you can follow-through on and complete.

The Mental Health Boost of Getting Outdoors in Las Vegas This Fall and Winter

October 27, 2025
When it comes to improving mental health, one of the most powerful — and often overlooked — tools is right outside your front door. Spending time outdoors has been proven to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being. The combination of natural light, fresh air, and movement helps regulate your body’s rhythm, increase serotonin, and clear mental fog.  And in Las Vegas, fall and winter are the perfect seasons to take advantage of the outdoors. With cooler temperatures and clear desert skies, you can enjoy everything the area has to offer without the intense summer heat. Why Outdoor Time Matters It’s easy to underestimate how much our surroundings impact our state of mind. When we step outside — away from screens, routines, and enclosed spaces — our senses wake up. The sound of gravel underfoot, the warmth of sunlight, and the wide-open views all help quiet racing thoughts and bring perspective. Outdoor activities don’t have to be strenuous to have an impact. Even a simple walk in nature can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve focus. The key is consistency — making time to regularly connect with nature, especially during months when we tend to stay indoors more often. Outdoor Fall and Winter Activities Around Las Vegas 1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Just a short drive from the city, Red Rock Canyon is a local favorite for hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives. In the cooler months, you can explore its trails comfortably while surrounded by stunning sandstone formations. The vast, open desert landscape encourages mindfulness and helps reset your mental focus. 2. Mount Charleston and Lee Canyon About an hour from Las Vegas, Mount Charleston offers a completely different environment — pine forests, crisp mountain air, and even snow in winter. Whether you’re taking a quiet hike or spending a day skiing or tubing at Lee Canyon, the change of scenery is rejuvenating. It’s a reminder that calm and beauty are just a short drive away. 3. Valley of Fire State Park This park’s dramatic red rock formations and winding trails are breathtaking year-round, but fall and winter are ideal for exploring without the heat. The peaceful atmosphere and striking views make it a great place to recharge and practice mindfulness in motion. 4. Goldstrike and Arizona Hot Springs For those seeking something a bit more adventurous, the hot springs near the Hoover Dam offer a unique desert experience. A moderate hike leads you to naturally heated pools — a perfect combination of physical activity, nature, and relaxation. 5. Local Parks and Outdoor Markets Not every outdoor escape requires a road trip. Las Vegas is filled with local parks, gardens, and seasonal markets that make it easy to enjoy fresh air close to home. A morning walk at Sunset Park or an afternoon at a fall farmers market can do wonders for your mental reset. Prioritizing outdoor time isn’t just about exercise — it’s about balance. The act of stepping outside, breathing deeply, and letting your surroundings ground you can have lasting effects on your mental health. This fall and winter, take advantage of the season’s mild weather and make time to explore the natural beauty around Las Vegas. Whether it’s a mountain hike, a hot spring soak, or a peaceful stroll through the park, your mind and body will thank you for it.

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.