Ahh! January! The month of fresh starts, crisp mornings and hope for the new year! While some might see January as a dreary, post Christmas slump, others see it as a blank canvas, a chance to set the tone for the months ahead. Here are some ways that you can start the year and make 2025 the best year yet!
Set Goals, not resolutions!
Resolutions often end up abandoned by February so why not focus on meaningful goals? Start by writing a list of things you’d love to achieve this year. I do this with my post "This time next year". A goal is more achievable than trying to stick to doing something every day!
Create a winter bucket list!
Who says bucket lists are just for summer? January is the perfect time to embrace the season. Add cosy activities like having a hot chocolate tasting night, going on a frosty woodland walk or trying your hand at a new winter recipe! If you’re feeling adventurous why not book an ice skating session or something more active!
Refresh your space!
A tidy home equals a tidy mind, right? January is a brilliant time to declutter, reorganise and refresh your living space. You don’t have to go full on Marie Kondo but even sorting out one area: a wardrobe, a kitchen drawer, or your workspace can bring a surprising sense of calm. Add some cheerful houseplants or a new scented candle to brighten up those shorter days!
Prioritise self care!
The hustle and bustle of December often leave us feeling drained. January is the time to refuel your mind and body. Start simple: drink more water, get to bed earlier or carve out 10 minutes for meditation. Treat yourself to a spa evening at home, bubble baths, face masks and all the trimmings. The goal is to recharge so you can face the year with your best self forward!
Plan something to look forward to!
Having something on the horizon can do wonders for your mood. Book tickets to a concert, plan a weekend getaway or schedule a catch up with friends. If funds are tight post Christmas plan something low cost like a movie night, a dinner at home where everyone brings a dish or a DIY craft session.
Learn something new!
Why not kick off the year by adding a new skill to your repertoire? Sign up for an online course, dive into a new hobby, or finally tackle that foreign language you’ve been meaning to learn. Even small steps—like trying a new recipe or picking up a book on a topic you’re curious about—can spark joy and creativity.
Get outside!
Yes, it’s cold. Yes, it’s tempting to stay under a blanket but stepping outdoors even for a short walk can boost your mood and energy. If you’re lucky enough to get a snow day channel your inner child with a snowball fight or some sledding. No snow? A brisk walk, with a podcast or your favourite tunes can work wonders!
Celebrate small wins!
Take a moment to reflect on 2024. What did you achieve? What made you smile? Celebrating even the smallest wins can remind you of your resilience and give you confidence for what’s to come. Keep a gratitude journal to capture the little things that bring joy throughout January.
Host a January gathering!
Who says socialising has to stop after New Year’s Eve? January is the perfect time for low key get togethers. Invite friends over for a games night or a cosy dinner. Keeping the social energy alive can help you combat any post holiday loneliness.
Embrace the quiet!
Finally, lean into the slower pace of January. After the whirlwind of December it’s okay to let yourself rest. Spend time reading, journaling or just enjoying the stillness. This calm can provide clarity and inspiration for the year ahead.
What tips do you have on how to have a great start to the year?
Hello Kim,
ReplyDeleteI like your list. Plenty of inspirations for a fresh start. I agree, goals and baby steps are sometimes better than resolutions.
Steph
Good ideas. I am setting goals and not resolutions for a while and it works so much better. I don't have any pressure. On top of that, I also stopped setting unrealistic goals. The idea with the goals is to do a bit more.
ReplyDeleteWeirdly I tend to view January as both a fresh new start and a dreary post-holiday slump time! But I do like to have a bucket list going and plan some fun things to look forward to. You have lots of great suggestions for making the most of the month/year.
ReplyDeleteLots of lovely ideas. Goals are so much better than resolutions. I think the pressure of resolutions sets you up for a fall.
ReplyDeleteI love celebrating the small wins, they instantly lift you up, don't they?! xx