To make it not suck.

1. Set Intentions

Start the year by setting clear and achievable intentions for yourself. This is one of the ways that’s helped me achieve some goals rather than give up at the first failure. I “intend” to drink a gallon of water every day for the month of January. Yesterday I got to 90 oz. I still feel real good about that and I’m not throwing in the towel today. It’s a hell of a lot more water than I drank last year.

Reflect on what you want to accomplish in various aspects of your life, such as health, career, relationships, and personal development and set an intention for improvement every day.

2. Prioritize Self-Care

Above all else: self-care. And HONEST self-care. Eating Doritos chased by a bottle of wine in a bubble bath screams self-sabotage not self-care. January is an excellent time to establish or revisit self-care routines that contribute to your physical, mental, and emotional health. This could look like regular exercise, proper sleep, healthy eating, mindfulness practices, and spending time doing activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of yourself sets a positive tone for the rest of the year.

3. Organize and Declutter

I Marie Kondoed my house in December (I wonder if she knows her name is now used as a verb?) and it feels so good to have less clutter piling up. Use the cold, dark evenings of January as an opportunity to declutter and organize your living and working spaces. A tidy environment will have a positive impact on your mental well-being and productivity. Donate or discard items you no longer need, organize your belongings by finding a place for everything, and create systems that help you maintain order throughout the year. This process can provide a fresh start and a sense of control.

4. Invest in Yourself or Your Business

Stimulate your mind by learning a new skill or joining a group of like-minded people. Whether it’s a language, a musical instrument, a form of art, or a practical skill related to your profession, acquiring new knowledge can be fulfilling and empowering. Consider enrolling in a course, attending workshops, or finding online resources to expand your skill set. Learning something new can bring a sense of accomplishment and excitement to your life.

Remember that the key is to set realistic goals and incorporate activities that bring you joy and fulfillment; why else are we here? January is a great time to establish positive habits that can set the tone for the rest of the year.