Things to Do in January: Simple Feel Good Ways to Start Fresh and Realign Your Life
January has a way of whispering possibility. The calendar flips, the pace slows just a little, and suddenly it feels like there is room to breathe again.
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Let’s use this momentum that January brings with a list of things to do in January for a fresh start or a life refresh.
This is not about reinventing yourself or setting goals so ambitious they fizzle out by February.
We dont need to set ourselves on the same old failed resolutions train that gets derailed when real life happens.
A true January reset is softer than that. It is about clearing space, checking in with yourself, and choosing small shifts that make life feel lighter and more intentional.
Think of this as a fresh start rooted in self-care, clarity, and momentum you can actually sustain.
And this list of things to do in January aims to do just that. So that said, let’s get to this January life reset list.
Reflect and Reset
Before you rush forward, pause. Take a moment to look back at the past year with curiosity rather than judgment.
What felt supportive? What felt heavy? Noticing patterns helps you move forward with intention instead of repeating what no longer works.
Using reflective journaling or journal prompts for self-reflection can be very helpful. Try these New Year’s reflection journal prompts.
Choose a word or theme for the year.
I know that sounds so cliché, but hear me out…
Choosing a word or theme for the year can help guide decisions without turning into pressure.
Choose one word or theme for the year that feels grounding and realistic. This could be something like calm, consistency, nourishment, or courage.
Refer to this word or theme when you need to make decisions, or feel stuck, to help you move forward or find courage, or pursue a goal.
Revist Your Values
One of the most important items to add to your list of things to do in January is a values reevaluation.
Revisit your values and ask if your current routines match what truly matters to you.
To revisit your values, write down what matters most to you right now.
This could be health, family, creativity, rest, financial stability, or connection. Then look at your daily routines and ask if they reflect those values.
If you value health but never slow down enough to eat real meals, that is information, not failure.
If you value connection but your schedule leaves no room for people, something may need to shift.
Even one small routine change that aligns better with your values can feel deeply grounding.
Set Smart Goals
Enter the new year lighter and with truly manageable goals.
Release guilt around unfinished goals from last year.
Goals expire when they no longer serve you, if they are unrealistic.
So evaluate these goals. Write new goals. The most effective goals are those that follow the SMART model. They are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Learn more about how to set smart goals here.
Write a letter to your future self.
I know, this may feel silly, but forge forward and do it. This is you manifesting the you you want to become in the new year and moving forward.
Writing a short letter to yourself about how you want to feel this year can help clarify what you actually want more of, whether that is peace, confidence, energy, or joy.
And writing a letter to yourself can actually a really fun way to visualize your much improved self fro years to come.
Clear the Physical Clutter
A list of things to do in January is not complete without mentioning decluttering. And no better time to commit to getting rid of excess in our homes.
There is something deeply satisfying about clearing physical space in January. It signals to your nervous system that things are shifting in a good way.
Start small. One drawer, one shelf, one surface is more than enough.
Let go of clothes that no longer fit your body or your life.
Make room for pieces that feel comfortable and supportive.
Clean out your pantry and fridge so nourishing choices are easier to see and reach.
Refresh your bedroom with clean sheets and cozy textures to support better rest.
If you can, create one calm corner in your home just for you. A chair, a plant, a candle, and a book can work wonders.
A reading nook is a good idea, or any other cozy corner where you feel good, relaxing to recharge.
Refresh Your Routines
A routine refresh is a must on the things to do in January list.
January offers a rare opportunity to look at your routines with fresh eyes. Instead of adding more, focus on refining what is already there.
Ask yourself where your mornings feel rushed or chaotic. Even waking up ten minutes earlier to move slowly or sit quietly can change the tone of the entire day.
Start with your mornings. A morning routine sets the tone of your day and can make or break your day, your productivity, and your mental health for the day. Check out these morning routine ideas;
Morning routine for high performers
Even a small change like a slower wake-up or a few quiet minutes can shift your entire day.
In the evenings, notice how you usually wind down. If your nights are filled with scrolling or overstimulation, consider a simple ritual that signals rest.
This could be dimming the lights, stretching, journaling, or enjoying a warm drink.
These small cues help your body transition into sleep more easily.
Create a simple wind-down ritual that signals it is time to rest. A relaxing self-care night routine is essential for a good night’s sleep.
Reevaluate screen time and set boundaries that support your energy instead of stealing it.
Focus on Consistent, Simple, Healthy Meals
A meal plan is such an important consideration on a reset list of things to do in January.
You dont need to overhaul your diet. What’s important is aiming for simplicity and consistency, and health.
Start by aiming for regular meals that keep your energy steady throughout the day.
Simple breakfasts, repeatable lunches, and familiar dinners remove decision fatigue and make nourishing yourself feel easier.
Try meal plans that are easy to follow with simple everyday ingredients.
Related: Simple low-carb 7-day meal plan for diabetics.
7 Day high iron meal plan for iron deficiency.
Think in terms of balance rather than rules. Including protein, fiber, and healthy fats most of the time can support blood sugar, mood, and focus without being restrictive.
Let go of the idea that every meal has to be ideal. A few dependable, go-to meals you genuinely enjoy will support your body far better than an all-or-nothing approach.
Add More Natural Light and Fresh Air to Your Day
Winter can make it tempting to stay indoors all day, but natural light plays a powerful role in mood, energy, and sleep quality.
Even brief exposure to daylight in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm and signals to your body that it is time to be alert and focused.
Open the curtains as soon as you wake up, sit near a window when possible, or step outside for a short walk, even if it is cold.
Fresh air can feel surprisingly invigorating and grounding.
These small moments of light and outdoor exposure can improve mental clarity, lift mood, and make it easier to wind down at night, all of which support a smoother, more balanced January reset.
Care for Your Body Without Extremes
There is nothing as important as your health. We tend to take this for granted, especially when we are healthy, thinking we will always have that. But let’s reconsider what we can do to improve our health this January.
January wellness does not need to mean restriction or extremes. A reset rooted in nourishment feels far more sustainable.
Start with hydration and warming foods that feel comforting and supportive during colder months. Ensure you stay hydrated. This can be hard for some people when it’s cold.
So drink warm teas, especially caffeine-free. But still try to drink water as well. Try using a drinking container with measurements so you can hold yourself accountable.
Choose a movement that feels enjoyable rather than obligatory. Walking, gentle stretching, yoga, or even dancing in your living room all count.
The goal is consistency, not intensity.
Use January as a reminder to schedule any health or wellness appointments you have been postponing.
Supporting your nervous system is just as important as supporting your physical body.
Incorporate moments of stillness, slow breathing, or mindfulness throughout your day.
And if there is one habit worth prioritizing above all else, it is sleep. Better sleep improves mood, energy, hormones, and resilience.
Reset Your Mindset
A fresh start truly begins in the mind. You’ve got to have the mind right in the right headspace to change anything.
Commit to the change you want. Start journaling to reset your mind. Starting a gratitude practice does not need to be elaborate.
Writing down one thing you are thankful for each day can slowly shift your perspective toward what is working instead of what is lacking.
Journaling can help you clarify what you want more of this year, but also what you are ready to release.
This might include habits, relationships, or expectations that no longer fit.
Try journal prompts such as these journal self-love journal prompts or these journal prompts for when you feel stuck in life. These powerful shadow work journal prompts can help you know yourself better.
Be mindful of how much negativity you consume through news and social media, especially in the morning and before bed.
Notice how you speak to yourself.
If your inner dialogue is harsh or demanding, practice replacing it with language that is supportive and realistic.
Remind yourself often that slow progress is still progress and that consistency matters more than perfection.
Financial and Life Admin Refresh
Add financial health to your list of things to do in January because your money health is key to life and happiness.
Having money offers choices. So yes, money can buy happiness.
Start by reviewing your budget with curiosity instead of judgment.
Set one realistic financial intention that feels manageable and empowering.
Educate yourself on debt payment and work on a viable plan.
Cancel subscriptions or commitments that you no longer use or enjoy.
Organize important documents, passwords, and digital clutter so everything is easier to find when you need it.
Create a plan for the next few months that allows for flexibility instead of pressure.
Setting one small goal that simplifies daily life can have a ripple effect.
This might be meal planning once a week, creating a consistent laundry day, or organizing your calendar in a way that feels less overwhelming.
Reconnect and Re-energize
January is a beautiful time to reconnect with yourself and others.
Reach out to someone you have been thinking about, even if it is just a short message. Meaningful connection does not need to be complicated.
Spend intentional time alone without distractions so you can hear your own thoughts again.
Revisit hobbies you love simply because they bring joy, not because they are productive. Read books that comfort or inspire you.
Practice saying yes to what feels nourishing and no to what drains your energy.
Protecting your time and energy is an essential part of any reset. And this January reset is no different.
