6 New Years Reflections
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
While enjoying a quiet and relaxing evening on New Year’s Eve, I came across this beautiful quote that really resonated with me by Brad Paisley, which read, “Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.” It reminded me how meaningful this moment of transition can be, a natural pause between what has been and what’s still to come. There’s something powerful about allowing ourselves to reflect before rushing ahead. Taking even a few moments to look back can help us move forward with more intention, clarity, and self-compassion.
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Things can move pretty quickly sometimes, and it’s easy to get caught up in the daily motions of everyday life. The new year is a time for new beginnings, new opportunities, and intentionally choosing new ways of being in the world. It’s a wonderful time to take inventory of your life to notice what’s working well, and what you’re ready to release.
Here are some thoughts and tips for doing just that, while reflecting on different areas of your life
6 New Years Reflections
1. Health
A lot of people set out to make New Year’s resolutions focused on changing their appearance, and while that’s completely fine, I also encourage you to take time to reflect on how you actually feel. How do you feel in your body? Do you feel strong? Do you have energy? This can be a great time to make small, simple changes that help you feel your best. For example, you might choose to start moving your body a little more or prioritize getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. Maybe you’d like to drink more water, or cook at home more often instead of eating out. There are so many ways to support your health and wellness that don’t revolve around appearance.
2. Habits
Habits are the little things we do each day, often without even thinking about them. They can positively impact your life, or they can hold you back. Waking up and brushing your teeth first thing in the morning is a habit, just as smoking is. The new year is a great time to reflect on your habits to gently assess what’s working well and what isn’t. Are your mornings flowing easily, or would creating a new morning routine help? Do you find yourself scrolling more than you’d like, and could this be a good time to replace some of that time with meditation or journaling? Approach this process judgement-free, and be kind to yourself along the way. Habits take time to build and maintain, so focus on small, manageable changes rather than trying to change everything at once.
3. Wardrobe
Without realizing it, we can accumulate clothes over time that end up forgotten in the back of our closets. The new year can be a great opportunity to take a look at what you own and see if there’s anything you haven’t worn in a while. Donate or sell pieces that no longer serve you. With Boxing Day sales often lasting a couple of weeks, this can also be a helpful time to intentionally add a few new pieces if you notice gaps in your wardrobe.
4. Relationships
They say that people may enter your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. This doesn’t mean someone isn’t good or kind, sometimes life simply takes people in different directions, and that’s okay. The new year can be a meaningful time to reflect on your relationships. Are there connections you wish felt stronger? This could be a great time to prioritize spending more time together. On the other hand, are there people who regularly leave you feeling drained or discouraged? This may be a gentle sign that it’s time to create a bit more space. It’s very natural for relationships to change over time. Try not to force what no longer feels aligned.
5. Self-Care
Self-care goes beyond pampering yourself and “treat-yo’self” moments. It’s about the everyday practices that support your well-being. While this can absolutely include pampering, it also shows up in smaller, more practical ways. The new year is a great time to reflect on your self-care routines. Would switching your shower from morning to evening help your mornings feel less rushed? Are you up to date on your medical appointments? This might be the perfect time to book that routine check-up you’ve been putting off… and maybe even squeeze in a little post-holiday pedicure, if that feels good to you.
6. Home Maintenance
The new year can be a great time to focus on home improvements or reducing clutter. While these tasks can feel daunting at times, they often bring a strong sense of accomplishment and create more peace in your space.