Forget Resolutions: Let’s Try Something Different
Practical, pressure-free ideas to bring clarity and intention - plus a new community workshop
I am a big goal setter, but this year I’ve decided to approach goal setting a little differently. Partly because I am still in the midst of a book launch, partly because I am working on my tendency to equate my own self-worth with my accomplishments, and partly because the girls came home with lice, the dog has inexplicably started urinating all over our house (vet visit today), and I really just want to curl up in a ball and rewatch every season of Succession.
Instead, I’ve rounded up 10 creative and approachable alternatives to traditional resolutions that can help you reflect, reset, and make progress in a way that feels good. No guilt, no perfection required—just simple, practical ideas to bring clarity and intention to your life - less pressure, more possibility.
1. Set an Intention for the Year
Choose a single word, phrase, or mantra that reflects how you want to feel or show up in the coming year (e.g., “ease,” “adventure,” “growth”).
2. Create a 'To Be' List
Instead of listing things to do, focus on who you want to be. Write down qualities or values you want to embody, like “patient,” “creative,” or “brave.”
3. Focus on Daily Micro Habits
Pick one or two small, actionable habits to add to your daily routine (e.g., drinking a glass of water in the morning, writing three things you’re grateful for, stretching before bed, etc.).
4. Write a Gratitude Letter
Write a letter to yourself, or someone else, about what you’re grateful for in your life right now. Soak it in.
5. Conduct a Values Inventory
Identify your top three to five core values, and reflect on how well your daily life aligns with them. Choose the value that you want to work on living in greater alignment with.
6. Make a 'Stop Doing' List
Think about habits, obligations, or mindsets that no longer serve you, and commit to letting them go in the new year.
7. Try a Theme Month
Dedicate one month to a specific area of improvement or growth, like “digital declutter month,” “move my body month,” or “try something new month.”
8. Adopt a 'Wins Journal'
Instead of focusing on what you need to change, start a journal where you jot down daily or weekly wins—big or small.
9. Design Your Ideal Day
Write out what a fulfilling, balanced day would look like for you, and pick one element you can implement right away.
10. Experiment with a Challenge
Try something fun and finite like a “no new things” challenge, a 30-day movement streak, or a month of saying no to things that drain you.
New Workshop: Let’s Start the Year Together ✨
Even though I could use a nap, I really love the promise of a new year and a fresh start, so instead I’ve decided to open up a brand new online workshop. Let’s reflect, reset, and plan for the new year - together. Click here for all the details and to save your spot. I’m really excited about this one!
Just Published: I wrote a new article for Pop Sugar on quick holiday decluttering wins. Read It Here.
New Podcasts - Lots of fun new podcasts just released:
Systems, habits, and boundary setting on Imprint with Natalie Walton - Listen Here
Redefining minimalism on It Has to Be Me with Tess Masters - Listen Here
Practical advice on running a minimalist business on Behind the Scenes w Noelle Hagan - Listen Here
Fun Gift Ideas: A cute bandana, the sweetest candy gift box, an olive oil gift box, fancy hand soap in glass dispenser, really sweet socks, a box of mochi ice cream!
Watching: Every single season of a Succession - what else should I check out?
Get Organized Master Class: Learn how to edit, organize, and elevate your home like a pro. To the course
Work With Me 1:1: No-fluff strategy and support to help you tackle your large and small goals. Get support here
Curated Product Recs: My fewer better faves for your home, life, and wardrobe. To the recs
Get the Books: Actionable strategies to clear clutter, get organized, & elevate your home and life. To the books
Order LifeStyled now from your favorite bookshop! bookshop | target | amazon | barnes and noble | signed copies - so grateful for your support!
I love this!! I had already chosen the word EASE for 2025 so your list absolutely jumped out at me lol — looking forward to implementing some of these other suggestions too. Happy holidays!!
Great list!