Here we are! The end of 2025 is in sight with less than two days left. I think we can all agree that this year was, to put it mildly, interesting. Some of us may have lost a job, a loved one, ended a relationship, moved away from family, or struggled with other personal situations. While there may have been some not-so-favorable moments, there may have been good ones, too. A promotion, welcoming of new babies, a dream purchase, or even reaching a goal you set for yourself last year. I look forward to putting the year to rest and forging forward. Here are five ways to help start the year right.
START FRESH WITH A CLEAN HOUSE
Growing up, it was instilled in us that we have to start the year with a clean house. As an adult, this has stuck. I want to start the year fresh, making space to welcome the new year.
- Clean out your closet. Get rid of items that no longer fit or serve your style. Donate or list items to sell.
- Clean out the fridge.
- Vacuum and mop.
- Clean and organize bathrooms.
- Make sure all laundry is done and put away.
- Change the sheets.
CREATE A VISION BOARD
Start by listing specific buckets in your life (financial, relationship, health, work, etc). Under each bucket list, maybe 3-5 intentions, and under those intentions, the actions needed. Once you are clear about what you want, create a vision board representing the outcomes of the actions. I like to use Pinterest to gather images that align with what I want.
You can create this vision board physically or digitally. For me, I create mine as a screensaver on my computer so I can see it every day. Maybe you would want it next to your bed so you can visualize it before sleep or in your bathroom to see while you get ready.
Why create a vision board? Having clarity about what you want will make it that much easier to believe it can be achieved. Visualizing the outcome and understanding the actions needed will motivate and drive you through emotional attachment.
UNSUBSCRIBE FROM EMAIL LISTS
I know I am not the only one with an email full of promotions. Unsubscribe from lists of brands or services that you do not use. There is nothing better than a clear inbox, plus I do not want to be tempted to shop a sale that I do not need to.
EVALUATE WHO YOU ARE FOLLOWING ON SOCIALS
Like the email list, go through who you follow. It is okay if a brand, creator, or other accounts no longer align with what you want to see. It will only make space to welcome other accounts that align with what you want on your feed. Socials should be a place where you can gather ideas, connect, and laugh. If you do not feel motivated or interested, then it’s time to assess who you follow.
CREATE A FINANCIAL TRACKER
I have been creating a new financial tracker for myself for the last 6 years. It is amazing to see the progress over the years and very motivating. Finances are personal, and if you want to get better or just have a good snapshot of where you are, then I suggest you make one to help you stay on track. There are so many online you can download, or you can create one in Excel for free. Trust me, by the end of the year, you will be proud to see your growth, and filling it out does make you motivated to see your debt decrease and your savings increase. Track where your money is going and quarterly assess how you’re spending. Incremental progress is… progress!