10 Important Things To Do In January To Start Your Year Right

Here is your ultimate checklist of things to do in January to start your year on an organized and happy note.

There are plenty of boring months in a year, but January is not one of them. There’s plenty to do, and still not enough somehow.

It’s the time of the year when everyone you know is making plans, setting resolutions, and reinventing themselves by making life-changing decisions.

Some souls also decide to treat January like a normal month, which is understandable, because it can be disappointing when you fail to stick to your new year goals later on in the year.

But whatever your mindset regarding this month, you can’t deny the power of a fresh beginning.

Spending January the right way can set the tone for an amazing year, and I’m here to convince you to give this beautiful month a heartfelt shot.

Whether you’re a resolution-maker or just looking for some winter joy, I’ve got the ultimate lineup of 10 things to do in January.

But first, pin this post now so that you can come back to it later.

Feel free to tailor these tips to your interests, priorities, and circumstances.

Let’s make this January one for the books!

10 Things You Should Do In January

1. Set New Year’s Resolutions

First things first, you need to set your major new year’s resolutions at the beginning of the year.

January is the month of new beginnings and high motivation.

The fresh start effect is at its max during this time, and you can make the most of it by laying down your goals and setting the right intentions.

Reflect on the past year and set realistic and achievable goals that can be achieved by the end of the year.

Keep in mind that more isn’t always good.

Stick to a maximum of three big resolutions and break them down into monthly goals to achieve your goals by the end of the year.

2. Make Time For Winter Activities

January is the coldest time of the year, which people aren’t usually a fan of (not me though, I live and breathe for winters).

You can either succumb to the winter blues or make the most of this magical time by getting your fill of winter activities.

Embrace the winter season by participating in activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or simply enjoying the beauty of winter landscapes.

Click loads of pictures to add to your journal and social media stories.

Also, indulge in cozy winter self-care by journaling in your free time, reading before bed, and baking treats to munch on while watching winter-themed movies.

3. Get Organized

Even the laziest souls on the planet will be creeping out of their blankets to do some organizing, and you don’t want to be left behind.

The state of your physical space affects your mental health more than you might believe. Start by boxing up your holiday decor (only if you want to) and decluttering your space.

Rearrange your bookshelf, get your wardrobe in order, and organize the neglected parts of your house.

Listen to a podcast or some music while doing your organizing tasks, and reward yourself with a self-care ritual like a warm bath later scented candles and essential oils.

Might help: How To Organize Your Life In One Week

4. Create A Simple Health Routine

January is the month when everyone around you will be making vows to get healthy or launching into an intensive fitness program.

You should join in for sure because your body deserves to be worked upon.

But instead of going full out at the start of the year only to end up exhausted in February, create a soft health routine that isn’t too hard on your body and mind.

Instead of hitting the gym right away, start by doing 20 minute workouts at home every day.

Build micro habits that are easy to stick to, like doing your skincare routine, eating a fruit in the morning, and sipping a cup of green tea in the evenings.

Take walks during the weekend, and quit one trigger food from your diet, and start a fitness journal to keep tabs on your goals.

Once you’re comfortable, amp up your routine to include more challenging goals.

5. Plan Your Finances

Don’t hold off on financial planning. The sooner you sort out your money, the more stress-free you’ll be about your expenses going into the year.

Review your financial goals and create a budget for the year.

You could also plan your budget for all 12 months. Set aside some savings and planning for any big expenses.

If things feel tricky, you can always hire a professional or read some financial blogs for smart budgeting tips.

6. Read A Book

If you’re a binge-reader like me, you probably already have your reading goals set and are busy making space for new books on your shelf.

But if you’re not someone who usually reads, you need to make time to finish at least one book in January. Why? Coz it’s good for your mind!

Sitting down with a book and making it through to the end requires focus. It’s one of the most satisfying things in the world that also gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Pick up a book you’ve been wanting to read for a long time and read it before the end of January.

No pressure, but I hope you pick something good and worthy of being your first book of the year.

7. Learn Something New

Set aside time in January to acquire a new skill or hobby. This could be anything from learning a language to mastering a musical instrument.

You could attend an arts and crafts workshop, take a short e-course, or sign up for a hobby class.

Explore some new options and feel free to try activities you never thought you would.

This is the time to challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and set the right tone for the year.

Me? I’ll be going for a weekend pottery class, thank you for asking.

Don’t miss: How To Create A Cozy Winter Morning Routine – 9 Enchanting Tips

8. Plan Your Trips

I couldn’t travel much in 2023, but did manage to squeeze in a trip to the Neergarh waterfalls in December.

When I came back, I only had one question for myself – Why the heck do I not travel often enough?

Traveling is so good for your soul!

A new destination can give you a new outlook on life, help you grow, and reveal parts of you that you didn’t even know existed.

If possible, start January with a trip, even if it’s just for a day, and lay down your travel plans for your favorite months of the year.

Search destinations you’d like to visit, ask people you’d like to take, and add a solo trip for yourself along the way.

Even if the trip is in the distant future, having travel plans can be exciting and motivate you to do your best in your routine life.

9. Connect With Loved Ones

Every year when January rolls around, I usually get busy doing my own things, but this time, I’ll be making time for my people and pour into my relationships.

It’s important to nurture your support system at the beginning of the year and let your people know that they are included in your new year plans.

Make fun winter plans with your family, connect with your close friends over coffee, and call up old ones to wish them a happy new year.

Hit the spa with your girlfriends, gather outside for winter activities, and organize virtual meetings to catch up with your peeps and strengthen your bonds.

10. Embrace Mindfulness And Relaxation

New year chaos is the beautiful kind, but can be stressful nonetheless.

Have fun making plans and getting your life together in January, but also make time for mindfulness and relaxation.

Embrace the winter bliss by trying hygge rituals like getting cozy with comfy sweaters, warm blankets, and hot tea.

Pamper your body with a spa day at home, do things that make you genuinely happy, and spend time alone to connect with yourself.

You want to go forward into the year as a more relaxed and stress-free version of yourself. So, keep January relaxed and cozy.

It’s okay to prioritize yourself and slow down even if everyone around you is going at crazy speed. Self-care comes first, always.

Make Your January Exciting And Memorable

Whether you’re exploring new hobbies, setting ambitious goals, or simply savoring the quiet moments, January is a month for personal growth and fun experiences.

Embrace the fresh start, revel in the possibilities, and let the energy of January propel you into a year filled with purpose and fulfillment.

Cheers to a month of discovery, self-reflection, and the boundless potential that lies ahead!

You just discovered 10 things to do in January.