Not A Bad Life's Self-Care Guide for the New Year

The new year is here, and with it comes the promise of a fresh start. But let’s face it: jumping into a year full of resolutions can feel overwhelming. Instead of aiming for perfection, why not focus on adding self-care to your routine? Self-care isn’t about luxury; it’s about small, intentional acts that make life more manageable and enjoyable.

Here’s your guide to weaving self-care into your daily life in 2025.

1. Start Small and Stay Consistent

Big changes can be exciting but hard to sustain. Instead of overhailing your routine, add manageable habits like:

• Drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up.
• Taking 5 deep breaths before starting work.
• Writing down one thing you’re grateful for each evening.

Pro Tip: Tiny habits, done daily, can lead to significant improvements over time

2. Make Self-Care Non-Negotiable

Schedule self-care like you would an important meeting. Whether it’s a weekly bath, a solo coffee date, or 10 minutes of journaling, commit to moments that are just for you.

Ideas to try:

• Sunday night is “reset night”: organize your space, prep meals, and light a candle to relax.
• Add a 15-minute morning or evening walk to your day.

Remember: Saying yes to self-care often means saying no to things that drain you

3. Create a Self-Care Toolkit

Having go-to items ready can make self-care feel easy and accessible. Build your toolkit with things that bring you comfort, such as:

• A favorite book or playlist.
• A cozy blanket or a pair of our self-care socks.
• Your favorite tea or podcast.

Consider adding self-care gifts to your toolkit, like a comfy tee or aromatherapy candles, to keep things fresh and motivating.

Keep it somewhere visible as a reminder to prioritize yourself.

4. Reflect and Adjust

Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your needs will shift. Regularly check in with yourself to see what’s working and what needs tweaking. Ask yourself:

• What’s draining my energy?
• What’s bringing me joy?
• How can I create more balance?

Self-awareness is key to crafting a routine that feels good for you.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

Progress is worth celebrating! Did you stick to a certain goal for a week? Treat yourself to something meaningful. Finished your first book of the year? Share it with friends or on social media to spread the joy.

A Simple Self-Care Routine for January

Here’s an easy template to kickstart your new year with self-care:

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  Set a positive intention for the day (e.g., “Today, I will focus on being kind to myself”). We have some on our daily affirmation pins.
• Meditate, stretch, or move your body for 5-10 minutes.

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  Take a break away from screens. Try breathing exercises or step outside for some fresh air.
• Hydrate! (Water is your friend.)

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  Write down or think of one thing you’re proud of from the day.
• Create a calming bedtime ritual: dim the lights, no screen time at 8, or meditate.