31 Things to Do in January to Set the Tone for 2026

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January always invites a natural pause. While every day offers the chance to begin again, there’s something grounding about the collective reset of a new year—the sense that we get to choose how we move forward. After plenty of trial and error, I’ve learned to let go of detoxes, cleanses, and rigid routines in favor of something far more sustaining: intention.

A flip of the calendar doesn’t erase the complexity we carry into a new year, but it does offer perspective. January feels hopeful, not because everything is suddenly new, but because it creates space to decide what deserves our energy. This season isn’t about doing more—it’s about moving with clarity, curiosity, and care.

A Journal Prompt for January

Write down two tiny rituals that would make your days feel softer this month. Maybe it’s lighting a candle before your coffee, stepping outside for fresh air each morning, or reading three pages of something beautiful before your to-do list takes over.

Let January be less about reinvention—and more about alignment.

A Gentle Nudge

Choose one idea from this list and commit to it for the month. Not all 31—just one. Joy compounds when it’s given room to breathe. Small, intentional choices have a way of reshaping our days more than grand plans ever do.

Editor’s Recommendation of the Month

Pomezia Satchel Crossbody in Black by Patricia Nash

Who doesn’t love finding a piece you never second-guess—this is that bag for me. I’ve been a longtime fan of Patricia Nash, but as I move through my 30s, I’ve become especially intentional about investing in pieces that feel timeless, well-made, and endlessly wearable.

The Pomezia Satchel hits that sweet spot perfectly. Crafted from vintage distressed leather, it feels polished without being precious—structured enough to elevate an outfit, relaxed enough to carry every day. I love the rounded top handles for a classic feel, but the detachable crossbody strap makes it practical for real life (errands, travel, long walks through the city).

What Patricia Nash does so brilliantly is balance statement-making design with true versatility. This is the bag that works with everything—and yes, you’ll get compliments every single time you leave the house. If you’re ready to invest in one accessory that will outlast trends and wear beautifully over time, this is the one. – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist

31 Things to Do in January to Inspire a Fresh Start

This January bucket list is designed as a gentle guide for the month ahead. Rather than focusing on productivity or perfection, it centers on small rituals and meaningful choices—ways to feel more connected to yourself, your space, and the people around you. Scroll on for ideas to help you begin the year feeling grounded, inspired, and aligned with what truly matters.

MIND

Reflection, clarity, and intentional direction

1. Design a vision for your future self. Instead of focusing on goals alone, imagine how you want to feel this year. Grounded? Curious? Supported? Our Free Future-Self Worksheet helps bridge the gap between where you are now and where you’re meant to be. If you’re ready to go deeper, Camille’s Design Your Dream Life course provides a thoughtful framework for turning vision into aligned action.

2. Create a reading list that excites you. Choose books that expand your perspective, spark curiosity, or feel like a warm conversation you don’t want to end.

3. Learn something just for the joy of it. Follow your curiosity—whether that’s a new subject, skill, or creative outlet—and let yourself be a beginner again.

4. Practice intentional dreaming. Manifestation in 2026 is less about wishing and more about alignment. Reflect on what you truly want, why it matters, and what small steps move you closer.

5. Start a list-a-day journal. Gratitude lists, tiny wins, things you’re craving—let this be a low-pressure way to stay present with your inner world.

6. Clear digital clutter to make mental space. Clean out old downloads, unused apps, and inbox noise. A lighter digital environment supports clearer thinking.

7. Cross off the project you’ve been avoiding. Dedicate one focused afternoon to finishing the thing that’s been lingering. Relief is a powerful motivator.

8. Subscribe to magazines you love. Create space for analog inspiration. Who does’t love slowing down with beautiful pages and no notifications?

BODY

Care, nourishment, and movement that feels good

9. Choose movement that meets you where you are. January doesn’t require a new routine—it asks for awareness. Walks, stretching, Pilates, dancing in your kitchen—follow what feels supportive.

10. Recommit to rest. Refine your sleep routine so nights feel restorative, not rushed. Small changes here ripple through everything.

11. Rediscover the pleasure of smoothies—yes, in winter. Warm spices, cozy flavors, nourishing add-ins. A gentle way to care for yourself on busy mornings.

12. Cook your way through soup season. Big pots, slow simmering, leftovers that feel like a gift to future you. Let our best soup recipes inspire you.

13. Explore zero-proof drinks with intention. Whether you’re sober-curious or simply experimenting, treat non-alcoholic drinks as something celebratory, not restrictive.

14. Make your favorite warm beverage a ritual. Chai, golden milk, matcha, hot chocolate—let it become a pause you look forward to each day.

15. Buy yourself flowers. No reason required. Beauty has a way of softening even the hardest days.

HOME

Spaces that support how you want to live

16. Refresh your morning routine. Instead of overhauling everything, ask: What would make my mornings feel more supportive?

17. Reassess your wardrobe with honesty and kindness. Release what no longer fits your life—or your body—with compassion. Make room for what does.

18. Get a gentle head start on spring cleaning. One drawer, one shelf, one corner at a time. Progress doesn’t need to be dramatic to be meaningful.

19. Create winter-worthy décor moments. Candles, greenery, soft lighting. Winter deserves beauty, too.

20. Bake something from scratch. Bread, focaccia, quick loaves—there’s grounding magic in working with your hands.

21. Tidy your physical workspace. Clear surfaces invite clearer thinking. Even five minutes counts.

CONNECTION

Relationships, joy, and shared moments

22. Send a handwritten note. A few thoughtful sentences can mean more than you realize—to you and the person receiving them.

23. Create a regular catch-up ritual. Weekly voice notes, monthly phone calls, and standing coffee dates. Because connection thrives on consistency.

24. Join (or start) a book club. Reading is richer when shared, and conversation adds layers you might’ve missed on your own.

25. Plan a cozy girls’ night. Think games, home-cooked food, or a themed movie night.

26. Host a board game night. Low-stakes competition, high comfort.

27. Take a long, aimless walk through your city. Wander without a destination. Curiosity often shows up when plans don’t.

28. Make kindness a weekly practice. Write down small acts of generosity you can return to throughout the month.

29. Learn a creative skill with your hands. Hand lettering, drawing, crafting—creativity doesn’t have to be productive to be meaningful.

30. Name what you love about winter. The quiet, the coziness, the slower pace. Appreciation changes the season entirely.

31. Get a head start on Valentine’s Day cards. Celebrate love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, familial, and self-directed.

This post was last updated on January 1, 2026, to include new insights.