Do you have hopes, dreams and goals for the future? If so, it can often take focus, motivation and a clear idea of what you’d like to achieve. In this article we look at 12 ways to make this year your best year ever!
WHY PLAN FOR THE YEAR AHEAD?
I’m all for making change and starting afresh at any time of the day, week, month or year, but there’s something about welcoming in a new year that feels like we have potential to welcome in a new you too.
That certainly doesn’t mean that we discount the year just gone and that there’s a magic wand for assuring us of a stress-free and easy next 12 months. And that’s also not to say that there’s anything ‘wrong’ with the present you either!
But, importantly, there’s a mindset shift that happens when the first days of January roll round. What will the coming year bring and what can we become?
Well, the honest truth and likelihood is that one year is very much like another. We get older, still have to fill the fridge and pay the bills, and we’ll still get caught in traffic on our daily commute but…
In between the humdrum of every day life and the meal-planning and dentist appointments, is a potential to make your year the best year ever.
Whilst we can’t control every aspect of life, there are many things we CAN do to live up to our full potential, find joy and peace of mind, and contentment in the almost limitless possibilities that our mind can wander amongst.
But, all of this comes down to some planning, organisation and intentional choices about what we let in and what we keep out.
If you’re feeling lost, frustrated or just in need of a change or some direction, I’d like to try to help…
In this article I’d like to share some ideas on how you can make this year your best year ever!
HOW TO MAKE THIS YEAR YOUR BEST YEAR EVER
Every new year feels like a fresh start, doesn’t it? It’s a chance to wipe the slate clean, set goals, and focus on the life you really want to live. But let’s be honest: how many times have you made resolutions in January only to forget them by February? If so, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
I was going to learn to play the piano last year. I did for a few days and then life got in the way.
I was also going to walk 10,000 steps. Guess what? That’s gone back on my list for this year so I can try again.
This year can be different, though. It doesn’t have to be about chasing unrealistic goals or putting pressure on yourself to achieve everything all at once. Instead, it’s about making intentional changes, setting meaningful goals, and creating habits that truly improve your life.
Here’s how to make this year your best year ever – step by step and with plenty of room to breathe and juggle the ups and downs of life.
1. Start by Reflecting on Last Year
Before you rush ahead with plans and goals, take a moment to look back and review the year just gone. What went well last year? What didn’t? What made you feel happy and fulfilled, and what drained your energy?
Jot down a few thoughts or even make a list. Reflection is powerful because it helps you learn from your experiences. Maybe you realised you felt your best when you spent more time outdoors or when you made time for family. Use these insights to guide what you want to prioritise this year.
2. Get Clear on What You Really Want
It’s easy to set goals because they sound good – lose weight, save money, get promoted. But what do you truly want? What’s going to make your life better, not just busier?
Take some time to think about what’s most important to you. Maybe it’s spending more quality time with loved ones, focusing on your health, or finally starting that creative project you’ve been dreaming about.
When your goals align with your values, you’re more likely to stick with them.
3. Break It Down into Small, Manageable Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming, which is often why we give up on them. Instead of saying, “I’m going to get fit this year,” break it down into smaller steps like:
- Start with a 10-minute walk every day.
- Try one new healthy recipe each week.
- Join a fitness class you enjoy.
Small, consistent actions add up over time, and they’re much easier to stick with than drastic changes.
4. Create a Morning Routine That Sets You Up for Success
How you start your day can have a big impact on how the rest of it unfolds. A good morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated or take hours – it’s about starting your day with intention.
Here are a few ideas:
- Spend 5 minutes journaling or writing down your goals for the day.
- Move your body, even if it’s just a quick stretch or a walk.
- Avoid checking your phone first thing to give yourself some calm before the chaos.
A morning routine can help you feel grounded and focused, no matter what the day throws at you.
5. Prioritise Self-Care
If you’re always putting everyone else first, it’s time to change that. Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup, as they say.
Self-care looks different for everyone. It could mean taking a relaxing bath, reading a book, going for a walk, or simply saying no to things that drain you. Make time for yourself every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes.
6. Declutter Your Space and Your Mind
A cluttered home often leads to a cluttered mind. Spend some time this year decluttering your space – it doesn’t have to be all at once. Tackle one drawer, shelf, or room at a time.
As you declutter your physical space, think about decluttering your schedule too. Are there commitments or habits that no longer serve you? Let them go. Simplifying your life creates more room for the things that truly matter.
7. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Nobody’s perfect, and aiming for perfection only sets you up for disappointment. Instead, focus on progress. Celebrate your small wins and remind yourself that it’s okay to stumble along the way.
Maybe you missed a workout or overspent one month – so what? You’re human! The important thing is to pick yourself back up and keep moving forward.
8. Surround Yourself with Positivity
The people and environments you surround yourself with have a huge impact on your mindset. Spend time with people who lift you up and inspire you. If you’re constantly around negativity, it’s harder to stay motivated and focused.
You can also create a positive environment at home by filling your space with things that make you happy – whether that’s fresh flowers, cosy blankets, or inspiring books. My personal choices is indoor plants!
9. Learn to Say No
One of the biggest reasons people feel stressed and overwhelmed is because they take on too much. Learning to say no is a powerful skill that can help you protect your time and energy.
If something doesn’t align with your goals or values, it’s okay to politely decline. Remember, every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else – make sure it’s worth it.
10. Set Boundaries with Technology
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel constantly “on.” But spending too much time on your phone or computer can leave you feeling drained and disconnected.
Set some boundaries with technology this year. Maybe that means having tech-free evenings, limiting your social media time, or keeping your phone out of the bedroom. Use the extra time to connect with loved ones or focus on your hobbies.
A digital detox is a great way to focus on yourself and your life.
11. Make Time for What Brings You Joy
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. Make time for the things that light you up – whether that’s painting, gardening, cooking, or simply spending time with your favourite people.
Joy isn’t just a bonus; it’s a necessity. When you’re happy, everything else feels a little easier.
12. Plan for Rest and Recovery
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, but rest is just as important as action. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and taking breaks when you need them.
Schedule downtime into your week, whether that’s a lazy Sunday morning, an early night, or a quiet evening with a good book. Rest helps you recharge so you can show up as your best self.
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Reflect and Adjust Along the Way
Your goals and priorities might change throughout the year, and that’s okay. Take time every month to reflect on how things are going. What’s working? What’s not?
Adjust as needed and don’t be afraid to change direction if something no longer feels right.
Making this year your best year ever isn’t about doing it all or being perfect. It’s about taking small, intentional steps every day to create a life that feels fulfilling and meaningful to you.
Reflect on what matters most, let go of what doesn’t, and remember to celebrate the little things along the way. Let’s make it the best one yet!
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Do you have any ideas to add to this list? What else could you do to make this your best year ever?
What’s your approach to dealing with the challenges that inevitably come up from time to time? I’d love to hear your thoughts so please leave a comment at the end of the article.
If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to explore more, here are some articles you might find helpful:
- How to Set Goals That Really Count (and You’re Likely to Keep)
- What Does It Mean To Simplify Your Life?
- 10 Things To Do in January to Simplify Your Life
- 10 Mindful Habits to Reduce Daily Stress
- How Atomic Habits Help Us Make Lasting Changes in Life
GET YOUR FREE CHECKLIST
Mental clutter is a problem for many of us. Too many things to do, remember and achieve often serves to distract and blur our focus. Why not start the year by clearing your mind so you can think clearly and plan for the best year ever?!
Grab your free Mental Declutter Checklist by popping your details in the below…
Antonia Colins is the creator of Balance Through Simplicity, helping busy people declutter, simplify and live more intentionally. She has over 20 years of personal and professional experience in juggling work and family life and supporting individuals to remain independent and enjoy their home more. In her spare time, you can find Antonia walking, gardening or planning her next travel adventure! She lives in the UK with her husband and teenage kids. Read more about Antonia.