The start of a new year is an excellent time to reflect on your mental wellbeing and plan for positive changes. Consider what habits or experiences from the past year energised you and what drained your energy. For example, did regular exercise, spending time outdoors, or connecting with loved ones help you feel more balanced? On the other hand, did overcommitting, skipping rest, or excessive screen time leave you feeling depleted? Reflecting on these patterns can guide you in making thoughtful adjustments.

Set realistic goals that are clear and achievable. Instead of broadly aiming to “sleep better,” try a specific goal like, “I’ll go to bed by 10:30pm on weeknights.” Goals aligned with your personal values—such as improving your health, deepening relationships, or creating more downtime—are often more fulfilling and motivating.

Planning self-care activities and scheduling them into your routine is key to maintaining your wellbeing. Small, consistent actions like setting aside 15 minutes daily to read, meditate, or enjoy a hobby can have a big impact over time. Regular physical activity—whether it’s walking, dancing, or yoga—can also boost your mood and energy levels. The key is to choose activities that bring you joy and fit into your lifestyle.

It’s also important to anticipate challenges that might interfere with self-care and create backup plans. If bad weather makes outdoor exercise difficult, prepare an indoor alternative like a workout video. If stress gets in the way, try quick relaxation techniques like deep breathing or grounding exercises to help you refocus. Thinking ahead makes it easier to stay consistent with your goals, even when obstacles arise.

Learning to say no to commitments that drain your energy is another valuable habit. Protecting your time allows you to focus on what truly matters. For example, instead of automatically agreeing to every request, try saying, “I’d love to help, but I’m not able to right now.” Similarly, reducing time spent on social media can free up space for more meaningful activities. You might set limits, such as no social media an hour before bed or taking one “screen-free” day each week.

Regularly reviewing your goals and adjusting them as needed helps you stay on track. If exercising every day feels overwhelming, scale back to three times a week and incorporate gentler activities on other days. Flexibility ensures that your goals remain achievable and sustainable.

Taking time to care for yourself is not only essential for your wellbeing but also helps you show up fully for others. By reflecting on what works, setting clear goals, and planning for obstacles, you can create a year filled with balance, energy, and joy.