New Year, No Pressure: 5 Refreshing Ways to Start Fresh Without Overhauling Your Life

New Year, No Pressure: 5 Refreshing Ways to Start Fresh

“Sometimes, I stare at the ceiling—chewing water…”

BY STEPHNIE @the Brimly Test Kitchen

December 30, 2024

Image Source/Editors @ Brimly

10 minute Read

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PERSONAL VIEW

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." —Lao Tzu

Ah, New Year’s resolutions—the annual ritual where we convince ourselves that this will be the year we reinvent our entire existence. We’re talking big dreams, ambitious plans, and a Pinterest board full of visions for a “better” us. But if you’re anything like me, January 15 rolls around, and suddenly your gym shoes are collecting dust, your inbox is a cluttered war zone, and that gratitude journal? It’s got exactly two entries—one about your dog and another about tacos.

This year, I’m trying something different. Instead of aiming for an all-out life overhaul, I’m focusing on small, no-pressure changes that actually make me feel good. These are the simple, manageable habits that can help us ease into 2025 feeling refreshed, accomplished, and ready to tackle bigger goals without the weight of unrealistic expectations crushing us before February. Let me share my top five ways to reset without the drama.

Start Your Day with a “No-Tech Moment”

We’ve all been there—rolling over in bed, eyes still bleary, grabbing our phones to check emails or scroll social media. Within minutes, the stress sets in: an overdue bill, a passive-aggressive work email, or the latest viral video reminding you that other people seem to have it all figured out. Not exactly the peaceful morning vibe you were hoping for.

That’s why I’ve started my mornings with what I like to call a “no-tech moment.” For the first 10 minutes of my day, I don’t touch my phone. Instead, I just sit with my thoughts. Sometimes, I stretch; sometimes, I stare at the ceiling—chewing water, wondering how others are so much more productive than me, and other times, I make my bed. It’s not about being productive—it’s about starting the day without feeling like you’re already behind.

What I’ve noticed since starting this small ritual is that I actually feel calmer throughout the day. I’m not immediately overwhelmed by the world’s problems or my own to-do list. I get a chance to ease into my morning, and honestly, it’s the best 10 minutes I’ve spent in a long time. If 10 minutes feels too ambitious, start with five.

Drink Water (Yes, Before the Coffee)

I know, I know—America runs on Dunkin’, and so do I most mornings. But here’s the thing: diving straight into coffee is like slamming an energy drink into an empty tank. Sure, you’ll get a boost, but your body needs a little hydration first.

Now, I’m not saying give up your beloved morning brew (I’m not a monster). Just drink a glass of water before it. And if you’re feeling fancy, toss in a lemon slice or some cucumber for that “spa water” vibe. It’s a small tweak, but it does wonders for your digestion and energy levels.

For those of us who struggle to drink water throughout the day, this small act can set the tone. Starting with one glass often leads to drinking more water naturally. I’ve even gotten into the habit of keeping a cute water bottle nearby (because, let’s face it, cute water bottles are basically the emotional support animals of hydration). It’s a little step, but it can make a big difference—and your body will thank you.

Commit to 15 Minutes of Movement

Here’s the thing about exercise: we all know we should do it, but the idea of hitting the gym during peak New Year’s chaos is about as appealing as an unseasoned chicken breast. Instead of overhauling your entire fitness routine, why not just start with 15 minutes of movement?

I’m not talking about grueling burpees or running a 5K. I’m talking about dancing to your favorite playlist while brushing your teeth, taking a brisk walk around the block, or even watching a YouTube yoga video. The key is to keep it light and fun—no pressure, no intimidation, just you and some endorphins doing their thing.

What’s great about starting with 15 minutes is that it often leads to more. Once you get moving, you might find yourself stretching a little longer or even breaking into a jog. But even if you don’t, that 15 minutes counts. Movement is movement, and it’s worth celebrating. Plus, it’s a lot easier to convince yourself to move for 15 minutes than it is to commit to an hour-long gym session. Start small, and see where it takes you.

Declutter Your Inbox (and Maybe Your Brain)

Let’s talk about emails. From subscriptions you didn’t sign up for to newsletters you never read, a cluttered inbox can feel like a digital mountain of stress.

Recently, I discovered an app (Trimbox) that lets you unsubscribe from unwanted emails in one click. It’s like Marie Kondo for your inbox. And let me tell you, the satisfaction of watching those emails disappear? It’s almost as good as canceling plans you didn’t want to go to in the first place. A decluttered inbox equals a decluttered mind, and who doesn’t want that kind of clarity heading into the New Year?

And it’s not just emails. Decluttering your phone—from old photos to apps you never use—can have the same effect. It’s amazing how much lighter you feel when your digital life is organized. I’ve even started setting aside 10 minutes a week to clean up my digital clutter, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite rituals.

Start a “One Good Thing” Journal

Here’s the truth about gratitude journals: they sound amazing in theory, but who has the time to write a heartfelt essay about their day when Netflix is calling? That’s why I’ve simplified the concept into what I call the “One Good Thing” journal.

It’s exactly what it sounds like. Every day, you jot down one thing—just one—that made you smile. Maybe your dog gave you the world’s best tail wag, or you found a dollar in your coat pocket. Maybe traffic was unusually light, or you made a sandwich so good it deserved a standing ovation. Whatever it is, writing it down shifts your mindset, even on the toughest days.

Over time, this small habit adds up. You start to notice more good things in your day-to-day life, and you build a collection of happy moments to look back on when you need a pick-me-up. It’s simple, it’s quick, and it’s surprisingly effective. Plus, it’s way more fun than writing a five-paragraph essay about why you’re grateful for sunlight.

Our round-up is:

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to feel like a second job. Small changes, like the ones I’ve shared, can be just as transformative as the big, bold promises we make to ourselves every January. The best part? These habits are easy to start now, so by the time the ball drops, you’ll already be ahead of the game.

So here’s to 2025—no pressure, no stress, just small steps toward a happier, healthier you. Try one, try them all, or make up your own. Whatever you do, just remember: progress is progress, no matter how small.