Christmas is over, and you’re probably eyeing the new year like, “Ok, 2025, don’t do that thing 2024 did.” We all want a fresh start, but hitting the reset button isn’t just about cracking open a new planner and making overly ambitious resolutions (that we completely abandon by February). A proper self-reset can help you enter the new year feeling refreshed, focused, and actually on top of things. Here are 8 steps you can take to get your groove back and start afresh in 2025.

1. Take time to reflect on the past year

We don’t want to dwell on the past, but if you genuinely want growth, you need to reflect on what you experienced and learn from them.

So take a moment to look back on 2024. What did you crush? What totally flopped? What were you grateful for? What would you do differently? Be honest, and write it down. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and give yourself grace for the things that didn’t go as planned.

2. Declutter your space

Physical clutter can turn into mental clutter—you don’t need that kind of noise in the new year. Whether it’s your closet, your desk, or that one drawer full of random stuff you’re scared to open, decluttering can work wonders. Channel your inner Marie Kondo, toss out what’s not serving you, and keep what sparks joy.

Also a good idea: This is probably the best time to do a digital declutter. Clean out your email inboxes, your Google Drive dumps, and hard drives. Organizing everything now makes you feel like you’re 10 steps ahead of everyone else stumbling out of holiday mode.

3. Review your financials

Look, no one’s asking you to turn into a finance bro with spreadsheets on spreadsheets, but the turn of the year is a great time to check in with your money situation. Did you stick to a budget this past year? Are there subscriptions you forgot about?

Set aside some time to review what’s coming in, what’s going out. Knowing where you are financially can help you set some financial goals for the year, whether it’s building an emergency fund, making an investment, paying off debt, or treating yourself to something big guilt-free.

4. Create a vision board

If you’re rolling your eyes, hear me out — vision boards aren’t a corny team building activity. They’re actually a powerful way to visualize your goals, dreams, and priorities. Whether it’s a physical board with magazine clippings and glue, or a Pinterest board, putting your goals in front of you makes them feel more real.

Include pictures, quotes, or words that inspire you. Think about what you want your life to look like in 2025 and go from there.

5. Define your 2025 Goals

Now that you’ve revisited the past and taken stock of where you are and what you want, it’s time to look forward. Set clear and actionable goals for 2025—both personal and professional. Want to learn a language? Start a business? Maybe just drink more water? (Hydration is important, okay?) Break these goals into manageable chunks, so they don’t feel overwhelming.

Remember: Goals without a plan are just wishful thinking. Which leads to…

6. Map out an action plan

You know all those New Year’s resolutions that never seem to pan out? Yeah, we’re not doing that in 2025.

Repeat after me and say it with conviction: This year, I’m going to get things done.

Write down specific action points to go from “wanting it” to “doing it.” Bonus points if you add deadlines—there’s nothing like a solid timeline to keep you accountable.

Think big, but also think realistic. No, you don’t need to rebrand your whole life in January. Progress, not perfection.

7. Reset Your Routine

The bad news? You can’t hit snooze on life forever. The good news? A new routine can work wonders. Think about how small changes can make your days more productive and fulfilling. Whether you’re setting a regular sleep schedule, sneaking in more “me time,” or swapping mindless scrolling for morning walks, every little tweak counts.

Quick reset ideas you can try now:

• Set an alarm to go to bed (not just to wake up).
• Block off “non-negotiable” time for yourself — even if it’s just 15 minutes a day.
• Plan meals ahead so you’re not eating instant noodles for dinner (again).
• Plan your outfits ahead so you’re not stressed out in the morning.

8. Reconnect with Yourself

Lastly, don’t forget to prioritize the most important person in this reset process — YOU. When was the last time you did something purely because it made you happy? Whether it’s buying fresh flowers, listening to your favorite podcast, or spending a whole day with zero plans, make time to recharge. A self-reset isn’t just about setting goals. It’s also about being kind to yourself.

The more time you spend prioritizing your well-being, the easier it’ll be to crush it in 2025. Happy New Year!