First of all — Happy New Year. Happy 2026 ✨
The year has just begun, and like most people, I’m stepping into it with a lot of thoughts and no loud resolutions.
Dublin has been colder than usual, but the year started with a rare four hours of sunshine — which honestly felt like a gift, considering the country’s track record with weather. I’ll take it.
Some people start the year with detailed resolutions, vision boards, and big plans. Some don’t. And some pretend they do, while internally rolling their eyes at the whole thing. Wherever you fall on that spectrum — it’s all fine.
Personally, I like having an aim rather than a strict plan. Something to come back to when the year feels long or overwhelming.
So if you haven’t thought of anything yet, here are three simple habits I’m easing into this year. Feel free to steal them.
1. Budget Your Finances (Gently)
No spreadsheets. No accountant energy.
Just look at what went in and what went out last year. That’s it.
Not to judge yourself — but to understand yourself.
Knowing where your money goes, how much you save, and what you spend without guilt is a form of self-respect. It gives you clarity and freedom, not restriction.
You don’t need to plan the entire year. Start with one month. Track. Adjust. Repeat.
Small clarity is better than none.
2. Prioritise Your Health (Without Perfection)
Health isn’t just “I can walk fine, so I’m good.”
Trust me — that logic collapses quickly when you’re climbing stairs in Edinburgh and running out of breath halfway through.
Every January, people join gyms with great motivation. The real question is:
How do you show up on the days motivation disappears?
You don’t have to change everything at once. Pick one thing:
- walking 5,000 steps a day and slowly increasing it
- drinking enough water (yes, the toilet trips are annoying)
- getting your blood work done when your GP suggests
- saying no when you’re tired — even if it’s uncomfortable
Consistency matters more than intensity.
3. Do More of What Makes You Feel Alive
Everyone has their own version of this.
That one thing that lights you up — even slightly. For me, it’s planning travel. Choosing a destination. Having something to look forward to while navigating adult life and routines.
It doesn’t have to be exotic or expensive.
Even the intention to move, explore, or experience something new changes your mindset.
Movement – physical or mental – changes the mind.
A Gentle Start
I don’t think you need five resolutions or a bucket list of 25 things to start a year well.
You just need something that makes you feel good when you look back at the year in December.
This feels like a good place to start.
And if you have more ideas, feel free to add them in the comments — I’d love to know what you’re easing into this year.
If you are still figuring things out, welcome. You are exactly where you need to be.
Here’s to a softer, steadier 2026.
One habit at a time.