2024 may not have been the best year– perhaps not even close to good for some. However, 2025 doesn’t have to be the same way. New years have always been defined by fresh starts and (unrealistic) resolutions. Honestly, we’re not here to dictate what resolutions you should make. As the new year approaches, many of us turn to our diaries and start listing resolutions (often more like dreams and wishes). These long lists can quickly become overwhelming, leaving us disappointed and discouraged by the year’s end. Why don’t you change the narrative this year? 2025 is two days away, but you still have the chance to detox your soul and mind. Let go of everything that happened in 2024 and set yourself free.
If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide or advice on how to “fix” things, this isn’t that kind of column to read. Your redemption lies in the small, everyday things that you may believe have no impact—yet these simple actions might bring the greatest changes.
TAKE YOURSELF FOR AN EARLY MORNING WALK
This one doesn’t involve your earphones or your favorite playlist. Get up early in the morning, put on your clothes, and go for a walk—until your feet feel tired. Think of nothing but what you see around you. Breathe deeply and let the morning air wash away any lingering stress. Disconnect from your usual distractions (like your phone or music) and allow yourself to experience life in its raw, unfiltered form. You’ll feel much lighter afterwards, guaranteed.
TAKE YOURSELF ON A DATE ON NYE
Yes, we know New Year’s Eve is typically a time for groups, not for solitude. But if you have the chance to sneak away for an hour to enjoy some coffee alone, take it. Give yourself the opportunity to look back at 2024 without external influences. Reflect on everything the year brought—both the good and the challenging. Allow yourself to feel it all deeply. Thank yourself for holding on and making it to December. Forgive yourself for your mistakes, and offer forgiveness to others as well.
SMILE TO A STRANGER
This may sound trivial, but think about it for a moment. What if that stranger is having a rough day—or a tough year? Small acts of kindness can have an enormous impact. Wouldn’t it feel good to receive a random smile from someone, especially when you’re not expecting it? The cruel life we live in has made millions of grumpy faces. Be the inspiration for others to smile in spite of their agonies.
“Today, give a stranger one of your smiles. It might be the only sunshine he sees all day.” – H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
EAT YOUR FAVORITE FOOD
Cook your favorite meal or order from your favorite restaurant. Do it without guilt and enjoy every bite with love for yourself. This isn’t about emotional eating—it’s about enjoying a good meal.
DO A GOOD DEED
Whether it’s cooking a meal for someone in need, sharing some of the cake you made with your neighbor, or visiting a nursing home to spend time with the residents, good deeds always come back to you in some form. You may not immediately feel the rewards, but you’ll experience a sense of satisfaction and well-being. You might even make someone else’s day a little brighter.
WATCH YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE/SHOW
Take time to watch that movie or show you’ve been meaning to enjoy. It’s okay to unwind and let yourself be entertained, especially if it brings you comfort. Give yourself permission to relax and indulge in something that makes you happy.
If you’re asking for a recommendation, our editors think you should definitely watch “New Year’s Eve.”
MAKE YOUR WISHES FOR 2025, SILENTLY
This year, instead of broadcasting all your wishes and dreams, consider keeping them to yourself. There’s power in quiet intention. Reflect on what you truly want from 2025 and allow yourself the space to silently wish for it. Sometimes, the universe listens more closely when we speak to it quietly.
Embrace the little things that bring joy, and step into the new year with a renewed sense of hope, peace, and gratitude.
