21 Things to do In January to start the New Year off Fresh

by Amy Humphrey, Director, Binghamton University Liberty Partnerships Program

How long it takes to create good habits is debatable but I believe that doing anything, consistently, for 21 days is a good way to kick start the work. New Year’s Resolutions may seem cliche too many but to me, it really does remain the ideal time to begin fresh.

Here’s a list of 21 things I’m focusing on this January. Maybe some will resonate with you. And because everyone’s needs are different, use this as a jumping-off point to create a list that feels right for your life.

1. New Year’s Day Hike. Or a commitment to any activity that gets you outdoors, connected with nature and moving your body.
2. Join a 21 Day Challenge. Our students commit to daily steps in their Hero’s Quest, and we can too — one small action at a time.
3. Clean out your kitchen cupboards and restock. I actually cleaned out my kitchen cupboards in December and it felt amazing! The goal is to only put back foods that will nourish.
4. Explore new recipes that will nourish you and your family while still being delicious, create a menu board on Pinterest or anywhere easily accessible to you.
5. Start a Journal and commit to writing everyday. This is everything!  Carve out a time either first thing in the morning or right before you go to bed. I do 10 minutes of guided meditation every morning and follow with a journal entry and it has been a game changer for sure!
6. Walk, run, swim, dance ~ whatever you enjoy. Move more, everyday.
7. Create something. Doodle, write, paint, color, pottery, jewelry, a million craft projects to be found with a simple search - explore your creativity!
8. Create a vision board.  
9. Daily Gratitude. Take a moment to give thanks.
10. Connect with friends. Schedule dates, take a trip, or just plan a face-to-face get together.
11. Complete a puzzle.
12. Refresh your beauty or hair routine. Watch a quick tutorial and try something new - small changes can feel good.
13. Visit a local coffee shop. Instead of scrolling social media from your couch, get dressed and go hang IRL.
14. People watch - enjoy being a part of your community.
15. Enjoy a cozy movie or series night. Blankets, snacks, and zero guilt.
16. Cozy up and read a book. I have had a stack of books I have wanted to read for some time now. Pick one and dive in!
17. Buy yourself something special. You spent December shopping for others, consider yourself. It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, it could be bubble bath soap for that matter. But consider yourself and your needs and treat yourself.
18. Do a brain puzzle everyday for 21 days, like Wordle and Waffle or my new favorite, Zen Word. I make these a part of my daily routine, I enjoy the exercise for my brain.
19. Host a dinner party, or game night, sled party, snowball fight ~ whatever, just invite a few friends over! Laugh and let loose a bit.
20. Write and send thank you cards to people who really showed up for you in 2025. I have a long list ;)
21. Declutter one small space. A drawer, closet shelf, nightstand — even little resets create big energy shifts.