New year self-care starts with rethinking how we approach January. New Year’s Day often feels like the ultimate kickoff to a better, brighter version of ourselves. For many, it’s a time to set ambitious goals, create detailed vision boards, and commit to transformative habits. But what if January isn’t the month to go full steam ahead? What if instead, you embraced a slower, more intentional start to the year—a concept known as “Gentle January”?
A New Approach to the New Year
At Aspyre Wealth Partners, we understand the pressure to begin the year with big goals and a flurry of activity. But sometimes, life calls for a different approach. Our Chief Wealth Officer, Jessi Chadd, reflects, “New Year’s Day used to feel like my Super Bowl. I thrived on creating vision boards and setting ambitious resolutions. But over time, I realized the importance of giving myself permission to ease into the year.”
Life’s challenges, such as a global pandemic and personal health hurdles, taught Jessi—and many of us—that a softer approach can be just as impactful. This realization led her to embrace Gentle January, a philosophy that encourages starting the year at a pace that feels right for you.
What is Gentle January?
Gentle January is all about creating the start to the year that works best for you. “It’s not about abandoning goals,” Jessi explains. “It’s about setting intentions with self-compassion and recognizing that winter can be a time for rest and reflection, not just action.”
For some, this might mean maintaining their traditional resolution-filled January. For others, it could mean focusing on smaller, intentional actions. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula—and that’s the beauty of Gentle January. The key is to approach the month in a way that’s gentle on you and sustainable for your goals.
Making Life Count—Gently
At Aspyre Wealth Partners, our mission is to help clients make life count. This philosophy isn’t just about financial planning; it’s about aligning your actions with your values and living with intention. Gentle January embodies this idea by encouraging you to ease into your goals while focusing on balance and self-care.
“Making Life Count! is about finding harmony between today’s priorities and tomorrow’s aspirations,” Jessi notes. “We believe January is the perfect time to reflect on what matters most and set the tone for a fulfilling year.”
Instead of trying to accomplish everything all at once, use January to clarify your goals and identify what’s truly important to you. This approach allows you to build a foundation for sustainable success throughout the year.
Practical Tips for a Gentle Start to the Year
- Reflect Before You Resolve: Before diving into resolutions, spend time reflecting on the past year. What worked? What didn’t? What do you want to carry forward, and what are you ready to leave behind? Reflection is the first step to setting meaningful, personalized goals.
- Set Small, Manageable Goals: Start with smaller, actionable steps rather than overwhelming yourself with major changes. For example, if improving your health is a priority, commit to moving your body in some way every day, whether it’s a walk, yoga, or stretching.
- Create Space for Rest: Winter is a season for restoration. Prioritize activities that recharge you, like reading a book, completing a puzzle, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee. “For me, rest looks like curling up with a good book or spending a weekend away to reconnect with my husband,” Jessi reflects.
- Incorporate Gratitude and Mindfulness: Small habits like daily gratitude practices or mindfulness exercises can help you stay present and grounded. These practices bring clarity to your goals and improve your overall well-being.
- Focus on Connection: Use this time to nurture your relationships. Whether it’s planning the year with a partner, catching up with a friend, or scheduling family time, connection brings joy and meaning to your life.
Prioritizing New Year Self-Care
At its heart, Gentle January is a form of new year self-care. It’s about giving yourself the grace to start the year with intention and balance, rather than pressure and exhaustion. Taking time for self-reflection, rest, and mindfulness helps lay the groundwork for a fulfilling year.
Jessi sums it up perfectly: “It’s not about how much you accomplish in January—it’s about setting the stage for a year that aligns with your values and brings fulfillment.”
A Year of Intention
Gentle January is an invitation to begin the year with intention, balance, and self-compassion. At Aspyre Wealth Partners, we’re here to help you make life count in every season. Whether you’re ready to set financial goals, plan for the future, or simply find balance in your day-to-day life, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s make 2025 your year—one gentle step at a time.