7 top tips for thriving in 2025.
Photographs: Pexels
Text: Fiona L Smith
As January begins, we’re in the heavy embrace of deep mid-winter. It’s dark and cold, and most of us are now recovering from the whirlwind of December – a month of pushing against nature’s impulse to hibernate in order to shop, socialise and celebrate.
January isn’t the right time for making sweeping life changes, and unsurprisingly, about 80% of New Year’s resolutions have failed by mid-February. Most people’s resolutions are well-intentioned but unsustainable—a case of too much, too fast, too soon. This ‘change it all’ approach can overwhelm our nervous system, leaving us feeling deflated, defeated, and even ashamed rather than empowered.
So this year, let’s ditch the pressure of resolutions and focus on gentle, embodied steps that nurture lasting change. Here are seven tips to guide you toward a more sustainable and fulfilling year.
1. Embrace small, intentional changes
If something in your life isn’t working, start by acknowledging it. Maybe you’re feeling trapped in a job you hate, are drowning in debt, stuck in a difficult relationship or living somewhere you wish you didn’t? It’s very easy to end up catastrophising, thinking this situation is forever, but it doesn’t have to be.
Start by making really small changes right now to create momentum towards a different future. Identify what you can control and what you love doing and do more of that rather than focusing on external factors outside your control. Even a tiny 2% shift in attention can totally change where we end up. Can you carve out time to work on a passion project or make sure you talk to one friend every day? By taking small, positive actions in the present, you set the stage for bigger shifts to unfold naturally.
2. Put yourself at the centre of your life
Are you a chronic people-pleaser, constantly prioritising others at the expense of your own needs? Are you living your life according to other people’s belief systems rather than your own? If you’ve been living your life with the happiness of others at the centre of it, it’s time to put yourself there and gently reclaim your space and your sense of YOU.
Start by carving out a pocket of time every day just for you. Use it to journal, have a bath or simply sit with a cup of tea in silence, allowing your thoughts to flow. Over time, these ‘me’ moments add up, helping you reconnect with your own needs and desires. Remember, you’re not just a supporting actor in someone else’s story - you’re the lead in your own.
"Ask yourself – are you letting your life happen to you, or are you choosing to believe and act as though you have agency and that you can create a life that happens for you?"
3. Limit stressful input
Does scrolling through the news or Social Media first thing in the morning leave you feeling anxious or inadequate? The brain is wired to amplify whatever we pay attention to. If you start your day steeped in negativity or the perfections of others (versus the perceived inadequacy of your own life), your nervous system will remain on high alert, scanning for more of what is wrong or dangerous.
Give yourself a morning “buffer zone” - wait an hour before picking up your phone and use this time to ease into the day with something calming or energising like a workout, a walk or a mindful moment (there are some fantastic short practices on YouTube if you don’t have your own workout or yoga routine).
4. Cultivate a morning practice
This doesn’t need to be complicated! A few minutes of meditation, breathing exercises, listening to an inspirational podcast or writing a simple gratitude journal can work wonders. Ask yourself: What’s one thing I’m looking forward to today? A recent moment that made me smile or laugh? This practice of paying attention to ‘Glimmers’ (the opposite of trauma triggers) helps your nervous system orient toward safety and connection. It also sets a positive tone for the day ahead, getting your conscious mind looking out for more of the same.
5. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
We know we need to eat well to be healthy, but many people are chronically under-hydrated, which is a huge problem when we consider that our bodies are over 70% water. Begin every day with a large glass of warm water (body temperature) with a good squeeze of lemon juice or a spoonful of apple cider vinegar. This alkalises and cleans the gut, improves the health of the microbiome and boosts our mental capacity – just a 2% reduction in brain hydration can result in short-term memory loss, so we’re doing ourselves a big favour by rehydrating first thing in the morning. And, remember to carry a water bottle with you to drink from throughout the day.
6. Move your body daily
Connect with your body in ways that feel freeing, energising or relaxing. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance in your kitchen, cycling or yoga, the most important thing is to let your body guide you and listen to what it ‘says’ - it will be different every day. Notice how you feel before, during and after you move - perhaps you experience more lightness, warmth, tingling or calm. Movement helps to regulate the nervous system, lift your mood and boost energy. It’s a daily gift of care – a message to yourself that you’re worth it.
7. Take ownership of your life
Much of what happens in our lives is shaped by the choices we make and the actions we take on a daily basis. Ask yourself – are you letting your life happen to you, or are you choosing to believe and act as though you have agency and that you can create a life that happens for you?
I invite you to slow down this January and listen to your body – it’s talking to you in sensations and symptoms – this is a month in which you can plant the seeds of sustainable change. With intention and small steps, you can create a life that feels both nourishing and inspiring - all year round.