Things to Do in January: Start the Year Off Organized

January marks a fresh start for new beginnings, self-reflection, and setting positive intentions for the year ahead. This January to do list is one of my favorite ways to set the tone for the rest of the year – through organization and purposeful planning. Sound boring? You will love these changes to start the new year on the right foot!

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New Year’s Resolutions or Goals

After the excitement of New Year’s Day, many of us feel inspired to set New Year’s resolutions.

Instead, try setting personal goals and incorporating new habits. Whether you are looking to prioritize health, declutter and organize your home, or streamline your Google calendar, January is the ideal time to take action.

This January to do list will help you start the year on the right, staying organized and motivated every step.

Need more inspiration, check out this article:

• Achieve Your Goals Faster with This Free Habit Tracker PDF

A January Bucket List: Wellness Edition

At the beginning of each year, reassess your healthy habits and set new wellness goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re looking to recover from holiday indulgences, start a new exercise routine, or build a daily gratitude practice, remember that small, consistent steps lead to significant changes!

Here are five ideas to inspire your January self-care journey.

1. Improve Your Eating Habits

What does this mean for you? Are you looking to recover from holiday treats, limit sugar, reduce carbs, or join a program?

Consider why you want to make these changes and set a date in your January calendar for when to start.

2. Exercise Regularly

Do you have a consistent exercise routine? Is it working for you, or would you like to mix things up? If not, what small step can you take to begin moving more in the new year?

From personal experience, enjoying your exercise routine is key to making it stick. Find activities you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s a morning walk, yoga, dance, or weightlifting.

Once you do, exercise won’t feel like a chore—it’ll become something you look forward to! Start by blocking out time in your calendar a few days a week for movement that makes you happy.

3. Practice Gratitude

Using the 5-Minute Journal is my favorite way to start my day with a positive outlook. Try adding this to your January to do list, it really does take 5 minutes to fill in the prompts.

I suggest scheduling some time in your morning to write what you are grateful for daily. Doing this consistently can significantly impact your overall outlook on life.

Related Resource:

• 5-Minute Journal

4. Time for Family & Friends

In today’s world, isolating ourselves from social events and relying on online alternatives is so easy. We become too comfortable in our routines and forget the joy of spending time with loved ones.

Life can be busy, and if we don’t make an effort, we risk missing out on memorable moments. That’s why scheduling fun activities with family and friends is essential to enjoy each other’s company and create lasting memories.

Take the first step by planning something exciting in your calendar.

5. Schedule Appointments

January is the perfect month to care for your health and wellness needs by scheduling appointments with your medical, dental, optometrist, and other health professionals.

This will help you get started with your healthcare goals for the year and ensure that you’re on the right track to maintaining your well-being.

January Financial Planning: Start the To Do List with Clear Goals

The start of the year is a great time to review and plan your financial priorities. Setting short-term and long-term goals can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the year.

With today’s online banking tools, managing your finances has never been more convenient. You can create accounts, set up direct deposits, and pay bills—all from the comfort of your home.

1. Set Short-Term Financial Goals

Short-term goals are a fantastic way to build momentum and see quick wins. Consider saving $1,000 for an emergency fund, planning a weekend getaway, or setting aside money for a larger purchase like furniture or the latest tech gadget. These small, achievable goals can give you confidence and inspire you to stay on track.

2. Define Long-Term Financial Goals

Long-term goals require a broader vision but are equally important. Whether paying off debt, saving for a down payment on a home, building an investment, or preparing for retirement, having clear objectives will guide your financial decisions throughout the year.

3. Schedule Regular Financial Reviews

Consistency is key to financial success. Set aside time for weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reviews:

• Weekly: Balance your accounts and track your spending.
• Monthly: Adjust your budget and ensure bills are paid on time.
• Quarterly and annually: Discuss your financial goals with your partner or family to ensure everyone is on the same page. These check-ins aren’t just about numbers—they’re a way to connect and strengthen relationships.

4. Use a Financial Organizing System That Works for You

The right system can make all the difference. Personally, I use the budget-by-paycheck method, which keeps things simple and manageable for my family.

While my siblings (who are accountants!) excel at detailed financial planning, I find that this system helps me stay on track. Choose a method that fits your style, whether a spreadsheet, app, or planner, and stick with it.

By mapping out your finances in January, you’ll set the foundation for a more organized and financially secure year.

Related Resource:

• Budget by Paycheck Planner

January Home Goals: Start Fresh at Home

The new year is a perfect opportunity to focus on your home and tackle a few achievable goals. With a large daily to do list, creating monthly home goals in Janaury allows you to stay organized and feel accomplished as you check tasks off your list.

1. Take Down and Store Holiday Decorations

It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions when packing the holiday decorations. While saying goodbye to the festive season can feel bittersweet, it also marks a fresh start for your home.

Use this time to assess your storage solutions for lights, ornaments, trees, and other holiday items. Invest in sturdy bins, ornament organizers, and labeled containers to ensure your decorations stay protected and that they are easy to access next year.

A little effort now can save you a lot of time and hassle later!

2. Organize Holiday Photos

Do you find organizing photos overwhelming? While today’s digital tools make it easier, many of us still have a mix of digital and physical photos. January is a great time to gather and organize your holiday memories. Here’s how:

• Transfer photos from your camera and mobile phone to your computer or tablet.
• Create a folder and name it something like “Christmas [Year].”
• Option 1: Create a main folder called Christmas with subfolders for each year.
• Option 2: Create a main folder by year with subfolders for different events, like Christmas.
• Delete any blurry, duplicate, or unwanted photos.
• Back up your photos to a cloud service or external drive.
• Consider creating a memory book with a service like Mixbook.

A personalized photo book is a beautiful way to preserve those cherished holiday moments.

Related Resource:

• Mixbook

3. Organize the Pantry

If health goals are on your January to do list, refreshing your pantry is a great way to start. A tidy, well-organized pantry makes healthy eating easier and sets the tone for a productive year in the kitchen. Here are some tips:

• Remove everything from your pantry and check expiration dates.
• Wipe down shelves and add liners for a polished look.
• Group items by category (baking supplies, snacks, canned goods) for easy access.
• Use storage solutions like clear containers, turntables, and baskets to maximize space.
• Label everything to maintain your system over time.

By focusing on these home goals, you’ll create a cleaner, more organized space to kick off the year with clarity and purpose.

A Fun List To Do in January

While January is often focused on resolutions and organization, it’s also important to carve out time for fun and relaxation. Here are some enjoyable activities to make the most of the month:

1. Enjoy Winter Walks

Bundle up and take a walk in a nearby park or nature trail. We have trails nearby and love how the crisp, fresh air can be refreshing and inspiring. Don’t forget a thermos of hot cocoa or tea for a cozy treat afterward!

2. Host a Game or Movie Night

Invite family or friends over for a cozy night in. Pick your favorite board games, card games (our fav), or a movie marathon to enjoy together. We give out bonus points for cozy blankets and popcorn!

3. Try a New Hobby

January is a great time to explore something new, like knitting, painting, or even starting a puzzle. A creative project can help you unwind while bringing a sense of accomplishment.

4. Bake Something Delicious

Spend a day baking seasonal treats or try a new recipe. From yummy soups to winter-inspired cookies, baking is a fun way to stay cozy indoors and treat yourself to something sweet. Looking for ideas, check out my favorite sweet recipes!

5. Visit a Local Museum or Gallery

Beat the winter blues by exploring a museum, gallery, or cultural event in your area. It’s a great way to learn something new and spark your creativity.

6. Visit an Ice Rink or Sliding Hill

Make the most of the winter weather with outdoor activities like ice skating or sledding. Whether with kids or embracing your inner child, these activities are guaranteed to bring smiles.

7. Plan a Cozy Reading Day

Imagine a day where you can pick up a good book you’ve been meaning to read, grab a blanket, and settle in for a day of uninterrupted reading. Pair it with homemade hot chocolate and get into your comfort zone. 

By mixing fun and relaxation with your goals this January, you’ll create a balanced and enjoyable start to the new year.

Thinking Ahead in January: Plan for a Stress-Free Year

January is a great time to start planning for what lies ahead. Taking a proactive approach to upcoming events and responsibilities can help reduce stress and keep you organized throughout the year. Here are a few things to think about this month:

Start Your Year Right with a January To Do List

January is the month of the year that can set the tone for months ahead. This January to do list is designed to help you focus on what matters most, from creating a fresh start at home to planning for the months to come.

Are you incorporating any of these ideas into your January routine? I’d love to hear how you’re starting the new year on the right foot! Share your plans in the comments, and let’s inspire each other to make this year our most organized and fulfilling yet.

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