As the new year approaches, the world is YOUR oyster and it’s a fresh opportunity to strengthen your habits, relationships and goals. It’s a great time to create intentions by reflecting on what worked and what didn’t in 2025 and come up with a plan for 2026. Set realistic goals by using the SMART framework, which helps create goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Most importantly, allow yourself grace by using the 80/20 Rule. Do your best most of the time and don’t get discouraged if you fall off track, pick up and keep going! The goal is progress, NOT perfection.

One key to success in your intentions is to prioritize wellness and self-care. Some great ways to remain mindful and reduce stress is to practice meditation, prioritize sleep and incorporate digital detoxification. You can also create new healthy habits like focusing on hydration and fueling your body with intentional food choices. And when it comes to movement,  Hi Love’s founder, Melissa, likes to create a “no excuse” mentality. “I have a rule that I cannot go to bed for the day unless I’ve done some sort of movement, whether it be weights, step,s or whatever I can fit in for the day,” Melissa said. Other ways to practice self-care might include: changing up your skincare routine, red-light therapy and/or using a sauna regularly, just to name a few.

A great way to make your intentions feel more achievable is to create lightness for yourself in the new year. Remove added noise and weight in your life by setting aside time to declutter. Physically declutter your space by purging unused items and creating new organizational systems in your home to keep you on track. You can also digitally declutter by clearing out your email inbox or finally organizing all of those old photos that have been piling up. Lastly, emotionally declutter by letting go of thoughts, feelings or even relationships that no longer serve you. 

Empower yourself to succeed by leaning on your support system. Focus on strengthening relationships new and old by connecting with loved ones and reaching out to old and new friends, a simple text can go a long way! Lean on those who believe in you and support your goals, those connections bring accountability too! And though it might be difficult, create boundaries for yourself when something or someone doesn’t serve your goals. In addition, practice gratitude by reminding those around you how grateful you are for them and their support in your life. From a professional standpoint, prioritize networking and growth. You can attend new industry events, seek out a mentor and/or reach out to old colleagues to collaborate.

As you close your 2025 chapter, reflect on your lows but prioritize the highs and the feelings they brought you. Let THOSE feelings be your guiding light in 2026 as you seek intention, balance, lightness, and connection! 

What are you most excited to achieve in 2026? Share your intentions in the comments!