January Reset: Style, Habits and Home
January doesn’t need to be loud, extreme, or all about reinventing yourself overnight. I like to think of it as a soft reset — a chance to realign after the holidays, refresh what’s already working, and gently set the tone for the months ahead. No pressure, no perfection.
This year, I’m moving away from January 1st “resolutions” that just set yourself up for failure and focusing on building on the habits I’ve already started over the last few months. If you’re craving a calmer start to the year, here’s how I’m approaching it.
1. Style: Refresh, Don’t Reinvent
After the holiday season (and all the sparkle and sweatpants), January is the perfect time to come back to your everyday style. Instead of buying an entirely new wardrobe, I’m focusing on editing and elevating what I already own and only investing in high quality basics.
A few gentle style resets I love:
- Do a closet reset, not a purge. Try everything on. Keep what fits your body right now and makes you feel confident. If it’s a sentimental/special piece, put it away in storage. You don’t need those jeans you never wore that are half a size too small “just incase”
- Build a cozy capsule. Think great denim, soft knits, elevated basics, and one or two statement pieces that make getting dressed feel fun and effortless. Need some cozy inspo? I’ve got you covered
- Upgrade the small things. A structured tote, gold hoops, a neutral belt, or a polished pair of flats can completely change an outfit. Invest in the pieces that you can wear with any outfit and have a low cost-per-wear value.
January style, to me, is all about comfort with intention. Outfits that feel effortless but still put-together.
2. Habits: Small Shifts That Stick
New year habits don’t need to be dramatic to be effective. I’m skipping the all-or-nothing mindset and focusing on routines that feel supportive rather than restrictive.
Habits I’m gently leaning into:
- Morning light + movement. Even a short walk or stretch helps me feel more awake and balanced. I started going on short 15-20 minute walks before work in November and that has really help keep me motivated throughout the day. I recommend a sunrise alarm clock to help waking up during the dark winter mornings a little easier.
- Consistent meals over “perfect” eating. Nourishing, realistic choices beat extremes every time. This year my goal is to meal prep lunches and dinner each week. (Here’s some of my favorite meal prep tools)
- A short daily reset. Ten minutes to tidy, plan tomorrow, and set out an outfit — it makes a bigger difference than you’d think.
Instead of asking, “How can I change everything?” I’m asking, “What would make my days feel easier?”
3. Home: Calm, Cozy & Functional
Winter is when home really becomes a sanctuary. January is my favorite time to reset spaces so they feel cozy, functional, and calm.
Simple home resets to try:
- Clear surfaces first. Nightstands, coffee tables, kitchen counters — less visual clutter instantly lowers stress. Take 10-15 minutes at the end of the night to do the “closing shift” helps you go to bed without having to wrry about leaving a mess for tomorrow you.
- Swap in cozy textures. Knit throws, soft rugs, neutral pillows, and warm lighting go a long way.
- Create one intentional corner. A reading chair, a coffee nook, or a bedside setup that feels peaceful and personal. Let this be a functional yet relaxing space curated to your favorite things. I’ll be finishing my office/library loft this new year.
Your home doesn’t need to be perfect , it just needs to support the life you’re actually living.
A Reminder for January
You don’t need a brand-new version of yourself this month. You’re allowed to move slowly. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to build habits that feel good instead of impressive.
A gentle January reset is about alignment, not pressure, and trusting that small, thoughtful changes add up over time.
If you’re resetting alongside me, I’d love to know: which area are you focusing on for your January reset?
