January Spark of Joy
The beginning of the year always brings a plethora of lists of things to do to start the year right and change your life. Everywhere you turn, there’s a “should” list to torment us. But I think we instinctively know that January is the time for rest, not starting something new. Perhaps this is why New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside by the second month. Maybe we “should” (haha) start putting resolutions into practice in March and April, not January.
I propose a different idea: a list of things you CHOOSE to do to bring a spark of joy into your life.
Just the idea that you can choose to do something reframes and shifts your mindset. So much better than a list of things you have to do. We already have plenty of those. Below are some ideas for January. Pick and choose what sounds doable.
Finish a project – I put this one first because what could jumpstart your energy better than finishing one of the many projects you have started!
Listen to a new podcast or lecture – Come on, there must be a new topic that sounds interesting to you, and I am sure there is a podcast and/or lecture on that subject.
Pick a word or phrase of the month – Chunking down inspiration into a month seems much more doable.
Plan a fantasy vacation – I say fantasy because it doesn’t actually have to come to fruition. Daydream a little without guilt or expectations.
Plant or replant – Plants give us hope.
Reinvent a beloved recipe – Make it bigger or smaller. Use different ingredients, mix it up a little.
Try a new recipe – Is there a favorite dish that relates to your fantasy vacation destination?
Make your home smell like January – If you research, there are plenty of ideas to capture the essence of the month in scent.
Pick a photo and make a color palette – Pick a picture you have already taken and ask yourself: were the colors what prompted you to take it in the first place?
Go on a scavenger hunt with the color palette – Now, go around your home and collect things you already have that reflect your new color palette.
You see, January doesn’t have to be full of pressure to change. It can be a gentle time to explore what is around you and pay attention to what might be in the future. If none of these ideas tickle your fancy, hopefully, while reading this post, something else sparked.
Go, do, and enjoy!
