Routines and Resolutions for 2026

Happy New Year! As we head into 2026, we’re focusing on small, sustainable routines and habits that support how we want to live day to day. Here are the simple practices we’re carrying into the new year and why they’ve made such a difference for us. 

Choose a word for the New Year

Choosing a single word to guide you through the year can be a more intentional and sustainable alternative to traditional resolutions. While resolutions often come with long lists of expectations and an all-or-nothing mindset that can feel overwhelming, a word acts as a guiding theme without the pressure of perfection. Some examples of words we and others have chosen in past years include: intention, gratitude, confidence, simplicity, sharpen, presence, connection, flow, and consistency. 

Simplify your day by planning ahead 

Simplifying your day often starts the night before. We recently listened to a podcast that discussed daily decision fatigue (click here to listen to the episode). Decision fatigue is the mental exhaustion that builds when we are faced with too many small decisions throughout the day. In the evenings when we are tired after a long day, we’ve found it extremely helpful to do the little things that don’t require much mental energy.

This removes unnecessary stress from your morning, freeing up mental energy for what actually matters, whether that’s showing up focused at work, fitting in a workout, or being more present with family and friends. For example, laying out your outfit, having your morning coffee or breakfast prepared, writing out a rough to-do list for the next day and creating a morning routine you stick to. The goal isn’t perfection but ease and this looks different for everyone. This reframes planning not as pressure or rigidity, but as a form of self-support that fosters strong habits and more follow through.

Stay Connected

As we think about New Year’s resolutions, one of the most meaningful habits we’ve started is to reach out to one friend or family member each week that we haven’t talked to in a while. This doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming. Something as simple as a quick text saying “thinking of you” or sending a photo that will call to mind a cherished memory, only takes a few seconds. When life gets busy, the relationships we value most can unintentionally fall to the side. This creates accountability and helps us stay connected. 

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Celebrating progress, not perfection, is an important mindset when it comes to managing long to-do lists. When our lists become overwhelming, they often have the opposite effect, leaving us feeling behind no matter how much we accomplish in a day. A more effective approach we have found is to begin each day by identifying just one or two priorities at the very top of your list that you are confident you can complete that day. 

At the end of the day, taking the time to reflect on what you DID get done reinforces a sense of accomplishment. We love journaling in the evenings because it allows us to acknowledge even the little accomplishments and end each day on a grateful note. Over time, this practice has helped us build confidence and consistency in our ability to get things done. Shifting focus to appreciating what you have gotten done also reduces the pressure we put on ourselves to do more than is realistic. 

Weekly hobby/learn something new 

We’ve also started incorporating a hobby into our weekly routine, teaching ourselves something new as a way to slow down and be more intentional with how we spend our time, and an alternative to reaching for our phones. Celebrating progress also applies here. Practicing your hobby a little each week makes learning feel manageable and enjoyable, rather than another item on an endless to-do list. This could look like learning to cook something new, learning about a topic that interests you, or reading/watching something new. Not every week will be perfect, what matters most is staying consistent and the curiosity it will bring. Growth doesn’t need to be rushed, which is why this is a habit we’re excited to bring into the new year.

Here are a few more simple things that can be implemented to improve overall well-being and enjoy a more productive and intentional lifestyle. 

• Avoid phone for a few hours in the morning   

• Making time to sit down in the afternoon for a “siesta” or tea time

• Read at least one book per month that is inspiring/beneficial

• Journaling in the morning/evening  

• Create a consistent supplement routine  

• Prioritize sleep and hydration 

• Get outside daily, even if it’s just a short walk

• Keep your space tidy with a quick daily reset

• Prioritize spending time with people who make you the best version of yourself 

XOXO,

Avery & Bliss