The Truth About New Year’s Resolutions: It’s Okay to Take Your Time

The Truth About New Year’s Resolutions: It’s Okay to Take Your Time

Every January 1st, we’re inundated with messages urging us to start fresh. But what if you’re just.not. feeling it? What if the pressure to hit the ground running only adds to your stress?

Here’s the truth: January 1st hasn’t always marked the beginning of the year, and it doesn’t have to be your starting point either. Embracing a timeline that works for you can be the key to making those intentions into actions that truly stick.

Why January 1st Feels Like the Starting Line

As soon as December 25th is over a wave of energy rushes all over the place – people making resolutions, joining gyms, and setting ambitious goals for the new year. For many, this marks a fresh start, a clean slate to reset and chase after dreams. That totally tracks as far as how I did things for a long time, too. (I adore new beginnings and Monday is actually my favorite day of the week 🙈)

But for women like us, who juggle careers, relationships, and personal commitments, it can feel overwhelming. The pressure to kick off the year with big ambitions can leave you feeling more stressed than motivated.

It’s easy to get caught up in the collective rush—seeing everyone else seemingly thriving and achieving. But the truth is, January 1st hasn’t always been the official “new year.” Cultures throughout history have celebrated the start of the year at different times—some in spring, others in the fall. What if your own personal new year isn’t tied to this calendar at all?

For high-achieving women – who feel they’re constantly racing to keep up – January can feel like just another deadline. Perhaps you head a fast-paced team (in the office or at home), and often sacrifice your own needs for the demands of others. Maybe you have built a successful business, and find yourself caught in a cycle of perfectionism that prevents you from fully celebrating your achievements. You’re incredibly capable, yet struggle to navigate the demands of life while maintaining balance.

This pressure to “start fresh” on January 1st can actually be overwhelming, leading to burnout before the year even begins. You don’t have to conform to this calendar-driven cycle. Instead, consider when you naturally feel ready to shift, to renew, and to set intentions. It might not be January—it could be February, March, or even later. And that’s okay.

Historical Context – Let’s go back for a sec

We often think of January 1st as the universal start to the new year, but that hasn’t always been the case. Throughout history, different cultures and societies marked the beginning of a new year at various times—based on seasonal shifts, agricultural cycles, or significant religious events. In fact, January is relatively new in terms of being recognized as the start of the year.

The ancient Romans originally used March 1st as the beginning of their year, aligning with the agricultural season when planting began. The Egyptians, too, celebrated their New Year during the rise of the Nile, which marked a shift in the agricultural cycle. In Chinese culture, the New Year falls on the lunar calendar, which fluctuates between late January and mid-February. The Jewish New Year, occurs in the early autumn, around September. These different traditions reflect how early societies used natural events to mark the passage of time.

January wasn’t even officially adopted as the start of the year until the Roman calendar was reformed in 46 BCE by Julius Caesar. Prior to this, the calendar fluctuated significantly, and many cultures were attuned to lunar phases, solstices, or even the stars to determine when a new year began. The shift to January was more about aligning with Roman political and social systems than any universal, natural cycle. Simply realizing this puts me in “rebel” mode…

The new year doesn’t have to start in January for you. Just as different societies found meaning in different times, you too can choose a moment that aligns with your own rhythm—one that feels natural and aligned to your current life circumstances.

Why Timing Matters

January 1st often feels like the “right” time to set new goals, but the truth is, timing isn’t one-size-fits-all. The start of the year may work well for some, but for others, it can feel rushed, driven more by societal expectations than personal readiness. The key to making meaningful changes lies in understanding your own personal circumstances, energy levels, and natural rhythms—and recognizing that true change happens when you feel prepared, not when the calendar tells you to.

Everyone has unique cycles of energy and motivation. Some seasons of the year naturally feel more aligned with reflection and planning, while others may be better suited to action and implementation. For example, winter tends to be a time of introspection and rest, where you may find it challenging to summon the energy to create big changes. Meanwhile, spring, with its promise of new growth, often feels more vibrant and full of potential. And yet, others might feel energized during the summer months, when the days are long and the world feels alive.

Trying to force yourself into action when your energy is low or when external circumstances don’t align can lead to burnout or unmet expectations. It’s essential to listen to your body and mind, noticing what feels right rather than what feels like an obligation. What if your “new year” didn’t start in January at all? What if it began when you felt more clear, more connected to what you truly want to create?

It might not be until mid-February or March when you feel truly ready to set clear intentions. Or maybe you thrive in the warmer months, so summer might be the time when you naturally feel most energized to reflect on your goals. These are the moments when your mind and body align, making it easier to commit and follow through.

By paying attention to your own timing, you create space for lasting, sustainable change. It’s not about sticking to a rigid schedule; it’s about being intentional and authentic in the way you approach your goals. Every individual’s journey is unique, and the moment when you feel ready to start fresh may not align with the traditional January 1st. The truth is, you don’t have to wait for a specific date to set new intentions or embrace change. A personal ‘New Year’ is about recognizing your own natural rhythms and identifying the moments when you feel most aligned, energized, and ready to move forward.

For some, this could be tied to the seasons—maybe you feel recharged in the spring, with the burst of new life around you. Others may find clarity during quieter times, like autumn, when the world begins to slow down and you have space to reflect. The key is to observe when you naturally feel most centered and ready to take action. These moments—whether they come in the middle of the year or during quieter winter months—can be powerful opportunities to reset and create new paths forward.

One way to identify your personal ‘New Year’ is by paying close attention to your energy levels and emotional state. Think about the times in your life when you’ve felt the most motivated—what circumstances surrounded those moments? Were you feeling more inspired after spending time in nature, connecting deeply with others, or simply taking a break from routine? Reflecting on these experiences can offer valuable clues about what might work best for you.

Another helpful practice is to track your internal rhythms. You could start by mapping out your energy throughout different parts of the year—when do you feel the most creative? When do you feel like retreating inward? These insights can help you pinpoint the right time for setting new goals, without the added pressure of external expectations.

By embracing this personalized approach, you can create momentum on your own terms – you will feel pulled toward your goals, rather than pushed into them, nor will you have to wait for the calendar to dictate when you’re ready. You’re the one who knows best when the time feels right to plant new seeds of growth.

Tips for Intentions That Lead to Sustainable Action

Setting resolutions can be empowering, but it’s easy to fall into the trap of unrealistic expectations, no matter what time of year you’re beginning. Instead of setting rigid goals that feel overwhelming, consider a more flexible approach—one that honors your unique needs and keeps you moving forward with purpose.

Here are some actionable tips to help you set resolutions that work without falling into the January pressure trap:

Start with Clarity, Not Overwhelm

Before you dive into goal-setting, take a moment to reflect on what feels most out of balance in your life. What areas need your attention—whether it’s finding more time for yourself or creating stronger boundaries with work? Start by understanding what’s weighing on you, not just what needs to be fixed. This clarity allows you to move forward with purpose. Here’s a quick worksheet to help get you started.

Be Before You Do

Before focusing on what you need to accomplish, focus on who you need to be in this season of your life. What kind of energy do you want to cultivate? What values do you want to embody? By starting with “being” – your mindset, energy, and approach – you can align your actions in a way that feels more authentic and intentional.

Allow Yourself to Start Small and Slow

Trying to do everything at once, let’s face it, doesn’t work. Not in the long run. Believe me, I’ve tried! Instead, break your intentions down into small, actionable steps that build over time. Start with one thing – whether it’s finding small pockets of time for self-care or making one simple change in your routine – and build from there. Small wins create momentum, making progress feel sustainable.

Embrace Flexibility

Life doesn’t always go as planned (sigh), and it’s important to allow room for adjustments along the way. Sometimes unexpected events arise, or energy levels fluctuate. Instead of sticking rigidly to goals, allow yourself to pivot when needed. Whether it’s shifting priorities or adapting schedules, flexibility helps you stay on track without unnecessary stress.

Prioritize Self-Compassion

Trying to achieve everything at once can lead to burnout. Remember that progress isn’t always linear, and it’s okay to slow down when needed. Give yourself grace during moments when things don’t go as planned. Progress comes through consistent practice and self-care, not perfection. Remember to let go of the guilt around having to let go or set something down temporarily because you need to rest!

Check-in with Yourself Regularly

Goals are more than just something to accomplish. They require regular reflection to ensure they still serve your best interests. Take time to check in with yourself—what’s working? What feels off? Regular reflection allows you to make adjustments before things get overwhelming.

And the BEST part is –

No matter when your personal ‘New Year’ begins, the journey of setting meaningful goals isn’t something you have to navigate alone. Share your intentions with someone you trust—whether it’s a close friend, a family member, or someone else who truly understands what you’re aiming for. Better yet, find an intention buddy who’s on a similar path. Together, you can offer each other encouragement, keep each other accountable, and celebrate each small step along the way.

The power of having someone by your side—someone who truly sees and supports you—can make the process feel lighter and more grounded. You don’t need to shout your resolutions from the rooftops or share them widely unless it feels authentic to you. This journey is yours to honor, but having someone to walk alongside you can bring a sense of connection and reassurance.

If you feel ready to step into this intentional space and would like some heart-centered guidance, reach out to me. I’m here to offer support, clarity, and encouragement – helping you stay aligned with what matters most to you. Get a spot on my calendar here – it’s non-binding and free, let’s chat about what you REALLY want to create in your life!