Simple Habits for a More Intentional Year
Small Habits + Consistency = Big change
As we step into a fresh year, many of us feel that pull to live more intentionally—to align our days with what truly matters.
My hubbs and I choose a word for the year to help set the tone for 2025 and lean into living life on purpose. Mine this year is “consistent,” which is probably the reason for writing this post. Consistency, although not glamorous, is the precursor to growth and change #1percentbetterclub, so don’t discount the value in continually showing up!
If you don’t know where to start, choose one thing from my list. The path to intentionality doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about creating small, consistent habits that gently guide us toward the life we want.
Keep reading for my four habits to help you cultivate a more intentional year:
Minimalist Tip:
The Power of One — Choose one thing to focus on this week and start with that. A little goes a long way.
Name What Matters
Living intentionally starts with clarity. Take some time to do a brain dump and answer a few reflective questions:
What do you truly want?
How do you want to spend your days?
What’s your word for the year?
How do you want to feel?
Writing these answers down clears mental clutter and serves as your compass for decision-making. When I asked myself these questions, my word for the year became "steady." I realized I crave a slower, more grounded rhythm. What about you? What word or vision might shape your year?
Minimal Wellness
My non-toxic waterless skincare routine has changed my dry, dull skin, from the inside out, I’m obsessed.
Wellness doesn’t have to be a complicated checklist of trends and programs. Often, it’s about returning to the basics for both body and soul. My approach includes these simple yet powerful practices:
Prioritizing nourishing foods
Drinking plenty of water (half my body weight in ounces)
Getting quality sleep (7 hours)
Moving my body regularly (even 10 minutes of movement!)
Sticking to my non-toxic skincare routine
Making time for Bible reading and prayer
Choose the wellness habits that resonate with you, and remember, consistency beats perfection every time.
Don’t Set It Down—Put It Back
Clutter and chaos often sneak in because we delay small decisions. This year, practice the habit of "don’t set it down, put it back." It’s a game-changer for maintaining a tidy space without feeling overwhelmed. Tidying throughout the day—whether it’s returning the scissors to the drawer or hanging up your jacket—is easier than tackling a mountain of mess at the end.
This mindset shift makes daily life smoother and your home a more peaceful retreat.
Set an Overarching Goal
I’ve learned the hard way that setting too many lofty goals often leads to overwhelm and inaction. Instead, I’ve shifted to naming one overarching goal. For me, this year, it’s creating a mini-course. Naming it feels a bit scary—but also exciting. This doesn’t mean you can’t have smaller goals too; it simply helps prioritize what matters most.
Ask yourself: what’s the one thing that would make the biggest difference for you this year? Start there and let it guide your focus.
“Comfort is the Enemy of Growth.”
It’s scary to start, but what’s worse, failing forward or staying where you’re at?I let this propel me forward and get me into activity when I’m reluctant to start.
Living intentionally is less about doing everything and more about doing the right things. By adopting these habits—naming what matters, simplifying wellness, tidying as you go, and focusing on one key goal—you’re setting the stage for a year that reflects your values and desires. Let’s make this year one of purpose and joy.
Are you ready to simplify more areas of your life?
I’d love to hear what one thing you’re working on this new year on your minimalist journey. Connect with me on Instagram @thejoyfulminimalist and let’s cheer one another on!
