January Is Not a Reset Button (And That’s Okay)
If this past month felt heavy, slow, or chaotic, you’re not alone.
So many of you have shared that you were sick, exhausted, thrown off your routine, or simply struggling to find your rhythm again after the holidays. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human.
And yet, every January we’re hit with the same message:
“New year, new you.”
“This is your fresh start.”
“Now is the time to go all in.”
But here’s the truth most productivity culture doesn’t want to admit:
January is not a natural time to go full throttle.
Your Body Isn’t a Machine
In nature, January is a dormant season.
The days are short. The light is low. The earth is resting.
And so are we, even if society pretends we shouldn’t be.
Energy levels tend to dip this time of year. Our nervous systems are coming down from the stress and stimulation of the holidays. Many of us are recovering from illness, disrupted sleep, and emotional overload.
Yet we’re expected to suddenly become “our best selves” on January 1st?
That pressure is not aligned with how humans actually work.
Why Resolutions Fail
We’re also told that if we just try harder, we’ll transform our lives in January.
But the data says otherwise.
Studies show that only about 8% of people are still sticking to their New Year’s resolutions by March.
That’s not because people are lazy or undisciplined.
It’s because willpower alone is not a sustainable strategy, especially when you’re already tired.
This Is Not Me Saying “Give Up”
Movement still matters.
Structure still matters.
Your health still matters.
Exercise does support energy, mood, and mental clarity.
And yes, having a routine is incredibly grounding.
What I am saying is this:
Give yourself some grace.
If January feels slower…
If you’re not as consistent as you hoped…
If your motivation feels quieter…
That doesn’t mean something is wrong with you.
It means you’re in a season of building, not racing.
Think: Laying the Foundation, Not Flooring the Gas
January doesn’t need to be about radical transformation.
It can be about:
Reconnecting to movement
Rebuilding habits gently
Showing up imperfectly
Creating momentum without burning out
You’re not behind.
You’re not broken.
You’re not doing it wrong.
You’re just waking up after winter.
Let this month be about setting the tone—not proving your worth.
Slow roots grow deep.
And when the energy returns, you’ll be ready.
Here’s to steady roots and soft starts,
Allison :)
