Every winter, it feels like social media collectively decides it’s time for a complete life transformation. Suddenly, everyone wakes up in the early hours of the morning, hits the gym six days a week, reads 50 books, and becomes the most productive version of themselves. And while there’s nothing wrong with wanting to improve yourself, keeping up with a full-blown winter arc can start to feel like another thing on your already overwhelming to-do list.
But if you’re ready to romanticize your life and build better habits — without turning your entire routine upside down — consider trying a monthly 10 list instead. Writer and content strategist Julianna Salguero originated this concept in a Substack post on April 3, 2026, titled “You Need to Be Making Monthly Top 10 Lists,” explaining that this approach focuses on choosing 10 things you want to do each month. Instead of committing to a strict daily routine or setting huge goals that feel impossible to maintain, you create a manageable list of experiences, habits, and little goals you want to prioritize for the next 30 or so days. Think of it as a mini bucket list for the month, with just enough structure to keep you motivated without making you feel like you’re failing if life gets busy.
The best part? Your list can look however you want. Maybe you want to try a new coffee shop, finish a book you’ve been putting off, go on more walks, plan a night out with your friends, or finally clean out your closet. You can include personal goals, social plans, wellness habits, or things you’ve been wanting to try but haven’t gotten around to. Not every item needs to be a major accomplishment. Sometimes, just getting out of your dorm room and trying a new matcha spot counts as self-improvement, too.
For example, your November list could include things like going to the gym twice a week, trying one new recipe, having a movie night with friends, spending less time scrolling before bed, and taking yourself on a solo date. The goal isn’t to pack your schedule with 10 more obligations. It’s to be intentional about how you spend your time and make room for things that genuinely make you feel good.
A monthly 10 list is also a great way to make your goals feel less intimidating. Instead of telling yourself you need to become a completely different person by the end of winter, you can focus on small changes that fit into your actual life. You can even adjust your list as the month goes on and your priorities shift. And remember: You don’t have to accomplish all 10 things on your list for the month to count as a success. The list is there to inspire you, not give you another reason to feel behind. If you’re swamped with classes, work, or other responsibilities, there’s no reason to feel guilty about leaving something for next month. If you check off six items and discover a new hobby, spend more time with friends, or simply make your routine feel a little more enjoyable, that’s still progress.
A winter arc can be motivating, but you don’t need an intense reset to become the person you want to be. Sometimes, the most sustainable changes come from giving yourself smaller goals and allowing yourself to enjoy the process.
So grab your notes app, open a cute planner, or find a fresh page in your journal and write down 10 things you want to do this month. Make the list realistic, make it fun, and make it yours. You might be surprised by how much a few small intentions can change your month.