January can be one of the most draining months; cold weather, early nightfall and the excitement of the new year wearing off begin to make us feel dreary and sluggish. Here are some of my favorite things that have helped revive my ambition, confidence and vitality this month.
“Satellite” – Khalid
This song is so good It’s upbeat, groovy and sounds like it could be a song of the summer. When I feel inclined to just listen to somber songs, a tune like this can be a good pick-me-up!
Happy memories jar
I wish I could take credit for this one, but I saw it in a TikTok. The basic idea is to write down happy memories as they happen throughout the year. Don’t look back through them after you put them in. When the year ends, you can open all the memories and reminisce on your happiest moments of 2023.
Glossier Balm Dotcom
I was gifted the Glossier coconut, mango and rose Balm Dotcom products for Christmas. They work so well as lip balm, but they can work for other places, too, such as cuticles and dry skin!
Crochet
I feel like I am addicted to crochet projects! I love the satisfaction I get from making something with my hands. There are tons of people who provide free, cute crochet patterns online, even ones that can be completed by beginners. It’s a great hobby to cultivate.
American Eagle boots
These boots have become a staple in my winter outfit rotation. They’re comfortable, and even better, simple and trendy at the same time.
“ceilings” by Lizzy McAlpine
I think I’m late to the party on this song, but it doesn’t change my admiration for it. It is beautifully crafted, and though I had never heard a song by Lizzy McAlpine before, this one makes me think I should try giving more of her music a listen!
Life Hacks Daily Calendar
My dad gave me a Life Hacks Daily Calendar for Christmas. Each day is presented on a tear-off sheet with a life hack listed above it. I like seeing a new tip or trick every day that I may not have known before. Plus, some of the hacks are pretty useful—I take pictures of the ones I think I will use!
Garlic potato wedges
I recently decided to try to cook more food from scratch rather than relying on pre-cooked meals and boxed foods. This recipe for garlic potato wedges is delicious, easy and perfect for busy college students who don’t want to spend all day making a meal.
DailyBean App
The DailyBean app allows me to track my moods to see how different factors affect my feelings. Users can enter meals, activities and emotions into a tracker that also includes space for photos and notes. This is great because it allows each individual to take as much or as little time as they want completing this daily recap.
“Anti-Hero” (Roosevelt Remix) – Taylor Swift
Now that “Anti-Hero” is Taylor Swift’s longest number one hit, I think it’s safe to say it’s a classic. This version is my personal favorite of the groovy, fun remixes she’s released the past few weeks.
20 minute HIIT workout videos
Braving the cold to get to the gym can seem like an insurmountable task during the winter. Home workout YouTube videos like this one are great when I want to get a workout completed in the warmth and comfort of my own home.
#CleanTok
This side of TikTok has some sort of magical power. When I need motivation to clean or organize, I watch some videos of these people who truly have it all together. It immediately makes me feel ready to clean!
Lands’ End turtleneck
I love this turtleneck! It’s a perfect basic piece and goes with almost any outfit. It’s comfy, flattering and can be dressed up or down.
OGX coconut oil spray
This OGX coconut oil spray is perfect for those of us with curls. It helps hydrate my hair when it needs refreshing, especially during the dry winter months.
Making a list of favorites for each month is a great way to practice gratitude! Taking stock of the things I like never fails to shift my perspective on things. Next time you feel bogged down by the cold or darkness outside, make a list of your own favorites!