January Check-In: Are Your Goals Thriving or Just Surviving?

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Here’s the deal: enthusiasm has an expiration date. Psychologists call it the “fresh start effect”—we love a clean slate, but sustaining that momentum? Different story. By week four, the novelty wears off, real life takes over, and suddenly, binge-watching Netflix feels way more appealing than hitting your goals.

The good news? This is normal.

The better news? You can totally hack it.

Ready to dust off those resolutions? Here’s a quick playbook:

Take five minutes to jot down what’s working and what’s not. Are there habits that feel effortless? Celebrate them. Goals that feel like a chore? Time to pivot. (Spoiler: it’s okay to adjust your goals.)

🎯 Why It Works: Reflection helps you identify patterns and adjust your focus. By celebrating wins and pivoting where needed, you create a roadmap that feels doable rather than daunting.

Big goals can be overwhelming. Swap “Run a marathon” with “Run 3 miles this week.” Smaller wins are easier to achieve—and just as satisfying.

🎯 Why It Works: Small, actionable steps give you quick wins and build momentum. When progress feels manageable, you’re more likely to stick with it.

If your goal feels like a grind, sprinkle in some joy. Hate cardio? Try dance workouts. Over meal prep? Experiment with a new recipe that doesn’t feel like chicken breast purgatory.

🎯 Why It Works: Enjoyment boosts motivation and turns tasks into treats. When you associate your goals with fun, they stop feeling like chores and start feeling like rewards.

The “why” behind your goal is your North Star. Maybe it’s better energy, more confidence, or proving to yourself you can follow through. Write it down and stick it somewhere you’ll see it daily.

🎯 Why It Works: Your "why" provides emotional fuel and keeps you grounded. When you’re connected to the deeper purpose behind your goal, staying on track becomes easier.

Feeling stuck? Give yourself a one-week challenge to spark momentum. Examples: Drink a glass of water before coffee every morning or stretch for 5 minutes before bed.

🎯 Why It Works: Micro-challenges are low-pressure ways to create momentum. They’re quick wins that build confidence and inspire you to take on bigger challenges.

January has been all about juggling two big goals for me—Root + Renew’s rebrand and my half marathon training for three upcoming halves. Let me tell you, it’s been… a ride.

For the rebrand, it’s been exciting but also a little overwhelming. Shifting Root + Renew to appeal to the Spanish market while keeping its international charm has meant countless brainstorming sessions, design tweaks, and deep dives into skincare trends. Progress has been steady, and I’m thrilled with the direction we’re heading—but I’ve also learned that patience and flexibility are key when you’re building something meaningful. It’s also been fun learning more about our male audience and their skincare routine habits through our survey.

As for my half marathon training, it started strong, but I hit a snag when I got sick at the start of the month and most recently again with the flu and had to take a week off. Missing those runs has felt frustrating, but it was a reminder to listen to my body and not push too hard. I’m hoping to be back at it t, easing in with shorter runs and focusing on consistency rather than perfection.

The lesson? Progress isn’t always linear, and that’s okay.

Now it’s over to you! How’s your January going? Are your goals thriving, surviving, or somewhere in between?

Here are a few questions to get you reflecting:

Drop your reflections and micro-goals in the comments on Threads, or reply directly to this email. I’d love to hear how you’re doing and cheer you on!

Stay thriving,

Valerie

P.S. Your dogged determination in January? Totally worthy of a high-five. Go you.