Reimagining January: Reflection, Creativity, and the Messy Middle

Happy New Year — and welcome to the very first episode of Don't Cut Your Own Bangs in 2026.

If you're feeling a little tender, tired, hopeful, unsure, or all of the above… you're in exactly the right place.

This episode is not about reinvention. It's about reflection and reimagining.

In this solo conversation, I'm sharing why I believe the beginning of a new year isn't meant for pressure, perfection, or becoming a brand-new person overnight. Instead, it's a powerful opportunity to pause, look back with honesty, and gently reimagine what you want more of — and less of — as the year unfolds.

I reflect on the journey of this podcast, the role creativity has played in my life (from ballroom dance to therapy to children's books), and why making things for joy — not productivity — has been one of the most grounding decisions I've ever made.

We also talk about:

• vulnerability and creativity

• anxiety and burnout

• why "do I need bangs or do I need to talk about my feelings?" is actually a very real question

• and how slowing down can literally change your experience of time (hello, Andromeda Paradox ✨)

This episode is an invitation — to breathe, to soften, to stop attacking your goals, and instead commit to what matters.

No resolutions required.

Key Takeaways

• Why January is better for reflection than reinvention

• How creativity can calm anxiety and clarify decision-making

• The real meaning behind "Don't Cut Your Own Bangs"

• Why we're not as alone as we think (and why that matters)

• How slowing down can change your experience of time and overwhelm

Quotes to Remember

"You don't need to start from scratch. You're allowed to carry yourself forward."

"If it isn't joy, it isn't right."

"We are not unique in the things we fear — and thank God for that."

A Note Before You Go

If this episode made you feel a little more grounded, a little less alone, or helped you exhale — please rate, review, and subscribe. It's how this podcast continues to grow and reach people who need it.

And if a friend popped into your mind while listening, share it with them. The best things in life are shared.

You can email me questions for the podcast at [email protected] - subject line (Bangs).