January often comes with pressure to set big business goals, start new routines, and feel motivated — but for many of us, the deepest, coldest part of the year is better suited to rest and gentle beginnings. In this episode, I share why I don’t set business goals in January, and how I approach the start of the year more slowly — noticing what’s unfinished from last year, reflecting on how I want the year to feel, and how choosing a word to guide me can be surprisingly powerful.

Key takeaways from this episode

1. Why January can be the hardest month to set goals — and why that’s perfectly normal
2. How to embrace observation over action in the darkest part of the year
3. A gentler way to start the year: tying up loose ends and noticing what’s stirring
4. Why choosing a single word for the year can be more supportive than a list of goals
5. Practical prompts for reflection and beginning the year at your own pace

Links and resources mentioned in this episode

1. Download your Winter Planning Guide — for reflection prompts, seasonal inspiration, and gentle ideas to tend to your energy through the quietest part of the year.

Thanks for listening today, I hope you enjoyed this episode! I’d love to hear your thoughts, so come and say hello on Instagram or Threads (@sarahandmaude).

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