Raise your hand if the past year has felt like a decade and a minute all at once. As parents, it always feels like a little bit of both, doesn’t it?

But whether 2023 was marked with success, challenges, bright spots or dark valleys, as the year comes to a close, we’re thinking ahead to what we want to manifest in 2024. (Ahem, perhaps a Mr. Travis Swift? If only we were so powerful.)

But forget New Year’s resolutions. That just puts another thing on your to-do list. Instead, we like to think of the entire year as an opportunity to refresh. Whether that means finally organizing the closet that’s always a disaster or establishing a daily meditation habit, making a budget (and sticking to it!) or getting time with your partner to reconnect at the end of the day, how you refresh is up to you.

You don’t need to buy a thing, but in case you want a New Year gift for yourself or a friend, we’ve shared our favorites.

Looking for more gift ideas? Check out all of our holiday gift guides!

If you need a little inspiration, here are 13 steps (and new year gifts!) to reset for the new year.

1. Write down your to-do list

Research has found that writing out your to-do list helps you to reduce your stress levels while also getting more done! So, spend some time jotting it down in a way that works for you.

Balance Bound Planner

Balance Bound

$44.95

2024 Desk Planner

We’re fans of the Balance Bound planners which are not only gorgeous, but thoughtfully laid out as well. The monthly spreads designate areas to plan for all areas of your life—work, self, others, and home—ensuring that you’re dividing your attention equally… and not burning out in the process.

 

2024 Kind & Wild Happy Planner

Happy Planner

$23

Mini Planner

If you need something a little more portable (but still prefer the analog route), the mini planners from Happy Planner are fab for keeping things organized. In addition to full month views, there are also three blocks for each day which you can divide between morning, afternoon and evening to-dos. The disc binding lets you add or remove pages and there are even matching sticker packs to help you customize.

2. Create a ritual for yourself

Can you carve out a few minutes a today to fill with a little ritual of self-care? It can be anything you want; the only rule is it needs to be more-or-less the same each day, so you can grow to rely on it.

Everlasting Candle Co. Jervis

Everlasting Candle Co.

$80

Candle Set

My ritual is ending every day with candlelight. It sounds so terribly cheesy to even type that, but it’s the truth. The soft, flickering light has become my body’s cue to relax and transition away from the stress of the day. Obviously any candle will do the trick, but I bought the Everlasting Candle a couple years ago and I’ve used it practically every night since. And unlike your standard glass jar candle, it’s just as gorgeous when it’s not lit.

Flamingo Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Flamingo

$9.99

Daily Moisturizing Lotion

If slathering on some body lotion isn’t a daily ritual already, it should be! Since I made it part of my daily routine my skin has looked so much healthier and I’ve barely had an ingrown hair to speak of. I love switching it up, but recently found the budget-friendly Flamingo Daily Moisturizing Lotion which rivals any pricey lotion I’ve ever loved. It sinks right in (no waiting to put on pants) and keeps my otherwise parched legs soft and hydrated all day long.

Motif Plumping Phytoceramide Cleanser

Motif

$65

Abundance Plumping PhotoCeramide Cleanser

Earlier this year I wrote about my love for the Motif Abundance Cleanser which is one of my top product discoveries of 2023. Yes, of course its effectiveness is a big part of why I love it, but honestly, I also simply love the ritual. The gorgeous texture, natural ingredients and subtle spa-like scent makes it such a treat to apply and because of that, my twice daily face washing has become almost a meditation. Sometimes I add in a couple face massage techniques while it sits to take it the extra mile!

3. Sleep

There is this prevailing idea in our culture that to rest is to be unproductive—and it couldn’t be further from the truth. Rest IS productive. It is healing and necessary and you deserve it. And while we know that’s often easier said than done, we do have some products that can help!

Loop Quiet

Loop

$24.95

Quiet Earplugs

Sometimes parenting can be a bit oh, let’s say… overstimulating. Finding enough peace and quiet to wind down, fall asleep and stay asleep can be a real challenge. Consider the Quiet Earplugs from Loop the mom hack you need to survive and thrive. The silicone earplugs are perfect for dampening the noise you don’t want to hear (like barking dogs at 2 am) but letting in the noise you need to hear (like crying babes at 2 am). They’re also a complete must-have for 20 hours of overnight flights, delayed take offs and grabbing a cat nap to catch up on all the sleep you didn’t get when you were supposed to–but enough about me. The signature design is super comfy and each package includes four ear tips to get just the right fit. And since they lay flat inside your ear they stay put while you sleep, too!

Nodpod

Nodpod

$34

Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask

Another one of my favorite 2023 discoveries I have to spread the love for is the Nodpod. Dubbed “the weighted blanket for your eyes,” the Nodpod is an eye mask but better. Unlike traditional styles which I generally find uncomfortable, it became my bedtime BFF from the very first time I used it and now I can’t imagine sleep without it.

The 18 inch long design features four weighted pods that rest on your eyes and temples. The ends are hollow with a button hole on one side if you want to secure it. (For side sleepers like myself, you can just rest your head on one end and slide the first two over your eyes. The remaining length will keep it in place.) It’s not super heavy, but the gentle pressure definitely helps me relax into sleep quicker than I tend to without it. The weight also helps block light, even if you choose a lighter color. I also love that it has two different fabrics, one that’s soft and cozy and one that’s cooler. You can even toss it in the freezer for an extra dose of chill or to treat a migraine. It’s basically the adult version of a lovie with function.

House of Wise Sleep Gummies

House of Wise

$49

Sleep Gummies

We admit we’re a bit smitten with the female-founded House of Wise. Not only is their hemp organically grown on USDA Organic farms in Denver, Colorado, but their products are so easy to understand and navigate. Case in point, they offer four blends: Stress, Sleep, Strength and Sex–no glossary of terms needed. And while you can’t go wrong with any of them, the Sleep formula is my favorite. For fellow mamas who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, these can feel like little squares of magic. The combination of 25mg of Full Spectrum hemp-derived CBD and 5mg of Melatonin help you unwind within a half hour or so, relaxing both body and mind. Even better, you wake up feeling rested without the grogginess of other sleep aids. Is there a better gift than that? I think not.

4. Listen to your body

Take a moment and listen to your body—really listen. Is there a specific food it’s craving? I mean beyond chocolate and Cheetos because yes, please. In our go-go-go society, we often forget to take a moment to check in with our bodies. But our bodies are so wise! Stop, listen and be amazed.

new year resolutions product guide 4
$9.79

Forks Over Knives

If your body is needing some veggies (especially after the holidays), the New York Times best-selling “Forks Over Knives book is a great place to start. The classic title is full of delicious and extremely nutrient-dense recipes, all based entirely on plants.

Green Chef tacos

Green Chef

Meal Delivery

Or if cooking is too much of a chore, you could opt to try a healthy meal kit service to make life a little easier! There are tons of food subscription boxes to choose from, but Green Chef is a great one for families since they have a ton of options that can be mixed and matched. The high-quality ingredients come prepped and measured so all you have to do is follow a few easy steps to get dinner on the table. They even come with recipe cards so if you ever want to cancel you can recreate the family favorites!

5. Move your body

Fitting in a daily workout can sound like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. After all, 2023 gave us the “Silent Walk” which is really just a universal title for something we’ve done (mostly when we’re overstimulated AF and just.need.a.break) for literal generations. We also learned this year that walking is the best exercise and there are even apps that will pay you actual money to do it. (In this economy? Yes please.)

Moving your body doesn’t require equipment or a gym membership. It doesn’t even require leaving your house. Family dance party anyone?

Related: 3 ways to upgrade boring family activities to get kids moving

p.volve p.ball

P.volve

$59.99

p.ball

If “not peeing when I sneeze” is on your list of resolutions this year, well, this body movement suggestion checks two boxes. P.volve, a workout method developed for women that combines low-impact functional training with innovative resistance-based equipment can help you get back into your body to strengthen, lengthen and even tone. The workouts are gentle but surprisingly difficult as they unlock muscles you probably never even thought of. (Also, Jennifer Aniston does it. Have you seen the woman? Sold.)

And while there are a number of P.volve tools to choose from, the p.ball is absolutely brilliant for postpartum mamas. It’s designed to be worn between the upper thighs, right up to the pubic bone, creating an instant awareness of the pelvic floor. As you move through small exercises that continuously engage everything from your abdominals to your lower body, you can begin to rebuild that connection and strength. P.volve offers both streaming and on demand classes, including pre and postnatal classes that use the p.ball. And of course you can use it any time on your own!

woman holding weights

Future

$149

Future Fitness

As someone who completely lacks the self-discipline or knowledge to create and stick to an at-home workout, I once hired a personal trainer to help get me on the right path. It was awesome for a short while before I realized I’m not that kind of person either. (Read: Someone who wants to pay someone $75 to yell at me for an hour.) Turns out, there’s a third option which solves for motivation, convenience and cost.

Future, a digital service, will pair you with your own personal trainer to build custom workouts that you can do anytime, anywhere. (You can also choose one yourself by perusing their extensive list of trainers who specialize in everything from prenatal and postpartum to bodybuilding!) They’ll send you week-by-week workout plans that fit your specific needs and track your progress along the way. They even stay in touch via text or Facetime to keep you motivated or answer any questions or concerns. It’s truly having a personal trainer in your pocket!

6. Hydrate!

According to one study, 75% of adults don’t drink enough water. Yikes! Let’s change that by making sure we get eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Not only does proper hydration help increase energy and fight fatigue, it can also help you get better sleep in the first place. It also helps improve your mood, skin, and overall health. Basically, it’s the foundation for everything, so drink up, mama!

Stanley The Quencher Flowstate Tumbler

Stanley

$45

The Quencher Flowstate Tumbler

There’s no doubt the Stanley tumbler is the trendiest cup out there these days. And even though keeping up with the latest TikTok trends might not be on your short list of things to care about, you will appreciate the function. The oversize tumblers are a great design, holding 40 oz of liquid but still fitting in a standard cup holder. Also, the cleverly constructed lid features a rotating top that lets you drink from a straw, sip from the wide-mouth opening or close it when not in use. See? Fashion and function.

DripDrop Hydration Packets

DripDrop

$35.99

Hydration Packets

If staying hydrated is a struggle and you need an extra boost, DripDrops can turn things around pretty quickly. The super portable formula is made from a patented mix of electrolytes and glucose (along with immune-system boosting ingredients like magnesium, zinc and Vitamin C) and works fast to combat dehydration. They’ve also got half the sugar of regular sports drinks and taste just as good. (Pro-tip: They’re also clutch if those nights of drinking hit harder than they used to.😉)

7. Make that appointment you’ve been putting off

Honesty time (without an ounce of judgment, promise). When was the last time you got a pap smear? How about a breast exam? And the dentist? Taking care of ourselves so often falls to the bottom of our list, but mama, do you have any idea how important you are? Commit to taking care of yourself. Find a perpetual calendar (or use your phone) and keep track of the dates when you will get your routine screening, tests, vaccines and more. (And then, remember to actually go.)

Psst: Start this resolution off with a trip to your general practitioner. Recommendations vary per person, and they can help you determine when you need to be seen.

Related: The 5 doctor appointments to make for yourself each year

8. Organize that one spot that drives you crazy

Everybody has one. The spot on the counter where mail and kid detritus goes to die. The entryway that somehow always looks like you’re hosting a rager. The hall closet that might even have a pack of diapers lurking inside even though your kid started second grade this year. You know the spot I’m talking about. The one that’s always a mess no matter what you seem to do. This year, make it a priority to fix it.

Open Spaces Entryway Rack

Open Spaces

Organization Tools

There are lots of products out there to help get the job done, but none are more attractive than Open Spaces. Their lidded storage bins, colorful entryway racks and nesting trays will help you swap clutter for style in every corner of the house.

RGI Medium Rounded Cotton Basket

TJ Maxx

Canvas Baskets

Sure, you could wander the aisles and see what the TJ Maxx Gods bestow upon you, or you peruse on your phone from the comfort of your couch. They’re a personal go-to for affordable but quality canvas baskets that hold everything from sports gear to dirty laundry (and with my kids, often both at once.)

Courant Mag:3

Courant

$160

Mag:3

If cord clutter is the bane of your existence, allow me to introduce you to the most brilliant entryway and nightstand companion around: The super stylish Mag:3 catchall from Courant. Available in leather and linen, these gorgeous charging trays provide a place to juice up your phone and AirPods while also giving all your bibs and bobs a place to land. As a bonus, you might not lose track of them as often. (But no promises.)

9. Stress less about your money

Yes, obviously easier said than done, right? But when it comes to money, knowledge is power. And you don’t have to be a math whiz or an accountant to understand what’s up. There are tools for that!

Oportun

Oportun

Oportun

My favorite? Oportun. The all-in-one budgeting, saving and investing app does the hard work for you by organizing your finances into “buckets.” Once Oportun knows about your expenses and goals, it smartly splits up your deposits for bills, savings, and long-term investments. One of my favorite features are the customized savings buckets which have solved my annual summer camp financial crisis. Instead of taking a giant hit or breaking out my credit card when registration time rolls around, I skim a couple dollars a day into my Summer Camp bucket and save it up without feeling the pinch.

10. Make time to connect

Of course, an adults-only vacation to a tropical island is ideal, but it’s 1. Not realistic and 2. Not a requirement for finding quiet time together. A night of take-out after the kids go to bed is lovely. And even if you’re completely toasted after a day of the usual madness, we’ve got some tricks to spark excitement and get some fresh energy slowing.

esther-perel-where-do-we-begin-game

Esther Perel

$40

Where Should We Begin

This fun and beautiful game designed by relationship and intimacy guru Esther Perel! Through prompt cards that set the mood and direction (ex. “Share something crazy”) and story cards that provide the first line of an answer (ex. “A phone number I need to delete…”) you’re guaranteed to learn something new and thrilling no matter how many times you’ve heard their best stories. Get ready for instant memories and enhanced connection.

Pssst. If you want to learn even more from Perel about building your own modern village and how to bring the erotic back into your life, listen to her on our podcast🔥

11. Wear sunscreen

Ok, so this one is more of a directive. Sunscreen. It’s a non-negotiable. For one thing, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. About 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to UV rays, and just five sunburns over the course of your lifetime doubles the risk of melanoma. You’ve amassed hours chasing your little ones around and slathering them with the stuff. Your skin needs it too. And if making it a habit is hard because it all feels gross and pasty, well then you just haven’t found the right stuff yet. That’s where we can help.

Related: 11 best mineral sunscreens for your whole family (that really work)

supergoop unseen sunscreen

Supergoop

$34

1. Wear sunscreen.

I’ve got one word for you. Supergoop. Not only is this my favorite sunscreen, it’s one of my top five beauty products of all time. Like desert island-levels of must-have. The silky gel formula makes an incredible make-up primer or just wear solo. Make it as much a priority as brushing your teeth. Promise? Ok.

Erborian CC Red Correct

Erborian

$46

2. CC Red Correct

If winter turns your nose into something that resembles Santa’s lead reindeer, the Erborian CC Red Correct is the sunscreen to add to your arsenal. It instantly neutralizes any redness while protecting you from harmful rays.

12. Create a meditative habit that feels right for you

For many of us, the idea of meditation can feel intimidating—even if there is no denying its many benefits. If you want to take baby steps toward creating a meditative practice, start by reframing it as an opportunity to rest and breathe. Or tap into a meditative mental space while doing a gentle yoga flow.

Sunday Citizen Crystal Meditation Pillow

Sunday Citizen

$95

Crystal Meditation Pillow

The most cozy addition to a meditation corner, Sunday Citizen’s Crystal Meditation Pillow is made from their signature cloud soft fabric and filled with buckwheat hulls and a mixture of quartz and amethyst crystals. If ever there was a place to perch yourself and manifest, this is it.

Jollie Plush Mat

Jollie

$92

Plush Mat

From their gorgeous designs to their give back mission which donates a mat to a pediatric cancer patient for each mat sold, there are a lot of reasons to love the Plush Mat from Jollie. The latex-free mats are made from ethically-sourced rubber with a microsuede top that’s perfect for everything from sweat sessions to story time.

13. Set your intentions

We all start the year off with the best of intentions. But without keeping them in view, they can easily fade to the background as more “pressing” matters come up. Center yourself as you look ahead and prepare yourself to follow through on the intentions that mean the most to you by putting them down on paper.

Poketo The Self Planner

Poketo

$28

The Self Planner

Part planner, part journal, alll inspiration. The Self Planner from Poketo is an incredible tool for making time and space for yourself and the things you’ve been wanting to do. Inside you’ll find weekly inspirational quotes, places to jot down the week’s intentions and even space to reflect on how you’re feeling. Whether you’re trying to jumpstart a new hobby, reconnect with friends or even launch the business of your dreams, this can help you on your year long journey!