January Jumpstart

& a commitment to consistency

Last year I abided by an ‘only write when inspiration strikes’ principle. Titles for Substack posts would appear in my mind as they pleased, nothing ever planned. I prefer it this way, to type out the mental monologue in a singular, energised sitting. But with an influx of inspired feedback, I feel driven to lean into (or rather force myself into) some sort of consistent writing schedule. The New Year presents the perfect opportunity to do so.

The date is January 7th, exactly one week of resolution territory. Whilst I have abandoned such an activity, I still, like everyone else, seize the time to renew, refresh and feel my very best. So to share my thoughts on January so far, what’s working for me, what’s not, and what I’m aiming for more of. The 26 list for 2026 below:

1. If you don’t yet own an alarm clock, the time is now. ‘It really is that damn phone’, and the further you find it out of your bedroom, the better your day is set to start. For my birthday I asked for a loftie clock. Chic, sleek and a guaranteed way to achieve better sleep.

2. There’s a recent tragedy that took place in the world that I can’t seem to shift from my mind. It is a humble reinforcement of the fragility of life, and crucially, a reminder to tell the people closest to me just how much I love them, way more often.

3. To be loved is to be seen, understood and also, remembered. A simple ‘this reminded me of you/ made me think of you’ can make an individual’s day far more than you might think. Last week my friend sent me a photo of the moon; the other night at dinner someone told me they think of me when they wear Massimo Dutti. On both occasions, I was smiling from ear to ear.

4. A straightforward supplement routine will serve you best. I started taking Ashwagandha last September. Magnesium Citrate, Glycinate, Omega 3, and Vitamin D when my levels are running low.

5. I truly believe your space serves as a reflection of your mind. Clear out the clutter.

6. It’s been a year since my fast fashion ban, a ban I’m happily bringing forth into 2026. A smaller wardrobe with power pieces is far superior to ‘a closet full of clothes with nothing to wear’.

7. My best friend taught me the importance of having nice nails. Having nice nails makes me feel a whole lot better about myself.

8. You don’t need an extended gym routine, an Equinox membership or to kiss carbs goodbye to reach your fitness goals. Pick something, anything, and do it consistently. Reformer pilates takes the top spot for me; breath-work, discipline and strength simultaneously delivered over one strenuous hour of exercise .

9. Thank you letters. Because manners maketh man, and woman.

10. I thought I knew the Circles album back to front. Apparently I do not. Right now it’s all about Right, because no artist makes me feel more at ease than Mac.

11. Wake up, chug water, chug some more water, and notice how your sense of mental clarity increases.

12. Trust that your friends have your best interests at heart. So often they can see situations for what they really are, instead of what your own fantasy tells you.

13. That being said, it’s also human to ignore the advice of those around you. Sometimes we have to live an experience to the best of our ability, before we learn the lesson of otherwise.

14. Giving myself enough time to get to where I need to go. Last year my lateness was so bad, friends began giving me fake reservation times. I will make a conscious effort to turn up on time in 2026. Or even earlier… ‘on time is late’, as my brother likes to remind me.

15. There are many health trends that are full of shite. Bone broth is not one of them. My all-time favourite is, unfortunately for me, located in Austin, Texas. So until I have the chance to return, this one will have to tie me over.

16. The greatest skincare product is the produce you consume. This brand comes in close second place.

17. Someone once asked me at a dinner party why I eat in slow-motion. Eating slowly is the best thing I have every done for my digestive health.

18. If you’re in need of a new LBD for the new year, I have my sights set firmly on her.

19. My advertising management professor once mentioned something during a lecture that stuck with me forever: ‘If you try to be everything to everyone, you end up being nothing to no one.’ People-pleasing tendencies will only tire you out.

20. Parmesan is the most efficient protein bar, take a pass on the ultra-processed. Though I always take great enjoyment in testing new Barebell flavours.

21. I have a sunglasses obsession. The one item it might be possible to never have enough of. I’m currently eyeing these… but to avoid bankrupting myself before the year even starts, I’m thankful for dupes. This shape is long overdue in my collection too.

22. Bowling is an underrated activity. So is Ping-Pong (I predict a resurgence on the horizon thanks to Marty Supreme). I wish to engage in more of both this year.

23. ‘A clarity that hurts you is better than a hopeful confusion that holds you’- I will quietly keep repeating to myself.

24. More nights out in Madrid. I plan to move back and act like it’s the first time I’ve ever lived there.

25. I will continue collecting matchboxes everywhere I go.

26. ‘If you can keep your head when all about you/ Are losing theirs and blaming it on you’, or for a more modern day motto: ‘It’s not that deep’.