It’s the start of a new month and you’re ready for a fresh beginning. After all, new year, new you doesn’t just have to be a thing in January, right? So right.
There’s nothing like breaking in the start of a new month by doing a few things that’ll leave you feeling organized, energized, and good to go for the remainder of that month.
From setting new goals, to getting your finances in check, and pampering yourself with a little self love, keep reading for 5 life-changing things you should do at the start of a new month!
1. Set goals at the start of a new month
You may have set some hefty new goals at the beginning of the year, but how have you been keeping up? Setting goals at the start of a new month is a great way to keep you accountable for your bigger and more audacious goals.
Set some time at the beginning of each month to reflect on how the previous month went.
- What did you like about last month?
- Were there any things you didn’t you like?
- What were you hoping to accomplish?
- Did you accomplish it? Why or why not?
- What do you want to do differently looking at the month ahead?
- Do you have any bucket-list things you want to do this month?
Reflect, brainstorm, and set some key goals you want to accomplish for the month ahead. Write them down, and come back to visit them at the beginning of the following month.
2. Plan ahead
They say if you fail to plan, you plan to fail, which just might be accurate in some cases. At the start of a new month, be sure to take some time to look ahead to what the upcoming month entails.
- Whose birthdays are coming up this month?
- What social events / commitments do you have coming up?
- Are you travelling or away from home any of the days?
- Is there anything you need to make sure you plan ahead for?
It’s unlikely you’ll know every detail of what you’re doing for the month ahead, but being aware of what big events and dates you’ve already committed to will help you organize your time, and of course help slay those goals you set for the month.
3. Manage your finances
So, you’ve set some goals and have taken a look ahead. What’s next? Time to manage those funds!
To make those smart #moneymoves, managing and checking your finances on a frequent basis is a total must. At a minimum, once a month. Use this time to pay down any bills or credit card payments you have to make. How much money will you be making this month? Do you have a set salary? Are you expecting a bonus to come in? Or perhaps it’s tax season, and you’re expecting your much anticipated tax refund to come in. (Which if you are, by the way, be sure to check out this article on 3 ways you should be spending your tax refund this year!)
Then, take some time to project how much you’ll be spending in the month ahead, and set a budget accordingly. Just like you set goals, setting a budget is key to managing your finances. At the start of a new month, set an amount that you’re expecting to spend, and break it down by category. For example:
- Entertainment = $100.00
- Groceries = $300.00
- Cable and Bills = $100.00
- Rent = $1000.00
Some of these expenses will be fixed (i.e. rent and cable), but some of these are variable, so they’ll change month-to-month. It’s key to set a budget for these variable expenses (i.e. entertainment), and see if you can stick to it. Re-assess you financial situation at the beginning of the next month to see where you stack up.
4. Do a deep clean
Next, kick-off the start of a new month with a deep clean — your future self will thank you. Aside from your regular maintenance, scheduling in a once-a-month deep clean can help keep your place organized, clean, and clutter-free. Whether you’re looking to Marie Kondo your place, or just get into a rhythm of spring cleaning, make a list of some of the key things you’ll do as part of your monthly deep clean. That might just include…
- Laundry
- Floors – sweep, vacuum, mop
- Countertops
- Bathroom
- Garbages
- Mirrors
- Fridge
- etc.
Getting into a cadence of a regular deep clean (especially your fridge – everyone always forgets the fridge!) cleans up and organizes your physical space, which we can all agree helps clear up your mental space, too.
5. Do a face mask
So, you’ve set some goals, done some reflecting, managed your finances, and have done a stellar deep clean. Next up: time to pamper yourself!
A little self care can go a long way, so be sure to prioritize this on your “New Month To Do List”. Doing a face mask is a perfect way to unwind, relax, and reset yourself for the month ahead. Not to mention, doing a face mask on the regular is great for your skin, but seldom do we find the time. Pencil in a face mask and throw on your fav Netflix show to give yourself a little TLC!
Also, if you’re looking for some easy DIY face masks you can make at home, check out this article on 4 DIY face masks for glowing skin! And, if you’re REALLY feeling up for it, why not give yourself a spa-level DIY facial at home?
The start of a new month is an exciting time to rejuvenate and set yourself up for success for the month ahead. So, try out these 5 hacks to have an amazing start to a new month. And, let us know in the comments what else you do at the start of a new month!
