6 tips to help you plan the year ahead:
- be realistic
- get support
- be part of a team
- don't be too hard on yourself
- chart your achievements
- reward yourself.
feels good to
speak up
New Year
The start of the year is a time when you might look back at the past year and reflect on things that’ve happened, both good and bad. Whether you’re feeling down at this time, or planning new goals, it can really help to talk.
On this Page
Feeling down in January
In the New Year, when the Christmas holidays have finished, it's normal for some young people to feel a bit sad or down. It’s often called the January blues. But if you begin to feel like your sad thoughts and feelings are stopping you from being happy, it might help to speak to someone who’ll listen to you.
You can speak to Childline at any time by calling 0800 1111 for free. We’re here to support you throughout Christmas and New Year. You can also share your thoughts and get support from other young people on our message boards.
New Year's resolutions
New Year's resolutions are when you decide to make some changes at the start of the new year. Usually, these are changes you hope will improve your life or someone else's life. Some examples include:
- staying healthy
- reading a new book
- learning to play an instrument
- joining a sports club
- helping someone with their chores
- learning a new language
- taking their dog for a walk
- being kinder to classmates.
You could decide to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Or something you’ve never done before. You could also decide to give up doing something that you feel isn’t good for you, like smoking, drinking alcohol or swearing.
The start of a new year can be a good time to make changes. But it can sometimes put a lot of pressure on you to succeed. If you do want to make a change and find it hard, don’t be down on yourself. You can make changes at any time of the year. The best time to make a change is when it’s a good time for you.
If you'd like to chat with others about the New Year, or how you’re feeling during this time, visit our New Year message board.
Planning the year ahead
What you can do
You can talk to other young people who’re also feeling the January blues. Or support each other’s resolutions. Every year, you’ll find a message board thread especially for Christmas and New Year.
And remember, if you need to talk, you can always use our 1-2-1 counsellor chat or call 0800 1111 for free.
