The start of a new year often sparks hopes of becoming the best version of ourselves. With fresh enthusiasm, we tend to compile ambitious to-do lists while dreaming of what we want to achieve. However, that initial burst of energy can fade quickly as we dive back into the daily routine of managing school runs or tackling overflowing inboxes.
So instead of piling on more tasks, why not consider removing some from your list?
Daily tasks
1. Professional organizer Susan C Pinsky suggests that you really don’t need to fold every piece of clothing. Having a drawer full of assorted underwear can be just fine. For a bonus, if you minimize your sock collection to just two styles with several pairs of each, you can avoid the hassle of sorting and matching altogether.
2. Productivity expert Moyra Scott advises to cut back on emails. The more you send, the more you’ll receive in return, so only reply when absolutely necessary.
3. Another reason to stay out of your inbox? Organizational psychologist Dr. Amantha Imber points out that this kind of “shallow work,” which includes messaging through platforms like Slack or Teams, can drain your energy better reserved for larger tasks.
4. Consider skipping that multivitamin, says Sydney GP Dr. Jason Yu. He believes that they’re often backed by little scientific evidence and simply popping a pill won’t fix poor lifestyle choices.
5. Fashion editor Zara Wong advises that you don’t need complicated outfits to look chic. The easiest way to appear well-dressed is to opt for a monochromatic look. It’s striking and simplifies getting dressed.
6. Dermatologist Prof. Deshan Sebaratnam recommends you focus on sunscreen instead of moisturizer. Most people don’t need daily moisturizer unless dealing with specific skin issues like eczema, and many sunscreens already offer moisturizing benefits.
7. You should only need one or two effective products with active ingredients to address your skin concerns, according to Michelle Wong, a science communicator with a background in medicinal chemistry.
8. Put your phone down and stop obsessively checking your investments, suggests superannuation expert Marco Mellado. Prices can fluctuate wildly without any apparent reason. A solid long-term plan makes those daily ups and downs irrelevant.
9. In cooking traditional South Asian dishes, people often overuse spices. Culinary creator Nipun Liyanapathirana suggests that using fewer spices in the right amounts can enhance flavors more effectively.
10. And remember, there’s no need to feel pressure about your dinners. Mindy Woods, a Bundjalung restaurateur, notes that many cultures cook to simply nourish and sustain rather than to impress. If repeating a meal works for you and your family, that’s quite commendable.
11. If your room is perpetually messy, don’t set impossible expectations like putting clothes away daily, says Guardian reporter Matilda Boseley. Instead, consider designating a “clothes chair” or a “clean clothes” basket. It’s okay to embrace a bit of mess – just make sure it has a designated spot.
Getting through the week
12. Many parents try too hard to smooth out every bump for their kids, says teacher Alice Peel. But allowing children to solve their own problems helps them grow more resilient.
13. Let your garden thrive on its own as well. Nursery manager Thea Kerr advises to avoid unnecessary pesticides and insecticides, which disturb the garden’s ecosystem; natural predators can manage aphid populations.
14. Embrace gentle movement during recovery from hard workouts. Associate professor Bruno Saragiotto claims that pushing through soreness can hinder recovery rather than help it.
15. Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated. Dr. Kim Way, an exercise physiologist, recommends sticking to simple activities that you enjoy and feel capable doing.
16. If you find cool-downs tedious, feel free to skip them, says trainer Shona Vertue. Research shows that active cool-downs don’t really affect muscle soreness or injury prevention post-weight training. But if it’s something you enjoy, continue doing it!
17. Do you finish the week with sore feet? According to podiatrist Charbel Dagher, your shoes aren’t necessarily the issue. Many tend to rely too much on cushioned footwear or insoles. Tackling the root causes of foot pain will offer longer-lasting solutions.
18. Simplify your grocery shopping. Jo Barrett, chef at Discovered Foods, believes that delicious meals don’t require tons of ingredients; often, fewer ingredients lead to more memorable dishes.
19. Rather than spending on store-bought probiotics, focus on nurturing your gut flora through a diet rich in minimally processed, plant-based foods, says Prof. Emad El-Omar, a gastroenterologist.
20. Avoid overloading your laundry with commercial stain removers, suggests cleaning expert Shannon Lush. Not every product works on every stain. Understanding the cause of a stain can better guide your approach, and often, you might already have what you need at home, like bicarb soda or vinegar.
21. Try not to schedule intimate moments like they’re chores, says Georgia Grace, a sex and relationship practitioner. This can add unnecessary pressure and make it feel more performative. Instead, set aside time for genuine physical or emotional connection without the expectation of sex.
Enjoying yourself
22. Forget about fancy gadgets for coffee. Jibbi Little, a coffee expert, emphasizes that all you need for a good cup is high-quality beans.
23. It’s okay to not force yourself to finish a piece of art you dislike. Culture editor Steph Harmon advises discontinuing a book or movie that doesn’t captivate you. There’s an abundance of great culture out there, so don’t hesitate to move on.
24. You don’t have to stay for the entire duration of a party, says journalist and former sociophobe Jenny Valentish. It’s perfectly fine to have a defined timeframe where you can enjoy quality interactions before leaving.
25. Refrain from comparing your sex life to others. Focus on what works for you and your partner, suggests clinical sexologist Naomi Hutchings.
26. During intimate moments, let go of concerns about what your partner might think of your body. Focus instead on how you’re feeling physically to enhance your experience and enjoyment, recommends therapist Kassandra Mourikis.
27. For planning gatherings with friends or family, simplify the process by using a scheduling tool like when2meet, which helps everyone choose times that work for them, advises Isabella Lee.
28. When traveling, don’t stress about seeing everything. Intrepid Travel’s Brett Mitchell suggests exploring fewer but more unique places. Less rushing often means richer experiences.
29. Consider giving yourself a “grace day” when returning from a trip, says lifestyle editor Alyx Gorman. Taking a day for sleep, unpacking, and grocery shopping helps make your transition smoother and preserves that holiday feeling.
30. You don’t need to splurge to enjoy good wine, says sommelier Samantha Payne. Quality cask wine has significantly improved, meaning you can have a good glass without opening a full bottle.
31. Interior designer Emma Blomfield suggests that, like Coco Chanel said about accessorizing, when arranging your home, aim for simplicity. Keeping three or four decorative items on display will help minimize clutter and dust.
32. Kids don’t require extravagant birthday celebrations or gifts. Sometimes, a simple park gathering with cake suffices, states deputy lifestyle editor Yvonne C Lam. If you choose to host a party, consider a “fiver” party where guests contribute a small amount towards something your child prefers.
33. When looking to expand your social circle, remember that deep friendships aren’t necessary. Small interactions, like a friendly hello at the bus stop, can alleviate feelings of loneliness, points out Associate Professor Michelle Lim.
34. Don’t worry about dressing for your age or what others think, says fashion sustainability adviser Camille Reed. Just wear what makes you happy. Bright colors and personal style choices are meant for you!
When things go wrong
35. Avoid feeding your pet before a vet visit, suggests Anne Quain, an expert in veterinary science. It’s already a stressful situation, and a full stomach can complicate matters.
36. If you find yourself job hunting, resist the urge to simply apply to every opening. Career coach Ellen Hooper suggests utilizing your network and former contacts to discover opportunities more effectively.
37. For those struggling with money anxieties, take caution with influencer tips or get-rich-quick schemes, warns Zee Heart. Unfollow influencers and focus on grounded, realistic approaches.
38. When facing challenges, set aside dieting, advises KC Davis. During stressful times, prioritize getting enough calories over striving for perfectly balanced meals.
39. Don’t shy away from conflict; sometimes, a bit of it is necessary. Clinical psychotherapist Marryam Chehelnabi recommends addressing grievances as they arise, rather than struggling to keep the peace.
40. You don’t need to fill uncomfortable silences to support someone grieving, say Sally Douglas and Imogen Carn of the Good Mourning podcast. Just being there and listening can be incredibly powerful.
Planning for the future
41. If you’re considering renovations, remember to think about your home’s orientation, advises Anthony Burke. Utilizing natural light for heating and cooling can save on long-term costs.
42. Avoid designing your home purely for future resale. Interior designer David Flack warns that many homes go for forgettable, on-trend designs. Instead, focus on creating a space that reflects your life.
43. Don’t get too caught up in self-optimization. Clinical psychologist Zac Seidler believes that attempting to “hack” your body often adds unnecessary anxiety. Sometimes, it’s okay to just be.
44. If you’re decluttering, bear in mind that you don’t have to keep items out of obligation. Professional organizer Catherine Carney encourages letting go of things you no longer use or want, no guilt attached.
45. Don’t stress about planning your career in fine detail. According to career counselor Lois Keay-Smith, flexibility and adaptability are key in today’s job market.
46. Many metrics often utilized in parenting are best ignored, says Dr. Fiona Longmuir. Instead of focusing solely on academic performance, aim to nurture well-rounded individuals.
When you need a reality check
47. Dr. Orna Guralnik suggests that you shouldn’t place the burden of your emotions on your partner. Each person should take responsibility for their feelings.
48. Steer clear of living your life to be posted online. As Maggie Kelly and Tully Smyth from the Self Help(ed) podcast advise, our worries should be about genuine experiences rather than digital perceptions.
49. Parents often expend too much effort managing their kids’ behavior, says parenting educator Lael Stone. Children absorb more from our actions than our words.
50. Challenge ageist beliefs, recommends Dr. Catherine Barrett. Recognizing the value of older individuals can significantly enhance your interactions with them.
51. Try not to be distracted by what those around you are doing. Author Brigid Delaney emphasizes that focusing on your actions and responses is far more impactful than others’ behaviors.
52. Finally, if you find yourself saying yes too often, just stop, as Helena Nguyen suggests. Each “yes” can chip away at your energy; take care of your own emotional well-being first.
