Ring in the New Year with a Refresh

The new year is an inspiring time, with a sense of excitement abuzz in the air. With this invigorating energy often comes a desire to refresh and reset.

Now is a great time to look at things from a different perspective and create some intentional change! You don’t have to overhaul your entire routine with resolutions and goals, especially if that brings up more feelings of dread than joy.

Instead, intentionally bringing mindful changes to different areas of your life can help you step out of that mid-winter rut and bring some positivity to your day!

From small shifts in your daily routine to transformative projects, there are many ways to bring something fresh into your life this new year.

 

Update Your Wardrobe

Clothing can reflect how we feel, and at the same time, how we dress can affect how we move through the day.

Freshening up your wardrobe with even a few select items can lighten your mood and bring a bit of joy in the mornings when you get dressed.

Adding a couple of timeless pieces that complement what you already have can give you nearly endless options!

Selecting even just one or two new items that pair with some existing favorites goes a long way if you’ve been feeling uninspired when choosing an outfit.

If you’re not sure where to begin, consider styling services at a local destination.

This is a great option if you want to try something new and discover items that suit your unique sense of style.

For those who want to experiment with the latest trends, search for new styles that align with your tastes and that you’ll continue to reach for.

This helps you select pieces that feel authentic to you, while still giving that exciting feeling of “new.”

Don’t feel like you have to empty your closet and start from scratch.

Instead, take a moment to think if there are any gaps you’d like to fill, or what you feel like you might be missing.

This also ensures you’ll be excited to reach for the new items you add to your closet.

Refresh Your Home With a Project

 

While spring is often thought of as a time for cleaning and organizing the home, the new year is also a great time to start on some home improvement projects!

Considering how much time we spend indoors during Carmel’s rainy season, it’s important to love the space you’re living in.

Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, swapping out the handles on your cabinets, or rethinking your window coverings, there’s no shortage of updates that can bring some new life into your space.

If you’re in the mood to tackle a major renovation, take advantage of this season to brainstorm projects like adding a cozy fireplace, revamping your kitchen, or transforming that spare room into the hobby space you’ve been dreaming of!

 

Swap Out Some Decor

 

If you want to reimagine some of the spaces in your home but don’t want to worry about any bigger projects, swapping out decor is an easy option that still has a noticeable impact.

For example, adding throw pillows to your couch, changing your curtains, or incorporating a new lamp are all simple home decor shifts that can completely change the feel of your space.

Selecting a few fresh bouquets to sprinkle around the house can also help bring in the peaceful calm of nature.

Consistently updating your bouquets is also an easy way to keep your home in step with each season. 

For the most noticeable refresh, focus on the spaces where you spend the most time, whether it’s the living room, bedroom, kitchen, home office, or another space.

Focusing on the areas you are in the most will make home decor changes feel more manageable, and you’ll instantly feel the difference with the spark of joy that comes every time you enter your newly-decorated room. 

 

Explore a New Restaurant or Cuisine

 

Many of us fall into the routine of going to the same restaurants. There’s nothing wrong with returning to familiar favorites!

However, there’s a special thrill that comes with stumbling across a new favorite spot or branching out to try a new dish.

Next time you dine out, challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone and discover a new spot or a dish you’ve yet to enjoy.

For those looking to explore local destinations, excellent restaurants can be found at The Crossroads, from BBQ to Asian cuisine and more.

If you’re really feeling adventurous, get your foodie friends together and try a bison burger!

Whether you take yourself out for lunch, enjoy a dinner date night, or meet a friend for an afternoon snack, don’t be afraid to try a new restaurant or dish.

Who knows? You might just find another go-to!

Bold flavors and comfort meals await at China Delight and R.G. Burgers.

Try a New Hairstyle

 

That fresh-out-of-the-salon feeling can do wonders for our self-confidence.

Having fun with a new haircut, trying a different color, or adding dimension with a few layers or highlights are a few of the many ways that you can refresh your look and show yourself some love!

If you don’t want to drastically change your hairstyle, even getting a trim to freshen up your ends or treating yourself to a deep conditioning treatment can give you that much-needed refresh.

While you’re at it, treat your favorite furry friend to a trim or shape-up and give them a new look, too!

Step Into the New Year With Carmel Favorites

 

It’s easy to sink into the rituals of daily life. Especially in the winter months, things can begin to feel mundane.

A few mindful shifts (small or large!) at the beginning of the year can feel like setting down unnecessary weight, allowing you to step into the year lighter and more energized.

Discover everything Carmel has to offer at The Crossroads, from clothing and home decor destinations to restaurants, salons, and more, and let yourself fall in love with something new this new year!