32 Best Things to Do in December to Prepare for the New Year
Let’s Get Started With Your December Bucket List
It’s time to talk about the best things to do in December. Ah, December. The last month of the year, when the air is cool, the holidays are here, and it’s the perfect time to look back, rest, and get ready for the future.
This month is all about finding balance—enjoying the season while also taking time to relax and plan ahead. Whether it’s pausing to think about what we’ve done this year or getting ready for the new one, December is a great time to refresh in many ways.
I’ve put together a list of things you can do this month that will help you end the year feeling calm, proud, and ready for whatever the new year brings. Let’s explore these activities that will add warmth, purpose, and a little magic to your December.
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1. Set New Goals for the Upcoming Year
I love kicking off December by thinking about what I want to achieve in the next year. It’s the perfect time to set some fresh, exciting goals.
Setting goals helps me stay focused and motivated. I usually take a quiet evening to really think about where I want to grow and what I want to focus on—kind of like setting the tone for the next chapter.
2. Review and Reflect on the Past Year’s Achievements and Lessons
At the end of each year, I love taking a step back to look at everything I’ve done and learned. It’s so easy to get caught up in what we didn’t accomplish, but reviewing my wins (big or small) really helps me appreciate my progress.
I also think about the lessons I’ve learned from the challenges. This reflection gives me clarity and helps me carry those lessons into the new year with confidence.
3. Start a Gratitude Journal to End the Year With Positivity
I’ve found that starting a gratitude journal in December really helps me end the year on a positive note. I write down little things that made me smile each day—whether it’s a warm cup of coffee or a beautiful sunset.
It’s a simple way to shift my focus to the good stuff and feel thankful for all the moments that made the year special, even the small ones.
4. Organize Your Home for a Fresh Start in the New Year
There’s something about the idea of decluttering and organizing my space before the new year that feels so refreshing. I like to go through each room, get rid of things that no longer serve me, and make everything feel cozy and clean.
It’s like giving my home a fresh start—making it the perfect space to recharge and reflect in.
5. Declutter Your Wardrobe, Donate Items You No Longer Wear
In December, I always take some time to go through my closet and donate clothes I don’t wear anymore. It feels so good to clear out the pieces that no longer bring me joy, and I love knowing they’ll go to someone who’ll appreciate them.
Besides, it makes room for new pieces I might need in the new year.
6. Establish a Winter Skincare Routine
As soon as the temperature drops, I switch up my skincare routine to keep my skin feeling hydrated and cozy. I start using richer moisturizers and make sure I’m taking extra care of my skin with hydrating masks.
It’s all about keeping that glow through the cold months and giving my skin the love it deserves.
7. Create a Cozy Space in Your Home for Relaxation
When it gets chilly outside, I’m all about creating a cozy space at home to unwind. I grab my favorite blankets, light a few candles, and make it my perfect spot to relax after a busy day.
Whether it’s reading a book, watching a holiday movie, or just having a quiet moment, having a space to recharge is essential in December.
You might also like: 34 Useful Tasks to Tackle in November to Prep for Winter8. Take a Long Walk in Nature to Enjoy the Winter Air
I love bundling up and taking a walk outside to breathe in the fresh winter air. It’s so calming to be surrounded by nature, especially when everything feels quiet and still.
It also gives me a moment to reflect on the year and appreciate the simple things—nature really has a way of helping me feel grounded.
9. Schedule a Self-Care Day With a Relaxing Bath, Face Mask, and Meditation
December can get hectic, so I make sure to schedule a self-care day to truly unwind. A warm bath with my favorite scents, a hydrating face mask, and a good meditation session help me recharge.
It’s the perfect way to give myself the rest I need before jumping into the busy holiday season.
10. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation Every Day
I’ve found that practicing mindfulness or meditation every day helps me stay centered, especially with the holiday buzz. Even just a few minutes of sitting quietly, focusing on my breath, or being present can make a huge difference in how I feel.
It’s a great way to calm my mind and stay balanced throughout the month. This is honestly among my favorite things to do in December.
11. Prepare a Nutritious, Seasonal Meal Plan
I love taking the time to plan out healthy meals for the week using seasonal ingredients. It makes cooking feel exciting, and it’s also a great way to enjoy all the fresh, nourishing foods winter has to offer.
Besides, meal prepping helps me stay on track with healthy eating during the busy holiday season.
12. Try a New Winter Recipe or Bake Holiday Treats
December is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen. I try a new winter recipe every year, whether it’s a savory dish or a cozy dessert.
Of course, I always bake a few holiday treats too—baking really gets me into the festive spirit and fills my house with delicious smells.
13. Invest in a New Winter Coat or Accessories to Stay Warm
I love picking up a new winter coat or cozy accessories in December. It’s a nice way to treat myself while staying warm. It’s always fun to update my wardrobe for the colder months, especially when it means wearing something snuggly and stylish.
14. Organize Your Digital Files and Declutter Your Devices
When it comes to digital decluttering, December is my go-to month for cleaning up my devices. I go through photos, delete unnecessary files, and organize everything.
It feels good to get everything in order before the new year—and it’s so much easier to find what I need!
You might also like: 35 Cozy Activities to Enjoy in October and Fully Embrace Fall15. Clean and Organize Your Email Inbox
I’ll admit, my email inbox gets a little out of hand sometimes! So, in December, I take some time to clean it up. I unsubscribe from things I don’t need and delete old emails. It’s like clearing out digital clutter and setting myself up for a fresh start.
16. Review Your Finances and Make a Budget for the New Year
Looking at my finances before the new year helps me stay on track. I review my spending habits, check my savings, and create a budget for the year ahead.
It’s a great way to set myself up for financial success and avoid the stress of last-minute spending around the holidays.
17. Set Up an Automated Savings Plan for the New Year
I love setting up an automated savings plan in December. It’s an easy way to make sure I’m saving consistently in the new year without thinking about it. Even small amounts add up over time, and I know I’ll feel more financially secure as the year goes on.
18. Take Time to Read Personal Growth or Self-Improvement Books
In December, I make it a point to pick up a personal growth or self-improvement book. I love ending the year with a bit of inspiration and knowledge. It’s a wonderful way to stay focused on learning and growing, even as the year wraps up.
19. Practice Saying “No” to Things That Drain Your Energy
December is a great time to practice saying “no” to anything that doesn’t serve me. With the busy holiday season, it can be easy to say yes to everything, but I’ve learned that protecting my energy is so important.
It’s all about creating space for what truly matters.
20. Set Clear Boundaries for Work-Life Balance
As the year ends, I take a moment to reflect on my work-life balance and set boundaries for the upcoming year. Making sure I’m taking time for myself, family, and friends is key to avoiding burnout.
I’ve learned that balance is essential for maintaining my well-being.
21. Start a Sleep Routine to Improve Your Overall Rest
I’ll be the first to admit I struggle with sleep sometimes, but December is when I start focusing on a solid sleep routine.
I aim for a consistent bedtime, avoid screens before sleep, and make my bedroom a calm, cozy retreat. Getting enough rest is so important, especially when things get busy during the holidays.
You might also like: 35 Things to Do in January to Kickstart a Successful Year22. Set a Daily or Weekly “Me Time” Block for Relaxation or Hobbies
With everything going on in December, it’s so easy to forget about “me time.” So, I schedule daily or weekly blocks of time just for myself—whether it’s reading, doing a craft, or just sitting quietly.
It helps me recharge and feel like I’m still prioritizing my own needs during a busy time. This is also among my most favorite things to do in December.
23. Create a Budget for Your Holiday Shopping and Stick To It
Holiday shopping can quickly add up, so I like to create a budget before I start buying gifts. I make sure to stick to it, and it helps me stay organized and avoid overspending. It takes the stress out of shopping when I have a plan in place.
24. Plan for the Holidays but Avoid Over-Scheduling Yourself
I love the holidays, but I’ve learned that over-scheduling myself can be exhausting. So, I try to plan my activities but also leave some breathing room. It’s about finding that balance between celebrating and having time to relax and recharge.
25. Send Handwritten Holiday Cards or Thoughtful Notes to Loved Ones
Sending handwritten holiday cards is a tradition I look forward to every year. There’s something so special about taking the time to write a personal note to those I care about. It’s a simple but meaningful way to spread love and gratitude during the season.
26. Create a Vision Board for Your Goals and Aspirations
In December, I start thinking about the new year ahead, and creating a vision board is one of my favorite ways to visualize my goals.
I gather images, quotes, and reminders of what I want to achieve, and it helps me stay focused on my dreams for the upcoming year.
27. Create a Winter Bucket List of Activities You Want to Try
I always make a winter bucket list of things I want to do before the season ends.
Whether it’s ice skating, baking gingerbread cookies, or taking a winter hike, it’s a fun way to embrace the season and make sure I’m checking off some seasonal activities.
28. Buy a Planner for the Year Ahead
In December, I treat myself to a new planner for the upcoming year. It’s my way of preparing for the year ahead and staying organized. I love the idea of starting fresh and using a beautiful planner to track my goals, plans, and dreams.
You might also like: 34 Things to Do in February for a Successful and Productive Month29. Reflect on Your Personal Growth Over the Year and Celebrate Your Progress
December is all about celebrating progress. I reflect on how far I’ve come this year, the lessons I’ve learned, and the growth I’ve experienced.
It’s a moment to appreciate myself and how much I’ve accomplished—no matter how big or small the achievements are.
30. Engage in Acts of Kindness or Volunteer During the Holiday Season
The holidays are a wonderful time to give back. I try to engage in small acts of kindness, whether it’s volunteering or just helping out a friend. It reminds me of the joy that comes from giving, and it makes the season even more special.
31. Plan a Relaxing Winter Getaway or Staycation to Recharge Before the New Year
If I can, I love planning a little winter getaway or a staycation to recharge. After a busy year, it’s the perfect way to relax and reset before jumping into the new year.
Whether it’s a cozy cabin or just a weekend at home, it helps me feel refreshed and ready for what’s next.
32. Set a Goal to Drink More Herbal Teas to Help With Winter Wellness
Herbal teas are my go-to for staying healthy and cozy during the winter months.
I set a goal to drink more of them in December, whether it’s peppermint, chamomile, or ginger tea. It’s such a comforting and calming ritual, plus it keeps me hydrated during the colder weather.
What’s on Your List of Things to Do in December?
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