December 28, 2025 — 8:00am
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We’re fortunate to live in an era where there’s a lot of advice available on ways to improve mental health without the help of various non-medicated stimulants. However, at this time of year, support can be thin on the ground – and bank balances even thinner.
So whether you’re ending the year on a high or you’re feeling a bit flat as the days tick down to the new year, here are five practical ideas for getting into the right headspace for 2026.
A clean house has been linked to better focus and lower stress levels.iStockClean the house
If you have hosted Christmas, you might have already done a thorough clean of the public-facing parts of the house but if you have a few days to spare, try to find some time to get to those cleaning tasks that are rarely seen to. So, dust behind the bed, tackle the grime inside the bathroom vanity or even clean out the grit that has accumulated in the cutlery or utensil drawer.
A range of studies has shown that a lack of cleanliness can affect everything from mood to sleep quality and the ability to focus. Cleaning your home can create a greater sense of order and control, not just over your living spaces, but over your life as well. One study published a decade ago even suggested that tasks such as washing the dishes can serve as a form of mindfulness. Others have linked householders with clean houses to better fitness levels because they are more active.
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There is a plethora of ways to approach the task but with the clock ticking down to the new year, try setting aside time in a few blocks of 30 or 60 minutes, turning up the tunes and getting stuck in. Make sure you have the right equipment before you start to get the maximum benefit (and minimum frustration).
In the end, what is the worst that can happen? A clean house? Quelle horreur!
Declutter
Want to unburden yourself as the new year rolls around? Shedding things you no longer need (or perhaps have never needed) has been linked to lower stress and anxiety levels, as well as better focus. Sometimes described as “visual noise”, clutter can also affect productivity, as well as lead to higher levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.
January is prime decluttering season, so be mindful of how and where you move your possessions on. Environments like Facebook Marketplace can be useful, as well as Gumtree or buy, swap and sell groups. Look for local places to reduce the inconvenience.
Just the thought of decluttering can be overwhelming for many, so make it manageable, starting with a single room, a closet or a drawer. Having decluttered, the challenge is to maintain discipline by avoiding buying, collecting or otherwise acquiring more stuff. Your wallet will thank you for it.
Which leads to the next idea.
Pay off your debts (aside from the mortgage)
OK, yes, easier said than done. We’re not talking about paying off the mortgage in the next few days, especially in NSW, where borrowers owe more than $800,000 on average. But if you’re able to, pay off any credit card debt accumulated in the lead-up to Christmas. At least, make a plan to do so. Perhaps it’s a bit late to sound a warning on this one, given Australian shoppers were expected to spend a record amount in the post-Christmas sales.
Lunar new year tradition dictates that starting the year in debt is a bad omen. While that date might be a couple of months away, it’s sound advice for all of us and there’s no time like the present for getting into good financial shape for the year. To state the obvious, poor financial health can have a massive impact on mental wellbeing. The National Debt Helpline is available for support, no matter how small or big your financial problems.
Press pause on the year and take a moment for yourself. It can be as simple as a walk in the park with the dog.Getty ImagesMake time for yourself
For many people, the lead-up to the new year has been frantic, often with the frenetic round of events, shopping and unavoidable engagements. For others, it’s just been a really tough year. Even if you find yourself working through the Christmas/new year period, take some time to calm your mind and refocus for the year ahead. Pick up some holiday reading, taking a walk in nature, whatever has meaning for you.
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Try something new
There’s something comforting about routine but over time, we can all slip into a rut. This is the perfect time of year to try something new and “wake up” your brain. It could be as simple as taking up drawing, learning to ride a bike or spending time playing tourist in your own city.
Whenever we try something new, it stimulates our brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter also known as the “feel good” hormone. The right level of dopamine is associated with improved focus, motivation and happiness. And we could all do with a bit more of that.
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Robyn Willis is the Lifestyle Editor for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.Most Viewed in LifestyleFrom our partners