The January Trap: Why Consistency Beats Pressure Every Time

And here we are again. Another year over and another year full of hope, potential, and promise.

But with that comes the collective scramble to make January the month where everything changes. Suddenly, it’s Dry January, sugar-free January, drink 8 glasses of water a day January, join the 5am club January—the list goes on.

Why do we do this to ourselves?

It’s like cramming for an exam the night before. A frantic burst of activity that fizzles out when the pressure becomes too much. And then what? February rolls in, and we’re right back where we started—feeling guilty for ‘failing.’

Why I Gave Up January Pressure

Several years ago, I decided to stop putting that kind of pressure on myself in January.

I didn’t see the point of spending a whole month sober, only to count the days until February 1st when I could have a drink again. If I’m only waiting for it to end, then surely the issue is bigger than just a dry month.

And yes, sobriety is a positive thing—for those ready to make that change. But for me, I’ve realised that I don’t respond to shock tactics or drastic measures. They don’t make me want to keep going; they just leave me dreading the next step.

So instead, I’ve learned to approach things differently.

What Actually Works?

For me, it’s about breaking things down and looking at my life as a whole.

This year, I’m focusing on consistency. Not big, dramatic changes. Just steady, small actions I can stick to.

My Non-Negotiables for This Year

1. Maintain healthy boundaries: This includes protecting my time and energy from people or situations that drain me.

2. Leave the day job: I’ve been putting this off for seven years, and it’s finally time to make the leap.

3. Stay consistent: If I can be consistent, I know I’ll get results.

Why Consistency is My Focus

Consistency isn’t flashy, but it works. It’s what builds momentum. Even small, repeated actions create lasting results. Unlike quick fixes, consistency doesn’t rely on willpower—it builds habits that stick.

So, what do I want to be consistent with?

   •   Building my business.

   •   Making time for self-care.

   •   Making healthier eating choices.

   •   Moving more (working from home makes this a challenge).

   •   Taking time for self-development.

These are the things I want to focus on sustainably—not perfectly.

Your Turn: Reflect and Decide

If you’re feeling the pressure of January and all the arbitrary goals people set, here’s a different approach:

Instead of diving headfirst into extremes, ask yourself:

What areas of your life would you like to be more consistent with?

Write them down. Then, make one decision. Choose one small action you can take this week to start being consistent in that area.

The Power of a Decision

There is raw, true power in making a decision. Once you decide to take consistent action—even if it’s small—you’ll be amazed at what you can go on to achieve.

So pause for a moment today, reflect, and decide.

What will you be consistent with this year?