One thing to increase well-being in 2025

As we step into 2025, the idea of setting resolutions, creating big goals, or reinventing your life can feel daunting to those of us who have been there and done that. What if, instead of aiming for big, sweeping changes, you focused on doing just one thing? Incremental steps can lead to powerful transformations when done with intention. Once you experiment with your one thing, you can choose more of what worked for you to make bigger changes. Here are five simple actions you can take to boost your well-being, each with a practical pro tip and easy ideas to get started.

Schedule one free day

Life is busy, but carving out a day for yourself—free of obligations and packed calendars—can be transformative. Use this time to do whatever brings you joy: read, nap, hike, or simply do nothing.

Pro Tip: Pick a date now and mark it on your calendar as "ME DAY." Treat it as sacred as a work deadline or doctor's appointment.

Ideas for scheduling one free day

• Spend a day entirely outdoors in nature.
• Revisit a hobby you haven’t had time for, like painting or baking.
• Binge-read a book or watch a favorite series guilt-free.
• Try a day of intentional rest with no technology.

Set one new boundary

Boundaries are essential for mental health. Whether it’s saying “no” to unnecessary meetings or carving out family-only evenings, choose one area where you’ll protect your energy and time. Note: When you set boundaries others may try to convince you to change your mind. If you stick to your boundary they may get upset. Part of setting a boundary is leaving the people pleasing habit behind.

Pro Tip: Start small. Use a simple script like, “I’m unable to commit to that right now” or "This time is reserved for X."

Ideas for setting one new boundary

• Time Boundary: Avoid work emails after a specific time each evening.
• Money Boundary: Set a budget limit for non-essential purchases.
• Relationship Boundary: Say no to toxic or energy-draining interactions.
• Habit Boundary: Limit social media scrolling to 30 minutes a day.

Clear one corner (or drawer)

Clutter isn’t just physical; it weighs on your mental space too. Pick one corner, drawer, or shelf to declutter, and enjoy the clarity it brings.

Pro Tip: Set a timer for 15 minutes and focus only on that space. Stop when the timer ends to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Ideas for clearing one corner

• Declutter your workspace to boost productivity.
• Organize a messy drawer in the kitchen or desk.
• Create a "donate" pile for items you no longer use.
• Simplify your digital life by cleaning out your email inbox.

Challenge one thought

James Allen said, "suffering is always the effect of wrong thought in some direction." The thoughts we think either support or subtract from our well-being. Identify one recurring negative thought, such as "I'm not good enough," and replace it with a kinder, more realistic perspective.

Pro Tip: When you catch the thought, ask yourself: "What evidence do I have for this?" Then, write down a balanced alternative, like, "I am capable and learning every day."

Ideas for challenging one thought

• Replace "I never have enough time" with "I prioritize what matters most."
• Challenge "I always fail" with "Every mistake is forward growth."
• Swap "No one supports me" for "I can ask for help when needed."
• Shift "I can’t do this" to "I’ll take it one step at a time."

Simplify one action

Complexity often creates unnecessary stress. At work, step back and observe your processes, and note any step that seems redundant. At home simplify one recurring task, like meal prep or your morning routine, to reclaim mental bandwidth.

Pro Tip: Use tools or systems, like automating a bill or setting up a weekly meal plan, to save time and reduce decision fatigue.

• Prep meals for the week to reduce daily cooking stress.
• Automate recurring payments to avoid late fees.
• Lay out clothes the night before to streamline your mornings.
• Create a "default" shopping list for groceries to save time.

Why "one thing" matters

Taking on too much at once often leads to burnout or abandonment. But focusing on one actionable step you get a clear path forward. Look at the "One thing" as an experiment in increasing your discipline and well-being.

Commit to just one idea and try it on for size. It's even more fulfilling to read this list aloud with a colleague or friend and make a pact to hold each other accountable for fulfilling your one thing. This single step opens the door to a more fulfilling and joyful 2025. After all, small actions can lead to profound change—one thing at a time.

Marlene Chism is a consultant, speaker, and the author of From Conflict to Courage: How to Stop Avoiding and Start Leading (Berrett-Koehler 2022). She is a recognized expert on the LinkedIn Global Learning platform. Connect with Chism via LinkedIn, or at MarleneChism.com