January is more than just the start of a new year. It’s a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and ensure that our daily actions align with our core values. It’s easy to get caught up in the TikTok and Instagram “new year, new you” diet culture messages. Taking the time to assess what matters to you can set the tone for a more fulfilling year.

At New Paths Nutrition, our values are deeply rooted in a weight-neutral approach to healthcare. But what does “weight-neutral” really mean? It means shifting the focus away from weight as a primary indicator of health and instead prioritizing sustainable, health-promoting behaviors that support the well-being of ALL bodies. This perspective emphasizes future-oriented thinking without the pressure of weight-centric goals.
For the past few years, my friends and I have made it a tradition to gather for a mood board and goal-setting night. These gatherings allow me to reflect, connect around shared values, and enjoy some potluck-style grub!
If you haven’t had a chance to set your intentions for the year yet, don’t worry. I’ve put together a list of resolutions inspired by the weight-neutral approach that might give you some ideas.
Try to Eat Locally
I am certainly guilty of swinging through a coffee drive-thru when I could go support a local Charlotte shop. Maybe 2025 is the year that you ditch the Taco Bell and support your local taco truck instead - if within your means!
Reduce Screen Time
“Presence” is the word of 2025. What would it be like for you to be more intentional with technology use? I love a silly TikTok as much as anyone, but let’s try to create space for hobbies and real-world connections. And then make TikToks about that!
Prioritize Mental Health
Can you commit to therapy, meditation, journaling, or setting hard boundaries with work? Poor mental health and body image days can reduce your motivation to eat. Mental health may be misunderstood by many, but not by the practitioners at New Paths Nutrition. We value your mental and physical health equally when assessing your nutrition status.
Explore New Places
Travel provides a much-needed break from regular life, and food can be a fun part of that! Trying the local cuisine wherever you visit is one way to explore and learn the area. Travel can definitely test the stability of your relationship with food. It requires flexibility with the timing and types of food eaten. Do you feel any guilt after eating out multiple days in a row? How is your body image after taking a break from your usual routine? These questions are just a few of many we can explore in session together.
Learn a New Skill
In 2024, I started a crochet kit. In 2025, I am determined to finish the crochet kit. Even if it takes a year (or more…), don’t be afraid to learn a new skill at your own pace!
Add More Fiber to Your Meals
Examples of fiber include whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. When you work with a dietitian at New Paths Nutrition, we will help you set goals to add fiber to your meals and snacks. Fiber can help with gastrointestinal health and is also beneficial for heart health and blood sugar control.
Create a Better Sleep Routine
Much like nutrition, sleep needs are individualized. While the recommended daily amount is 7-9 hours of sleep, you may find that you feel refreshed at ten hours. Sleep hygiene is crucial to overall health. If falling asleep is a struggle, part of your resolution may include nighttime journaling or meditation. I always benefit from doing a brain-dump before bed to calm those racing thoughts.
Read More Books
Set a goal for the number of books you want to read this year. Reminder: goals should be measurable and realistic!
Strengthen Relationships
This resolution is open to your interpretation. You may choose to strengthen your metaphorical relationships, such as your relationship with exercise, substances, or food. Alternatively, strengthening your relationships could mean initiating plans more often or meeting new people.
Volunteer or Give Back
So many of us stopped volunteering as soon as we stopped putting in on our resume, myself included. Grab some friends and make given back a fun group outing! In Charlotte, there are plenty of worthy causes: https://sharecharlotte.org/search/volunteer-opportunities.
Invest in Yourself
Once again, his resolution is open to your interpretation. Investing in yourself could be mean a financial investment or a new health-promoting behavior.
As you set goals for 2025, remember that resolutions don’t have to revolve around weight or appearance to be meaningful. Focusing on habits that align with your values and promote overall well-being can create a more fulfilling approach. I hope you can look back on your 2025 resolutions and be proud of an intentional year. Here’s to a year filled with growth, self-compassion, and goals that truly support you in mind and body!
Thanks for reading until the end! Wishing you a happy and healthy 2025.
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