Yesterday, January 3, 2025, was the Festival of Sleep Day. It’s a lighthearted holiday dedicated to the joys of sleep and relaxation. It’s a day when we’re all encouraged to take a break from our busy lives and catch up on some much-needed rest
It came and went, and most of us, myself included, snoozed right through it—though not in the fun, restorative sense. But since it’s the new year and the hangovers from New Year’s Eve are finally subsiding, let’s focus on resolutions. Not the lofty ones we’ll abandon by January 13th (looking at you, gym membership), but a resolution to sleep better—because better sleep makes all the other goals that much more achievable.
So, grab your coziest blanket, and let’s make this the year we actually wake up on the right side of the bed. Here’s how to create sleep resolutions that stick:
Breaking Up with Bad Sleep Habits
Like every good makeover story, we’re starting with a breakup—but this time, it’s with bad habits. It’s time to ghost doom-scrolling, binge-watching, and staying up for “one more” episode of that series you swore you’d just sample.
Here’s the thing: blue light is the toxic ex of your circadian rhythm. It messes with your sleep cycles and leaves you feeling groggy in the morning. So, set boundaries. Limit screen time. Apps like Space (available on iOS and Android) can help you monitor your usage, or if you’re feeling bold, hand over control of your screen timer to someone you trust. Just maybe not your 12-year-old daughter who’ll gleefully lock you out of TikTok forever.
And when the screens go off, lean into healthier habits. Replace Netflix marathons with relaxing podcasts or sleep stories. Invest in sleep headphones, close your eyes, and let your mind drift somewhere calming—preferably not back to that cringe-worthy thing you said in 2014.
The Bedroom Glow-Up
Your bedroom deserves a makeover, and no, I’m not suggesting you splurge on Pinterest-worthy boho decor (unless you’re into that). This glow-up is all about turning your room into a soothing sleep oasis.
Start with the basics: new sheets, pajamas, and a pillow that doesn’t leave your neck feeling like it’s auditioning for a horror movie. High-thread-count sheets? Luxurious. A mattress that doesn’t sag in the middle? Life-changing. Treat your bed like the VIP it is. After all, you’ll spend roughly 33 years of your life in it. (Yes, really.)
Pro tip: If your mattress predates your last serious relationship, it’s probably time to upgrade. Companies like Casper and Purple offer trial periods—so you can literally sleep on it before committing.
The Midnight Mind Declutter
Ah, the midnight replay of “every embarrassing thing I’ve ever done.” We’ve all been there. Enter: journaling.
Journaling isn’t just for angsty teenagers. It’s a way to declutter your mind before bed. Whether you’re jotting down the day’s highlights, venting about what annoyed you, or sketching out tomorrow’s to-do list, putting pen to paper helps your brain let go of the mental clutter that keeps you up at night.
Not a natural writer? No worries. Guided journals like The Nocturnal Journal or the cheekier Zen as F*ck offer prompts to get you started. And if your journaling habit veers more into venting territory, just call it “emotional detoxing” and roll with it.
Sleep Resolutions with a Twist
Let’s keep it real: you’re going to fall off the wagon at some point. Quitters’ Day (a.k.a. the second Friday in January) is a thing for a reason. But here’s the twist: that’s okay. Resolutions aren’t about perfection; they’re about progress.
If you binge TikTok until 1 a.m. one night, don’t spiral. Acknowledge it, reset, and move forward. January 1st is just an arbitrary date. Every night is an opportunity to recommit to better sleep.
You Are Deserving of Good Sleep
Say it with me: “I am deserving of deep, nourishing, and relaxing sleep.” Whatever task you think absolutely needs to get done tonight? It can wait. That inner critic telling you you’re failing at life because you missed a goal or two? Hit the snooze button on them.
Take a hot bath. Journal your worries away. Slip into your newly upgraded bed and let the day drift into the past. Sweet dreams, my friend. Here’s to waking up ready to tackle 2025 with a clearer head and a brighter outlook.
Keep me posted on your better sleep journey! If you found this post helpful, share it with a fellow insomniac. And if you’re looking for more tips, check out my article on debunking common sleep myths. Sweet dreams!