The Annual Reset: How Rituals Create Momentum Beyond New Year’s Day

It’s that time of year when goal-setting takes center stage. The promise of a fresh start pulls us in, and it’s easy to get swept up in crafting ambitious New Year’s resolutions. But here’s the truth: without a clear roadmap, that initial energy fizzles out faster than the champagne bubbles on New Year’s Day.

Instead of relying solely on resolutions, what if you tried an Annual Reset? This simple, yet transformative process—Refresh, Rewind, Reboot—helps you create momentum that lasts all year long.

At its core, the Annual Reset is about creating space to ground yourself, reflect on the past, and step boldly into the future. It’s not just about goals; it’s about building habits and rituals that anchor transformation.

Why Rituals Matter for Women Entrepreneurs

Rituals have a unique power. They do more than mark time—they give meaning to the transitions we experience. For women small business owners and solopreneurs, who are often juggling the demands of business growth, family, and personal development, rituals can be the secret ingredient to staying inspired and on track.

At our annual retreat, one of the most beloved rituals is the Pool Jump. 🌊

Every January, we gather as a community of women entrepreneurs to reflect, rewind, and reconnect with our vision for the year ahead. We hold hands, take a deep breath, and leap into the water—a literal and symbolic act of courage, release, and renewal.

The Power of the Leap

The pools have changed over the years, from sunny Santa Barbara to the desert oasis of Palm Springs, but the meaning of the ritual remains constant. It’s a moment to celebrate what we’re leaving behind and embrace what’s to come.

One year, in Santa Barbara, the pool wasn’t heated. (Yes, in January!) You could hear our laughter and screams echoing across the retreat property as we jumped. One woman hesitated, standing poolside. Too cold, she said. But as the rest of us splashed in, something shifted.

Fully clothed, she took the leap.

Her decision to join reflected what the pool jump is all about: the energy of community, the courage to embrace discomfort, and the joy of letting go.

Sometimes, change starts as a decision and ends in action. And occasionally, it’s a big, bold splash.

Refresh, Rewind, Reboot: Your Roadmap to Momentum

While you may not have a pool jump planned, you can still incorporate the principles of the Annual Reset into your routine. Here’s how:

1. Recharge
   Clear the clutter—mentally, emotionally, and even physically. Reflect on what’s draining your energy and what’s fueling it. This step creates the foundation for clarity and creativity.

2. Rewind
   Look back on the past year with curiosity, not judgment. What worked? What didn’t? What lessons can you carry forward? This reflective process isn’t about finding fault; it’s about celebrating wins and uncovering opportunities for growth.

3. Reboot
   Create a clear roadmap for the year ahead. Set goals that align with your vision and values, then outline actionable steps to bring them to life. Remember, it’s not just about the what—it’s about the how.

What Rituals Will Anchor Your Year?

Rituals don’t have to be big or dramatic to be meaningful. Whether it’s journaling at sunrise, lighting a candle during your evening reflection, or finding your own version of the pool jump, these intentional moments create space for transformation.

So, as you map out your year, ask yourself:

• What am I ready to release?
• What am I stepping into?
• How can I create rituals that ground and inspire me?

Because when you anchor your goals in meaning and surround yourself with a community of support, the momentum doesn’t stop after New Year’s Day—it grows stronger with each passing season.

Ignite 20225 Annual Retreat

Click here to find out more about our upcoming Ignite 2025 retreat and do the pool jump with me!

What’s your ritual for renewal? Share it below—I’d love to celebrate your leap into the New Year with you!