The new year is upon us! And that means it’s time to clear the cobwebs and make room for new things– and I’m not talking about a new wardrobe. I’m talking about new ideas, new goals, and new duas. While you’re on winter break from school or vacation from work, try to be proactive in thinking about how you’re planning to get 2026 off to a good start. To jump start your plans, here are four ways to help you get into the new year's groove. 

1. Clean Up!

In Islam, the idea of purity is important. With our five daily prayers, we are required to purify ourselves with water. The act of ablution is not only a physical cleansing, but it is a symbolic act that signifies the significance of cleanliness in our religion. We are also taught that clean spaces invite the presence of angels. It’s important that we take the time to declutter and clean our homes so that we can maintain the physical and psychological purity needed to invite peace into our new year. 

2. Set Goals & Translate them into Dua

I love a good vision board just as much as I love making new years resolutions. With both of these activities, you are inviting yourself to imagine what you want for your future. You can set goals and even invite new dreams into your life. While these two things haven’t always been the most productive tools to cultivate change, a few years ago I realized that they are useful once translated into dua. As Muslims, the key is to translate our visions for the future into reality through prayer. It is only through dua and Allah’s mercy that we will be able to achieve all we set out to do. So write down your duas for 2026!

3. Forgive

One thing about our deen is that we are encouraged to consistently cleanse our heart of any grudges or ill-feelings towards others. This idea of forgiving people is something we are encouraged to do in our homes during Ramadan or before Hajj. But it’s a good practice to do it regularly throughout the year. While it’s not necessary to call every person and forgive them, it's good to set an intention to let the grudges go in your heart. 

4. Attend a Retreat

There are a few different Islamic institutions that are currently running mini retreats during the winter break. Whether it’s a week or a day long class covering the seerah or adabh, you should check them out. Classes or retreats are a great way to spend time with like minded Muslims that will give you a perspective change and reset your attitude for the new year.