10 Important Things To Do At The Beginning Of Every Month
I’ve found that starting each month with a few simple habits keeps me organized, clear-headed, and motivated. These 10 important things to do at the beginning of every month help me reset my mind and feel ready for what’s ahead.
I like making lists and plans every time a new week or month rolls around. For me, planning feels like a fresh chapter waiting to be written. Even though I wasn’t always this way, I’ve grown to really enjoy setting up my month with intention.
Before, I just went along with whatever came my way and only used a daily to-do list to stay somewhat on track. But then I listened to a Mel Robbins podcast where she talked about the “fresh start effect.” It’s the idea that a new time period, like a month or a year, gives you the perfect chance to reset and chase your goals again.
It hit me — that’s why New Year’s resolutions feel exciting. Once I realized I could create that same energy at the start of every month, I made myself a simple monthly routine to reset my life and get organized.
Checking off this list each month makes me feel like I’m taking control and starting on a positive note. I’m not exaggerating when I say it really works.
If you want to come back to this later, you might want to save this post somewhere safe. 🙂
10 Things To Do At The Beginning Of Every Month
1. Review Last Month
The first thing I do is look back at the month that just ended. I sit quietly and think about what went well and what didn’t. I write down three wins, no matter how small, and a few lessons I learned.
Sometimes I even scroll through my photos to remember moments I forgot. It helps me see how much I’ve grown, even if the month felt tough. If I skipped goals or made mistakes, I try not to beat myself up. I just notice them so I can do better this month.
2. Set New Goals
After reflecting, I set clear and realistic goals for the new month. I like to choose no more than three main goals so I don’t feel overwhelmed.
For example, I might aim to walk every morning, save a certain amount of money, or finish reading a book. Writing my goals down in a notebook makes them feel real. I also make sure they’re specific so I know what I’m working toward, not just “do better.”
3. Check Your Calendar
One thing I used to forget was checking my calendar ahead of time. Now, at the start of the month, I open my planner or phone and look at what’s already scheduled.
Birthdays, appointments, meetings—this step saves me from last-minute surprises. If something important is missing, like a dentist visit or a friend’s lunch, I add it right away. It also helps me see how busy the month looks so I can plan my time better.
4. Make a Budget
Money used to stress me out until I started making a simple budget each month. At the beginning of every month, I sit down and write my income and expected expenses.
I try to figure out how much I can save, how much I can spend on fun, and how much goes to bills. This doesn’t take more than 15–20 minutes, but it keeps me from overspending or wondering where my money went. Sometimes I even spot areas where I can cut back.
5. Declutter Your Space
Nothing feels better than starting the month in a clean and calm space. On the first weekend of the month, I pick one area of my home to declutter.
It could be my closet, a drawer, or even just my desk. I throw away trash, donate things I don’t use, and tidy up what’s left. I’ve noticed that when my surroundings feel organized, my mind does too. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just better than it was before.
6. Meal Plan
One thing that saves me so much time and stress is planning meals ahead of time. At the beginning of the month, I come up with a few easy dinner ideas and shop for the basics.
I don’t plan every single meal, but I make sure I have enough groceries to get through the first week or two. This helps me avoid ordering takeout too often or making last-minute trips to the store. It also saves money and helps me eat healthier.
7. Check In With Yourself
This is one of the most important things I do. I ask myself how I’m feeling—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Am I tired? Stressed? Happy?
I write down a few thoughts in a journal or even just say them out loud. If I notice I’ve been feeling low or overwhelmed, I think about what small thing I can do to feel better. Sometimes I schedule a self-care day or plan to call a friend.
8. Plan Time For Friends And Family
Life can get so busy that I forget to connect with the people who matter. So, at the start of each month, I reach out to a few friends or family members.
Even just sending a text to set up a coffee date or a phone call makes a big difference. When I plan it ahead, it actually happens instead of getting lost in my to-do list. Relationships need care, just like anything else.
9. Clean Up Your Digital Space
This one might sound small, but it helps me a lot. At the beginning of the month, I go through my phone and computer.
I delete apps I don’t use, clear my inbox a bit, and organize files if they’re messy. A cluttered digital space can feel just as stressful as a messy room. After this step, my phone feels lighter and easier to use.
10. Do Something Just For You
Finally, I always make sure to do something that makes me happy, just for me. It doesn’t have to be productive or useful—it could be painting, baking, or watching a movie I love.
Starting the month by doing something kind for myself reminds me that I matter too. It gives me a little boost of joy and energy to take on whatever comes my way.
one last thought…
Every month is a fresh start, and you don’t have to do everything on this list. Start small, pick a few that feel right, and build from there.
For me, these 10 important things to do at the beginning of every month have helped me feel more grounded, organized, and happier overall. I hope they help you too.
What’s one thing you always do at the start of the month? Let me know—I’d love to hear your ideas!
