It’s hard to believe, but April is over—and May is here. I already have a full TO DO list, a
stack of event invitations, and gardening to tend to. Somehow, this month always manages to arrive with more energy than we may be ready for.
If you're hoping to avoid the feeling of being pulled in more than a dozen directions, now’s the perfect time to prepare. Here are 10 things you can do right now to ease your way into this new
month:
1. Set one clear goal for May
Choose a single focus for the month ahead—just one thing you really want to complete, start, or improve. Maybe it’s organizing family photos, getting outside more, or sticking to a consistent bedtime. A
defined goal can help cut through the noise and give your days direction.
2. Open up a fresh page in your notebook
There’s something so motivating about a clean page—no scribbles, no cross-outs, just fresh space waiting for your thoughts.
Use it to jot down your May priorities, a short TO DO list, or even a few encouraging words. This small action signals to your brain that you're turning a corner and stepping into something new.
4. Check your calendar for May surprises
Flip through your calendar or digital planner to spot anything coming up—birthdays, holidays, graduations, appointments. Take note of deadlines and even fun events so you’re not blindsided. Bonus points for setting a reminder or adding in a prep day before big events.
5. Review your April
leftovers
Look back at what you meant to get done last month. Is there a task that can be crossed off entirely? Something you need to reschedule? Don’t drag unfinished projects into May unless they’re still truly important. Decluttering your TO DO list is just as powerful as decluttering your closet.
6. Restock any home basics
Make a quick round through the house and check on the essentials—trash bags, toothpaste, laundry detergent, allergy meds, your favorite snack. May can get hectic, and nothing adds stress faster than realizing you're out of the things you need most.
7. Declutter your phone’s home screen
Take a few minutes to delete apps you no longer use, update the ones you do, and move things into folders. A clean digital space can help you feel more focused. Let’s be honest, fewer icons staring back at you is just plain
satisfying.
8. Choose one area to refresh for spring
Pick a small area to give a seasonal boost, like the front porch, a hallway table, or even your car. Add a flower pot, swap out throw pillows, or just sweep and wipe down the space.
Little refreshes like these help signal the start of a new season in a feel-good way.
9. Make a “fun list” too
It’s easy to fill May with obligations. Pause and choose a few things you’re looking forward to. Maybe it's going to a farmers
market, having dinner outside, or watching fireflies with the kids. Putting joy on the calendar gives it a place of importance—right where it belongs.
On another note...
Mother's Day is May 11th. Need gift ideas
for a special mom? You're going to love my list of
