Finding joy in the last week of the year

Hey, lovelies! 🫶🏼

Can you believe we’re in the final week of 2024? It feels like the year zoomed by, and here we are, standing on the edge of a brand new beginning. But before we jump into the fireworks and resolutions, let’s take a moment to soak up the joy this week can bring. This isn’t just a countdown to 2025, it’s a chance to reflect, celebrate, and embrace the magic of wrapping up a whole year of growth.

If you’re feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion (trust me, I get it!), don’t worry. Let’s make this week the most joyful, intentional, and self-loving stretch of 2024. So grab your favorite drink, cozy up, and let’s chat about how to find joy in these final days of the year!

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1. Reflect on the year

Let’s start with a little self-love exercise: reflecting on how far we’ve come this year.

For me, 2024 was a whirlwind of learning, growing, and, let’s be real, some challenges too. There were moments I doubted myself, days I felt stuck, and nights I stayed up worrying about the future. But there were also victories, big and small.

Take a moment to think about your wins this year. Did you start a new habit? Learn something new? Show up for yourself even when it was hard? Write it down, say it out loud, or just smile knowing you’ve done so much more than you give yourself credit for.

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2. Set tiny, meaningful goals for the week

Here’s the thing: I’m all about that hustle culture life in December. This week is about crushing goals and cramming in last minute to-dos. So, let’s focus on tiny, joyful goals that bring us happiness.

For me, my goals this week are:

🌸 Write down three things I’m grateful for every morning.

🌸 Spend an afternoon decluttering my headspace (goodbye, random thoughts I don’t need!).

🌸 Make time for one fun activity, maybe a movie night. 

Your goals can be just as simple. Think about what would make this week feel fulfilling for you. Maybe it’s reaching out to a friend you haven’t talked to in a while or finally treating yourself to that self-care day you’ve been putting off. 

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3. Embrace the holiday spirit

Even if you’re not big on festivities, there’s something magical about this time of year. For me, it’s the little things that make December feel so special: twinkling lights, cozy evenings, and the smell of something sweet baking in the kitchen.

If you’re not feeling the festive vibes, try creating your own little traditions. Maybe that’s making a cup of hot chocolate, wrapping yourself in your fluffiest blanket, and watching your favorite comfort movie. Or it could be stepping outside to enjoy a sunset or stargaze.

Joy doesn’t have to be loud or over the top; it can be found in those quiet, cozy moments too.

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4. Practice gratitude daily

Gratitude is a game changer, especially during the last week of the year. It shifts your focus from what you didn’t accomplish to all the beautiful things that did happen.

Every night this week, I’m taking five minutes to write down three things I’m grateful for. Some days, it’s big things like my family or health. Other days, it’s tiny joys like a good day or finding my favorite snack at the store.

Try it out, it doesn’t have to be fancy. A quick list in your notes app or a scrap piece of paper will do. The key is to let yourself feel the gratitude as you write. 

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5. Spend time with loved ones

One of the best parts of this week? Quality time with the people who make your heart happy. For me, that means soaking up moments with family, laughing at silly jokes, and sharing meals together.

If you’re able to, carve out some time for your loved ones. It doesn’t have to be a big event, a simple chat, a walk together, or even sending a heartfelt message can create joy.

And if you’re spending this week solo, don’t forget to show yourself some love too. Plan a "date" with yourself, maybe a spa night, a good book, or a creative project you’ve been wanting to try.

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6. Treat yourself

Girl, you’ve made it through 2024, you deserve to celebrate YOU!

Treat yourself this week in a way that feels special. Maybe that’s indulging in your favorite dessert, buying that thing you’ve been eyeing, or taking a guilt free day off to relax. For me, it’s probably going to involve a little pampering session at home face masks, and my favorite playlist on repeat.

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7. Look forward to the new year with excitement

Here’s my secret for a joyful week: I treat the last days of the year as a soft launch for the new one. Instead of stressing over resolutions, I focus on setting intentions.

For 2025, my intention is to prioritize balance. I want to keep growing but also remember to rest, laugh, and enjoy the little moments.

Take some time to think about what you want 2025 to feel like. Not just what you want to achieve, but how you want to experience it.

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8. Find joy in the little things

Sometimes, the simplest moments hold the most magic. This week, I’m paying extra attention to the little things like the way the sunlight filters through my window, the sound of rain, or the first sip of my morning tea.

Take a moment to slow down and notice those tiny joys. It’s amazing how much happiness they can bring when you pause to appreciate them.

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Wrapping it up

The last week of the year is a gift, a chance to reflect, celebrate, and prepare for what’s next. Let’s make the most of it, not by doing more but by feeling more. Joy, gratitude, and love are all around us if we take the time to notice.

So here’s to you, lovelies, for making it through 2024. Let’s end this year on a joyful, bubbly note and step into 2025 ready to shine even brighter.

What are your plans for this week? How do you find joy in the last days of the year? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments or over on my Instagram @_fathimakader.

Sending you all the love,

Fathima 💗