How to Start 2026 Like You Mean It
Every January 1st, my dear friend Judy and I go for a hike and bring our list of “Intentions” to read to each other. We use the word intentions rather than resolutions because, in my experience, resolutions come with unrealistic deadlines, a harsh energy, and are often quickly broken. Intentions feel gentler, more doable, and are allowed to evolve. They’re a concept that lasts throughout the year (so no shame if something doesn’t manifest in 30 days).
I also choose a few words as my overarching theme for the year. I write it on a post-it that I stick near my computer as a quiet reminder of what’s actually important. Last year’s theme was, “Work Smarter Not Harder.” The year before that was, “Family First, Always.” These little reminders help me stay pointed in the right direction, even when the year gets messy.
With all that in mind, this pre-January blog post is going to be a little different: no manifesting, no “new year, new me,” no color-coded 2026 goal charts, or Tony Robbins type sales pitches. Just a few practical reminders to help you get through the last weeks of 2025 with your sanity intact, as well as some tips for starting 2026 in a way that serves you, your creative goals, and doesn’t rely on what the industry’s doing. (Because if this past year has taught us anything, it’s that waiting for the industry to “heat up” can’t be what drives you to keep writing.)
1. Let the year end. Don’t autopsy it
If ‘reflecting on the past year’ is your thing — skip the guilt trip. Don’t fall into the trap of “autopsying” everything that didn’t happen: “I didn’t sell a script… I should have written more… I didn’t get enough meetings…” This kind of self-flagellation is human, but it’s also not helpful. First of all, nobody ticks every box in a given year, and second, some years are just messy (just making it through can be accomplishment enough). So let 2025 be what it was. Close the book. Don’t try to rewrite it. Step into the new year fresh, without the baggage of the last one.
2. You’re allowed to hit the brakes
If you’re not careful, December can become a marathon you never signed up for: wrapping up work, navigating family logistics, overspending on gifts, rushing to endless holiday parties — all while pretending you’re “relaxing.” Give yourself a day (or a week) to move slowly. Sleep in, read a book, watch a movie, or have zero plans and see where the day takes you (if you have to, put it in your calendar to make sure you stick to it). Rest isn’t laziness — it’s how you refill your tank. (One way I do that is to take off my Apple watch for a day, so I don’t see endless texts come in that I feel pressure to respond to. It’s a little scary, but liberating).
3. Beware the December doom scroll
End of year doom scrolls can feel particularly brutal. Everyone’s posting about their “2025 wins”: scripts sold, TV shows premiered, babies born, houses bought… Meanwhile, you might be staring down a stack of bills and a script draft that’s been stuck in Act Two since 2024. So do yourself a favor — set some social media boundaries. Set a ‘Daily App Limit’ on Instagram and TikTok (hot tip: if you have an iPhone it’s under Screen Time in the Settings menu). ‘Mute’ accounts that stress you out. Or maybe take a full social-media break for the last week of December (I promise no one will notice). At the very least, try to remember: social media only shows what people want you to see.
4. Set writer’s goals, not industry goals
The entertainment industry is inherently unpredictable, and 2026 will be no different. So, if you like making year-end goals, focus on making goals you can actually control (I’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating). Forget “sell a script by June” or “get staffed this year”. Instead, aim for things that are not dependent on anyone else’s “yes”. Finish that spec. Rewrite that outline. Shoot that short. Personal writer’s goals create agency and confidence; industry goals only create anxiety. That said…
5. Pick one thing to push forward, not twelve
Writers love an early January panic. That, “I need to write four new samples and reinvent my career before Sundance ends” energy. Please don’t do that to yourself! Instead, choose one project you want to focus on. Something tangible that you can dedicate time to and be proud of by spring. Don’t become the writer with 30 unfinished scripts and no momentum — be the writer who finishes one great thing (then, move onto the next great thing).
6. Here’s the truth
You don’t have to enter 2026 with boundless optimism or a 15-point action plan. You just need a little rest, a mental re-group, and an idea of one solid step forward you’re going to attempt come January. So take this moment to breathe, decompress, eat good food, spend time with people you love, and carve out some time for yourself. That’s how you prepare to show up ready, not overwhelmed, when the new year begins.
Wishing you happy holidays and good things in 2026!
What are your best tips for starting a new year in the right headspace? Let me know @CaroleKirsch!
For more industry info and tips check out these additional resources:
If you're interested in finding out more about my one-on-one coaching, go to: carolekirschner.com/options
For the ultimate guide to pitching a TV show that sells, check out my e-book, The Ultimate Guide to a Killer Pitch
To learn how to create your “personal logline” read my free e-book, Tell Your Story in 60 Seconds.
For my in-depth video course on breaking into the business go to: Carole Kirschner’s Hollywood Boot Camp.
And you can find my book, Hollywood Game Plan on Amazon or at Michael Wiese Productions (MWP).