One Month In 🌟 A Cozy Check-In

If January wore you out, this is your reminder that February still counts.

Hey Cozy Corner Crew,

Can you believe today is February 1? We are officially one full month into the new year, which feels both fast and also like January lasted approximately 400 days. Truly a fascinating time warp situation. 😵‍💫

I wanted to check in with you today because based on the YouTube poll I shared recently, a lot of y’all are feeling exhausted but still pushing through. And honestly… same. January was heavy for so many people, and if you’re already tired, it just means you’re paying attention. And probably watching the news. IYKYK.

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So this is not a “how are your goals going?” post. This is a “how are you doing?” post.

If you set intentions or resolutions in January and you’ve already stumbled, fallen off, or quietly pretended they never existed (no judgment, I have done this with gym memberships and one very ambitious planner), that doesn’t mean you failed. It just means you’re human. You don’t have to start over. You just get to notice where you are and build from there.

As we step into February, I kind of love the idea of releasing anything from January that feels heavy, discouraging, or just plain rude to your nervous system. We don’t need to drag all of that into the new month with us like emotional carry-on luggage. And if January got y’all down, just remember… February is a fresh month and thank God it only has 28 days. We can do hard things for 28 days. 😉

Maybe this is a good moment to focus on what’s always within reach: your effort, your attitude, and your willingness to show up again. Not perfectly. Not dramatically. Just honestly. Some days that looks like big energy and effort. Some days that looks like putting on real pants. Both count. (Pajama days still count emotionally.)

If January felt hard, I hope February feels a little softer for you. And if you’re still in the thick of it rolling into this new month, that’s okay. Sometimes we don’t see the meaning of the grind until later.

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I’d really love to hear from you in the comments today, if you feel up to sharing. Think of this as a Cozy Corner roll call:

✨ How are you actually feeling one month into the year?
✨ What’s one small thing you’re proud of from January, even if it feels silly?
✨ And what’s one gentle intention you want to carry into February?

No pressure to sound positive or to have it all figured out. Real answers only. (And yes, “tired but still trying” is a very valid answer.)

Also… can we talk about the fact that this Substack is officially one month old today?! Thank you for being here and helping me build this little community. I’m really glad you’re part of it. 😊

Wherever you’re starting this week, I want you to know I’m in your corner. We keep showing up in small ways, and somehow, those small ways add up.

With you, always,
Jaylen 💛

P.S. If you want something gentle to help you reset or refocus, the New Year, New You series is still available and always here for you. ✨