How about some Autism-friendly New Year’s resolutions for a change?

I find new year resolutions to be rather pointless. But, after reading this autism-focused article on New Tear's resolutions written by Nicholas Bowles for I AM Autism, I wanted to share it:

 

As the New Year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the possibilities ahead and set resolutions that truly matter to you. If you’re autistic, your goals may look a little different – focused on self-care, personal growth, and embracing the things that make you unique. In this guide, you’ll find a range of fun, meaningful resolutions designed to support your well-being, help you connect with others on your terms, and honour your individuality. So, whether you’re looking for calm, joy, or new adventures, read on for resolutions that celebrate your neurodiversity and set you up for a fulfilling year!
 

The New Year is here, and with it comes the tradition of setting resolutions. While many people start fresh by pledging to hit the gym more or finally organise their closet, if you’re autistic, your resolutions might look a little different. That’s because the way we experience the world is unique, and our goals for the year should reflect what truly matters to us!

Whether you’re looking for self-improvement, personal growth, or just a bit of fun, here are some unique, autism-friendly New Year’s resolutions that embrace your individuality and support your well-being.

 

Autism-friendly New Year’s resolutions

 

1. Find Your Calm: Prioritise Sensory Self-Care
Being autistic often means that sensory experiences can be overwhelming. This year, why not create a sensory routine to help you stay calm and grounded? Think about the things that help you feel most at ease: maybe it’s soft lighting, calming music, a weighted blanket, or even a favourite fidget toy. Setting a goal to prioritise sensory self-care can help reduce stress and improve your overall mental health.

Resolution idea: “I will set aside 10 minutes every day for my sensory self-care routine to help me feel grounded and peaceful.”

 

2. Connect on Your Terms: Set Realistic Social Goals
Socialising may be tricky, especially when it feels draining or overwhelming. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have meaningful connections in your own way. This year, aim to set realistic social goals that are achievable, rather than forcing yourself into situations that don’t work for you. Maybe it’s texting a friend more often, setting up a weekly Zoom call, or even joining a group with people who share your interests.

Resolution idea: “I will reach out to at least one friend each week to stay connected in a way that feels comfortable for me.”

 

3. Create a ‘No’ List: Set Boundaries That Protect Your Energy
One of the best things you can do for yourself in the New Year is to set boundaries that honour your needs. Autistic people often find themselves pushed into situations that feel too demanding or uncomfortable. A “no” list is a great way to make sure you’re taking care of yourself. It could include things like “I will say no to social events that don’t feel right” or “I will stop working when I start to feel overwhelmed.” Setting these limits can help preserve your energy for the things that truly matter.

Resolution idea: “I will create and respect my ‘no’ list to protect my time and energy from situations that feel draining.”

 

4. Try New Hobbies (But Keep It Low Pressure!)
Exploring new interests is always fun, but it can feel daunting to commit to something completely unfamiliar. If you love learning, why not challenge yourself to explore a new hobby this year? Whether it’s a new type of art, learning a musical instrument, or diving into a specific area of interest like collecting or coding, take it slow and let your curiosity guide you. No pressure to be perfect – just pure exploration!

Resolution idea: “I will explore one new hobby this year, without worrying about being great at it, and just enjoy the process.”

 

5. Practice Self-Compassion: Celebrate Small Wins
We’re often our own harshest critics, but the New Year is the perfect time to flip that script. Small wins are still wins! Whether you’ve managed to get through a challenging social situation, learned something new, or simply had a good day, celebrate your successes. Practicing self-compassion helps build resilience and a healthy mindset. Acknowledge and appreciate the things that make you proud of yourself!

Resolution idea: “I will celebrate at least one small win every day, whether it’s something I did or simply surviving a tough moment.”

 

6. Structure Your Day for Success: Create an Enjoyable Routine
Many autistic people thrive on structure, and that’s totally okay! This year, consider creating a daily or weekly routine that helps you stay on track and feel in control. The key here is to make your routine work for you, whether that means meal prepping in advance, setting aside time for relaxing activities, or even using a visual schedule to stay organised.

Resolution idea: “I will create a routine that works for me and helps me balance work, play, and rest in a way that feels enjoyable.”

 

7. Embrace Your Special Interests: Dive Deeper Into What You Love
Your special interests are a core part of who you are, and they deserve to be nurtured. This year, give yourself permission to dive even deeper into your passions. Whether it’s reading every book on a subject, starting a blog about your favourite topic, or collecting items related to your interest, let your enthusiasm shine. Embrace what makes you unique, and take pride in your deep knowledge!

Resolution idea: “I will dedicate more time to exploring and expanding my special interests in ways that bring me joy and fulfillment.”

 

8. Let Go of Perfectionism: Celebrate Imperfection
Perfectionism can be a big hurdle for many autistic people. Whether it’s in work, hobbies, or personal life, trying to meet unrealistic standards can be exhausting. This year, try to let go of the need to be perfect and embrace the beauty in imperfection. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes, take breaks, and enjoy the journey. You’re already amazing just as you are!

Resolution idea: “I will challenge my perfectionism by focusing on progress, not perfection, and celebrate the small victories along the way.”

 

9. Create Sensory-Friendly Spaces
This fresh concept for 2026 is truly a game-changer. Transform areas in your home, workplace, or daily routine to align with how your senses actually function. Consider incorporating calming spots, adjustable lighting, quiet zones, or organised routines – whatever helps you feel more at ease rather than overwhelmed. 

Resolution idea: “I’ll set up at least one sensory-friendly area or system that minimises overwhelm and boosts my comfort. (And yes, tailoring your space to suit your brain is a genuine skill, not just about aesthetics.)”

 

10. Choose a word for 2026.
Rather than drowning in a long list of goals, pick a single word to guide you – like Calm, Joy, or Flow. Let this word steer your decisions throughout the year. One word can influence your actions and mindset without piling on the pressure. 

Resolution idea: “I’ll select one word for 2026 and reflect on it weekly to help direct my choices.”

 

Final thought

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be grand, awkward, or exhausting. They should be meaningful, achievable, and in tune with your personal style. Whether that means setting ten ambitious goals or focusing on one word and one habit, both are perfectly fine. Here’s to a year that honours your unique brain, makes you feel great, and helps you create the life you genuinely desire – not the one someone else envisioned for you.

Embrace the uniqueness of your neurodiversity, and celebrate the things that make you you. Here’s to a wonderful, empowering year ahead!