Grief and the weight of a new year
We all carry grief. It is never easy—and it is not a problem to be fixed. Grief is messy and often feels “out of bounds.” Add to this the idea that January 1 is supposed to represent fresh starts and new beginnings, and life can feel especially heavy.
Grief does not follow calendars, timelines, or New Year’s resolutions.
When looking ahead feels impossible
Sometimes it’s hard to look forward when everything you want lies in the past. The pressure to focus on a “new and better you” or to set new goals can feel overwhelming when you’re simply trying to make it through the day—or the night.
Whether your loved one(s) died in 2025 or years (even decades) ago, a new year often brings renewed awareness of their absence. Grief has a way of reminding us who we miss, no matter how much time has passed.
Collective grief in 2026
I also want to acknowledge that 2026 has already brought collective grief and loss. There’s a good chance you may be experiencing a wide range of emotions—sadness, anger, numbness, overwhelm, or all of the above.
These reactions are normal.
So let’s take a collective breath together (inhale…and E-X-H-A-L-E) as we consider a few gentle suggestions for navigating grief this year.
Gentle ways to carry grief forward
- Honor your struggle. Release the pressure to “move on.” Instead, try moving forward while acknowledging who and what you’ve lost.
- Choose self-compassion over self-improvement. Consider setting intentions rather than resolutions.
- Protect your energy. It’s okay to laugh and have a good time—joy and grief can coexist.
- Create supportive mantras. Examples might include:
- “Grief is hard, and I’m doing my best.”
- “It’s okay to not be okay.”
- “I will give myself time and space to heal.”
- “I will find meaning and purpose in my grief journey.”
Carrying love forward
Remember: you are not leaving your loved ones behind. You are bringing them with you in new ways. Take time to reflect on how you continue to carry them with you.
Grief takes work. Some calendar days will be harder than others, and some days you may need to take a complete break from that work.
Think of grief like carrying a very heavy suitcase—you cannot (and should not) carry it 24/7. It’s okay to put it down from time to time.
Caring for yourself
Self-care matters. Taking care of yourself is not optional—it’s essential.
- Breathe
- Move your body
- Drink plenty of water
- Stay connected
Our Grief Support and Life Legacies programs and events are meaningful ways to stay connected and supported.
Making room for both
While this new year holds pain and sadness, it will also hold sweet moments, laughter, and joy. There is room in our hearts for both.
You are not alone on your grief journey. Difficult things are more bearable when we have support from others.
LOVE LIVES ON.
Sending extra love and hugs to all,
—Susan
