If you’re looking to make positive changes and stick to your new year resolutions, read this. It’s normal to want to set goals in the new year, but let us remind you that you can start fresh at any time — there’s no need to wait for a holiday to begin improving yourself. Start today, start now. Los Angeles offers countless opportunities to start anew (whenever) and stay on track. Whether your goals involve getting active, focusing on self-love, making healthier choices, or being more mindful with your spending — the city is full of resources, events, and communities to support your journey. Here are some of the best things to do and ways to accomplish your resolutions in L.A.:
1. Hiking Groups
It’s a common stereotype that no one walks in L.A. — and yet everyone hikes. Meanwhile not all of us have taken advantage of Los Angeles’ great outdoors — but it’s time to change that up. We promise the city has some fantastic trails. Even better, there are hiking groups to make sure you don’t have to hit the trails alone. Check them out:
2. Running Clubs
As the new year inspires fresh starts and fitness goals, running clubs can be a game-changer for those who thrive on group energy and a little extra motivation. Jogging through the city might feel dull or routine, but with the right community, it transforms into a shared adventure. To help you kick off your resolutions, we’ve put together a list of some of the most diverse running clubs in L.A., offering something for every kind of runner.
3. Shop With A Conscience
It’s no secret that overconsumption is a significant challenge in today’s world, with layers of complexity that can often leave us feeling powerless. But remember, every purchase you make is like casting a vote — where you spend your money holds real influence. One meaningful way to make a difference is by shopping locally and making more conscious choices. From exploring vintage stores to give items a second life, to supporting local farmers at markets, Los Angeles offers plenty of resources to help you make cleaner, more sustainable purchasing decisions.
For more ways to honor and respect our Earth, you can check out our list of ways to make Earth-conscience choices.
4. Save, And Still Enjoy The City Without Spending
Los Angeles is often seen as a city of glitz and glamour, but it’s also filled with accessible and affordable experiences. Luckily, sticking to your budget, (especially if saving money is one of your New Year’s resolutions), doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. From breathtaking outdoor spots to rich cultural activities, L.A. offers plenty of ways to explore and enjoy without spending a fortune. The activities listed here require little to no planning and are incredibly budget-friendly (or even completely free). Here’s our guide to the best free things to do in Los Angeles!
5. Practice Self-Love By Manifesting
Okay, we get it — the word manifesting might feel overused, but bear with us for a moment. There’s undeniable power in visualizing your goals and bringing them to life. In fact, several groups around Los Angeles gather to create dream boards and share inspiration. It’s okay to dream big, and it’s even better to turn those dreams into reality. Of course you don’t need a group, you can do this at home. But just in case, check out the vision board events around L.A. below:
- January 5: Vision Board Online
- January 11: Vision Board Brunch (Culver City)
- January 11: Vision Board Workshop at 1 Hotel (West Hollywood)
- January 11: Hike + Quarterly Vision Board Meetup (Los Angeles)
6. Pamper Yourself
Overworking is deeply ingrained in the culture of Los Angeles, and beyond. We often feel guilty about taking time for ourselves, but that’s such an unhealthy mindset. Consider this your sign to prioritize self-care. You deserve it, even if those nagging voices in your head tell you otherwise. Luckily, L.A. is home to a variety of spas that cater to all budgets, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge. Check out the best spas in the city here!
7. Embrace Dry January
You already know the benefits of taking a break — or even a permanent step away — from drinking, whether it’s for your wallet, your health, or both. However, one common concern about going sober is the fear of missing out on social events. While it may seem small, it’s a real hurdle for many. Fortunately, Los Angeles is home to an array of mocktail bars where you can still enjoy a night out with friends or simply savor a refreshing drink in a vibrant atmosphere. Check out the best alcohol-free bars in L.A.!
8. Enjoy Live Entertainment
Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world — but you already knew that. The new year is the perfect opportunity to step out and embrace everything the city has to offer. From musicals and concerts to comedy shows, L.A.’s live entertainment scene is thriving, and you deserve to be part of it.
9. Give Back To Your Community
Giving back to your community feels truly rewarding. Whether it’s through donations or volunteering your time, there’s real power in making a positive impact. We’ve gathered a list of our favorite organizations in LA that are making a difference year-round, so you can support causes that matter to you. Check out Secret LA’s favorite local organizations here!
10. Support Local Art
Los Angeles is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous art studios and museums that reflect the city’s creative spirit. Many of these cultural treasures are free to enjoy, making it easy to support the local art community this 2025. Explore the best free museums and exhibitions in LA here and surround yourself in the city’s thriving arts scene!
11. Start Dating / Put Yourself Out There
Being single in the city can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. While it may seem intimidating at first, there are plenty of events for singles in L.A. It’s okay to put yourself out there a little, and these events below make it enjoyable to meet new people in a comfortable setting.
12. Touch Grass
Doom scrolling — it happens to the best of us, and let’s be honest, you might even be doing it right now. But it’s time to break the cycle and get yourself outside. While L.A. is often associated with city life, it’s also home to a wealth of outdoor spaces to explore. From beaches to parks and more, there’s so much to enjoy beyond just hiking. Check out our full list of outdoor activities in L.A. and reconnect with the great outdoors!
13. Try Something New
A new year is the perfect time to embrace a new hobby or skill! From cooking classes to pottery workshops, Los Angeles offers a variety of creative and hands-on experiences to explore. Check out some fantastic options below and start your journey into something new!
14. Fitness With Community
Staying accountable with your workouts can be challenging — it’s definitely a journey. While there are plenty of ways to keep yourself on track, let’s be honest: it’s so much easier with a supportive community by your side. Aside from the group hikes and runs mentioned above, check out some local gyms and group workouts below:
15. Make Friends
Okay, forget dating for minute, let’s talk about something just as challenging. We’ll say it if no one else will… making friends as an adult can be tough. Luckily, Los Angeles is full of amazing events and groups designed specifically to bring people together and foster new connections. Check out the incredible groups below that are helping people build friendships and making Los Angeles less lonely: