15 Whole30 Soup Recipes to Keep You on Track Through Winter

Whole30 dinner recipes that actually comply with the diet's rules are like gold when you've committed to the plan. Warm winter salads are tasty, but if you want something a smidge more comforting, winter soups come in *very* handy. Most importantly, they won't derail the healthy progress you're making. Take a look at this list of Whole30-friendly soup recipes, and you'll be set all season long.


Whole30 Chicken Zoodle Soup

If you’re looking for a soul-soothing recipe that’s still diet-friendly, you’ve come to the right place. (via Brit + Co)

Instant-Pot Baked Potato Soup

You’re going to be thrilled with the bacon-y creaminess infused in every warm bite. (via Brit + Co)

Gluten-Free Zuppa Toscana

Olive Garden is famous for its Zuppa Toscana soup, but it’s not gluten-free or Whole30. Try preparing this diet-friendly version (with coconut milk instead of cream) in your slow cooker. (via Noshtastic)

Curried Cauliflower Rice Kale Soup

Next time you’re craving takeout, toss the menu and make this instead. Your body will thank you. (via Cotter Crunch)

Instant-Pot Minestrone Soup

Dive into a bowl of hearty minestrone with seasonal veggies and chunks of beef. (via Real Food Whole Life)

Carrot Cardamom Soup

When your skin needs a boost of vitamin A, a cup of carrot soup soup will do you good. Top with toasted seeds for an extra layer of flavor. (via The Little Green Spoon)

7. Creamy Cauliflower Soup With Bacon: This soup is so full of flavor that you will think you’re eating at a fancy restaurant. Save yourself a step and use frozen cauliflower rice in a pinch. (via The Endless Meal)

Sweet Potato Chili

This bean-less, sweet potato chili will warm you right up. (via Primavera Kitchen)

Homemade Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup

This versatile recipe contains no mysterious additives. (via Noshtastic)

Paleo Chicken Pho With Zoodles

Give classic egg drop soup a spicy Thai kick with meatballs and chiles. You can’t go wrong with this one because it’s Paleo, Whole30, and low carb. (via Wicked Spatula)

Authentic Tom Ka Gai Soup

It doesn’t matter how dedicated you are to your lifestyle, sometimes you just get a hankering for an adventurous meal. To help satisfy those cravings, introduce yourself to the flavors of Thailand. This fragrant soup is a beautifully balanced blend of chicken, coconut milk, and veggies. (via Goodie Godmother)

Crock-Pot Loaded Mexican Chicken Soup

Cooking for a Whole30 lifestyle can be time-consuming. However, for this recipe, all you have to do is throw handfuls of ingredients into your Crock-Pot and walk away. When you return, dinner is served. (via Real Food Whole Life)

Coconut Milk Fish Curry Soup

This soup will satisfy your needs without compromising your lifestyle. (via La Petit Chef)

Roasted Red Pepper Bisque With Shrimp

Spicy shrimp cut through the creaminess of this soup to create a balanced, healing bisque that will be welcome on any dreary day. (via Cotter Crunch)

Crock-Pot Paleo Sweet Potato Chipotle Chili

When the weather is frigid, you want a dish that’ll heat you up from the inside. What’s better for that task than a spicy sweet potato chili? (via Cotter Crunch)

New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to just be all about crowded bars and overpriced drinks. Those options can be great, but sometimes a tasteful dinner party can be even more fun and celebratory. Picture this: an array of Champagne cocktails and all kinds of fancy finger foods for your giddy guests before you serve up a fantastic New Year's dinner. Top the night off with a New Year’s toast, and suddenly you’ve hosted the perfect gathering. To get you started, we’ve gathered elegant meal options that range from Asian-inspired to the ultimate adult-ified grilled cheese sandwich to vegan and healthier options. Happy new year!

The best New Year's Eve dinner ideas for a festive start to 2025!

Brit + Co New Year's Eve Dinner Recipes

Brit + Co

Mac + Cheese Gnocchi

When you’re forming your own traditions, start by riffing on classic recipes like this mac and cheese. Our fancy gnocchi side dish is loaded with three kinds of cheese and will make every carb lover give thanks. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

We love a good Instant Pot meal and this creamy and delicious dish does not disappoint. It's great for your NYE feast! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pressure Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Just dump the ingredients into your pressure cooker, and you'll have food enough to feed a family in less than 30 minutes. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

10-Minute Vegan Trader Joe's Stir-Fry

On a budget? You just need a bag of frozen stir-fry veggies and frozen brown rice on hand for the base to this healthy meal. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Mango Shrimp Curry

A jar of mango chutney acts as the base of this shrimp stir-fry. Talk about summery goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Thai Basil Stir-Fry

Punchy Thai basil, chiles, and garlic add a burst of flavor to this simple ground chicken stir-fry. Serve with sticky white rice so you can soak up every last bit of sauce. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

4-Ingredient Vegan Baked Ziti

Bake pasta without having to boil it beforehand by giving it a quick soak. You'll be surprised at how much time you save. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sheet-Pan Lemon Chicken, Squash, and Green Beans

We love everything about this simple and fresh sheet-pan chicken and veggies. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Vegan Sheet-Pan German Sausage and Veggies

Hearty vegan cooking doesn't have to take forever. Whip out your handy sheet-pan, and you'll be eating this melange of veggie sausage, potatoes, and cabbage in about 45 mostly hands-off minutes. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Mexican-Style Hot Dogs in Lettuce Wraps

Keep it casual with a jumble of veggies and black beans that put a much fresher spin on hot dogs. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

20-Minute Tahini Salmon Salad

The rich and nutty tahini dressing is the key to transforming this salad into one you'll actually get excited about eating. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pressure-Cooker Carnitas

This flexible recipe has a flavorful base of pork shoulder, aromatic veggies, adobo sauce, and beer, but you can also get creative by adding your own combination of herbs and seasonings. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Easy French Dip Sandwiches

For a casual yet still comforting NYE meal, try our version of Pinterest’s most-pinned Instant-Pot recipe cooks tender chuck roast in nutty ghee, which we serve on buttered pretzel rolls with mild cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and leftover juices for dipping. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Paleo Orange Chicken

The classic American-Chinese staple is made even quicker when seared and pressure-cooked in the IP. Add a little bit of sriracha for a sweet and spicy flavor that's unmatched. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Beef Stew

You'll want to go ahead and bookmark this Instant Pot recipe because chances are, after you make this stew for the first time, you’ll go back again and again. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Keto Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

We thought meatballs couldn't get much better but stuff them with cheese and suddenly they're a whole new meal that we can't get enough of. We love to use them on top of zoodles but any old noodles will work too ;). (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Curry

This side dish can also serve as a main course for any plant-based eaters around your dinner table this Christmas Eve. The flavors of pumpkin and vegetables keep things light and bright, while the spicy curry will warm you to your toes. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Harissa Shrimp Recipe With Chickpea-Dill Tomato Sauce

You'll love this recipe due to its versatility. The tomato sauce could easily support any protein, from tofu to rack of lamb. Not into dill? Use parsley, mint, basil, or cilantro (or d. all of the above) instead. No chickpeas? Omit them or substitute literally any other legume. Go to Italy or India this NYE with your flavor profile. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Squid Puttanesca

This sustainable, healthy, and delicious meal is a great start to a happy new year. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Sheet pan meals are a lifesaver on busy nights when you don't have time to cook and do a pile of dishes. Quick-cooking shrimp is the ideal protein for the method, since it cooks up in mere minutes. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sesame Shrimp Puffs

These savory puffs are perfect for your NYE potluck. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Spicy Butter Chicken

makes for a romantic weeknight at-home date night. Serve with plenty of basmati rice for scooping up that addictive sauce, and enough slices of naan to literally wipe your plate clean. (via Brit + Co)

New Year’s Food That’s Both Fancy and Delicious

A Spicy Perspective

Pan Seared Duck Breast with Savory Blackberry Sauce

Duck breasts are surprisingly easy to prepare and this flavorful dish will have your dinner guests in awe of your cooking talents. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Culinary Hill

Beef Stroganoff

This crowd pleaser is comforting and easy to prepare with variations like extra creamy or garlicky. (via Culinary Hill)

Barley & Sage

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Make this cozy soup with the classic flavors of chicken pot pie,, topped with crispy puff pastry bites for the perfect NYE meal! (via Barley & Sage)

Half Baked Harvest

Crock-Pot Crispy Caramelized Pork Ramen Noodle Soup With Curry Roasted Acorn Squash

Who knew a crockpot meal could look so beautiful? We love this for an NYE party because it has a little bit of everything, thanks to some truly mouth-watering flavors. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cozy Cravings

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND SPINACH LASAGNA

Make this flavorful twist on traditional lasagna with layers of roasted butternut squash sauce, roasted garlic and a cheesy spinach mixture, all baked until golden. (via Cozy Cravings)

The Endless Meal

PORCHETTA

This all-belly porchetta is so rich and tender and perfect for a holiday dinner. Fennel and traditional Italian seasonings make it feel fancy but it's super easy. Serve with some roasted potatoes and greens. (via The Endless Meal)

Joyful Healthy Eats

Pan Seared Ribeye With Herb Butter

If you need some New Year’s Eve food ideas for an intimate night with just you and bae, it might be time to whip out the top-quality ribeye. Don’t forget to dowse it in the homemade herb butter. YUM! (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

Domestic Superhero

Apple and Gouda Grilled Cheese

Elevating cheese and apples… from the hors d’oeuvres tray to the dinner plate. If you feel like something more casual, try a grab-and-go instead of a sit-down New Year's Eve meal. This sandwich ticks all of the boxes. (via Domestic Superhero)

Natasha's Kitchen

Oven Baked Salmon With Lemon Cream Sauce

If your New Year's dinner ideas need some beautiful color, this salmon recipe should do the trick. Paired with asparagus and rice, your guests will leave absolutely stuffed. (via Natasha’s Kitchen)

Inquiring Chef

Braised Red Wine Short Ribs

We don’t want to get too fancy on you, but the Parmesan polenta made with this dish totally sold us. Plus, the braised ribs are super easy — toss them in the oven, then simply pull them out when guests arrive for a tasty New Year's recipe. Done! (via Inquiring Chef)

Yammie's Noshery

Bacon, Brie, and Apricot Grilled Cheese With Balsamic Reduction

This might be one of the most mouthwatering sandwiches, and New Year's Eve menu ideas, we’ve ever come across. The thick slabs of Brie melting into the apricot preserves goes perfectly with the crunchy, toasted bread. (via Yammie’s Noshery)

Closet Cooking

Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

These chicken breasts can be whipped up in a snap and are truly drool-worthy, which obviously makes them the ideal choice to serve at a holiday dinner party. This would be perfect on a bed of noodles or wild rice. (via Closet Cooking)

The Bojon Gourmet

Curry Roasted Eggplant With Smoked Cardamom and Coconut Milk

If you're wondering what to cook for New Year's Eve, look no further. We think whipping up a curry would be super unexpected and a great surprise to dinner guests. They might be hesitant at first, but once they taste the tender eggplant, all bets are off. (via The Bojon Gourmet)

Cooking and Beer

Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake With Bacon

Alfredo and bacon, friends… the savory combination we didn’t even know we needed. Make sure you’re ready for the cream overload, though, because this gnocchi bake is chock-full of ricotta, sour cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. (via Cooking and Beer)

The Seasoned Mom

Honey Dijon Roasted Pork Tenderloin

This New Year's Eve meal idea is great for an intimate gathering of friends or family to celebrate the new year. Other than the pork, you only need four pantry ingredients (plus salt and pepper), so you can have this whipped up in no time. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Olive You Whole

Whole30 + Paleo Shallot Filet Mignon

Kick off the new year with this healthy yet totally satisfying meal. (via Olive You Whole)

Chef Genevieve LaMonaca

Foolproof Beef Wellingtonby Chef Genevieve LaMonaca

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef Tenderloin center cut canon (ask your butcher)
  • 1-2 T Avocado Oil for searing
  • 8oz shallots, minced
  • 1 lb Mushrooms, cremini or button, minced
  • 6 T butter
  • 1 t thyme leaves
  • 1 T minced Parsley
  • Salt and Pepper TT
  • Pastry Dough x 2:
  • Bread Flour 1 1/2 cups plus 1 T
  • Butter 3/4 cup (6oz) cubed
  • Salt 1/2 t
  • Ice cold water 1/4 cup

Directions:

  • Slice off a 2 lb center cut canon from a beef tenderloin or ask your butcher.
  • Pat dry, season heavily with salt and pepper. sear on all sides using a fat with a high smoke point (Avocado oil)
  • Tip: Precooking your beef is the secret to preventing a soggy bottom crust and most of the moisture is removed prior. This will also ensure that your tenderloin is cooked perfect every time.
  • Roast in a 150 oven to an internal temp of 115. Chill
  • TIP: I like to measure my canon lengthwise side to side then the circumference by using butchers twine. This will help me determine the size I need to make my prosciutto bed and pastry sheet.
  • Make your mushroom duxelles. Saute half a pound of minced shallots in 6 T butter then add 1 lb finely chopped mushrooms and thyme, saute, deglaze with sherry wine as necessary, cook until pan is dry, add minced parsley, season and set aside.
  • Add flour and butter to a counter top mixer and using a paddle, combine on lowest speed until the butter is turned into crumbs and all the flour is Incorporated. Pour in your ice water and mix until combined. Place dough onto the counter and form into a ball then flatten/ wrap with plastic wrap and chill.

New Year's Eve Recipes That Cover All The Bases

The Food Charlatan

Savory Parmesan French Toast With Hollandaise Sauce

We’re noticing that Parmesan cheese is a recurring ingredient on this list, but we’re obviously okay with it. Take this savory French toast, for example. This New Year's Eve dinner recipe is breakfast for supper, only better. (via The Food Charlatan)

Recipe Tin Eats

Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Sauce

Instead of just drinking red wine, you can cook your meat in it too. Serve these shanks on top of mashed potatoes and you have yourself a meal fit for your finest guests. (via Recipe Tin Eats)

The Almond Eater

Mushroom and White Truffle Mac and Cheese

This dish isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s the most grown-up of the grown-up macaroni and cheeses out there. If you love noshing on truffle fries, then this New Year's menu idea is right up your alley. (via The Almond Eater)

Life As A Strawberry

Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

We’re mixing up New Years' party food and adding gnocchi with this recipe. It’s warm, delectable, and makes for a comforting winter dish. Everyone craves a cheesy, cream-based meal when it’s cold, so they might as well get it at your NYE dinner party. (via Life As a Strawberry)

Yummy Healthy Easy

Pasta With Light Avocado Cream Sauce

Don’t be fooled by the green — these aren’t zoodles, although those would make a great dish for New Year's Eve too. These noodles get their pretty green color from being tossed in avocados and creamy spinach. (via Yummy Healthy Easy)

Recipe Runner

Pear, Prosciutto, and Gorgonzola Pizza

This pizza brings together a whole lot of flavors we love and want more of. It’s salty and sweet perfection for dinner. The best part? It’s loaded with Gouda, mozzarella, and Gorgonzola. (via Recipe Runner)

Cafe Delites

Smoked Salmon and Avocado Pizza

Everyone will want to grab a slice of this pie (or the whole thing). If you weren’t sold at avocado, the “sauce” is made up of cream cheese, dill, and garlic, then melted together with grated mozzarella. (via Cafe Delites)

A Pleasant Little Kitchen

Instant Pot Lamb Chops With Creamed Cauliflower

If you got an Instant Pot for Christmas, this recipe will have you putting it to good use by making these tender and herbaceous lamb chops served over creamy puréed cauliflower. (via A Pleasant Little Kitchen)

This innovative take on ravioli includes a velvety butternut filling, crunchy walnuts, roasted cauliflower, and browned butter.

Jelly Toast

Barramundi en Papillote

Flaky barramundi is steamed in parchment alongside Meyer lemons, ginger, bell peppers, and butter for a meal that promises big flavor and little clean-up. (via Jelly Toast)

Jo Cooks

Apple Bacon and Blue Cheese-Stuffed Pork Chops

There truly is no better way to enjoy a pork chop than when it’s stuffed to the max with a mouthwatering medley of sweet apples, tangy blue cheese, and salty bacon. (via Jo Cooks)

Pinch of Yum

Instant Pot Korean Beef Tacos

Everyone loves tacos, so feeding your pals these tender and juicy Korean beef tacos topped with fresh cilantro, kimchi, peanuts, and Sriracha mayo is a surefire way to win at hosting. (via Pinch of Yum)

Rasa Malaysia

Garlic Butter Scallops With Lemon Sauce

Scallops will win over the heart of any dinner guest — especially when they’re pan-seared to golden perfection in buttery garlicky goodness. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Half Baked Harvest

Crockpot Coq au Vin Meatballs

Make these easy herb-seasoned parmesan chicken meatballs cooked in wine with vegetables, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs for a warm and flavorful holiday meal. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Folks & Foliage

Arayes With Cheese

These crispy arayes feature a flavorful ground meat mixture and shredded cheese stuffed into pita bread then grilled to crispy, juicy perfection. (via Forks & Foliage)

Feel Good Foodie

Pomegranate Roasted Chicken Thighs

This easy chicken recipe has an intense sweet and sour flavor similar to balsamic. The pomegranate roasted chicken thighs are made with a flavorful marinade using pomegranate molasses. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Feel Good Foodie

Cheese Stuffed Shells

For an easy and delicious vegetarian dish, these cheese stuffed shells are made with three types of cheese, ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan, baked with a marinara sauce, and served with fresh basil. !(via Feel Good Foodie)

Salt & Lavender

One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage

This meal only takes 30 minutes but looks and tastes like you've spent all day in the kitchen. (via Salt & Lavender)

Maggie Bakes Grace

Vegan Creamy Lemon Pasta

Even if not everyone is vegan, this lemon pasta will please a crowd. The secret ingredient? Hummus! (via Maggie Bakes Grace)

Munching With Mariyah

Aloo Gobi is one of the easiest curries to whip up and made with cauliflower, potatoes and spices you likely already have in your pantry..(via Munching With Mariyah)

Rach L Mansfield

No-Boil Broccoli Rabe + Sausage Baked Pasta

This oven-baked pasta is one of the most satisfying for a winter holiday meal. (via Rach L Mansfield)

Nareen's Eats

Seared Scallops in Roasted Vegetable Puree

Keep it simple yet elegant with seared scallops and vegetable puree, perfect for a fancy night dish. (via Nareen's Eats)

Allosimone

Coconut Dal

NYE is a great time to try something new like this coconut dal dish with comforting lentils. Serve over rice with warm bread or naan. (via allosimone)

Chef Bai

BAJA NO-FISH TACOS

Oyster mushrooms and cashew cream make these vegan tacos as delicious as the fish-based.(via Chef Bai)

Two Spoons

Vegan Shepherd's Pie

Go for this cozy classic with a vegan and gluten-free twist made with a brothy lentil base and fluffy mashed potato topping. (via Two Spoons)

Live Eat Learn

Truffle Pizza

You can never go wrong with truffle oil and pizza to please a crowd. (via Live Eat Learn)

Cilantro Parsley

ITALIAN MAHI MAHI WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE

Mahi mahi, butter, garlic, white wine, lemon, capers, and parsley served over rice or pasta sounds like a perfect NYE meal to us! (via Cilantro Parsley)

Want more easy New Year's Eve dinner recipes? Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter for some extra inspo!

This post has been updated. (Additional reporting by Dana Sandonato, Chloe Williams and Theresa Gonzalez)

2024 was so tough that I almost thought I didn't accomplish any of my goals. But revisiting the beginning of my 2024 planner and gratitude journal showed me that I actually did a lot of what I intended to. However, I really want to be more intentional about my self-improvement this year — especially as I navigate the loss I've faced throughout this year.

In true book lover fashion, I have 20 books I've added to my TBR pile to help me think about how I want to be a better person aside from achieving career goals this year. They're the most personal book picks I've shared all year because I know I'm not the only one who wants to live differently in 2025.

TW: Two books about healing after pregnancy loss are featured.

Scroll to find the most inspiring self-improvement books to help you have the life you deserve and want in 2025!

1. Don't Overthink It by Anne Bogel

I know some of us are worried about politics, reproductive health, inflation, and other troubling things. But, we're not going to help anyone, especially ourselves, if we're consistently frozen by worst-case scenario thoughts. IMO, Don't Overthink It should be read immediately after Amanda Montell's The Age of Magical Overthinking because it's another needed reminder to stop hurting our brains.

She shares essential tools to help us rewire our thoughts so we're not completely consumed by 'doom-thinking,' which I think a lot of us need. Her ultimate goal? Helping us enjoy the time we're alive.

Amazon

2. The Worst Girl Gang Ever by Bex Gunn & Laura Buckingham

Speaking of reproductive health, this doesn't immediately seem like a self-improvement book — except it is. II don't know how many other women experienced a miscarriage this year, but I know I'm not the only one.

Though the title seems like a funny dig at something that doesn't feel hilarious, it's more than that. The Worst Girl Gang Ever does an amazing job of naming the confusing period that follows pregnancy loss and how lonely it can feel. It's not that other people haven't experienced it, but it operates like an 'invisible' pain.

Authors Bex Gunn and Laura Buckingham know that this is a gang no one would willingly sign up for, but they hold space for every emotion that surfaces. Most importantly, The Worst Girl Gang Ever is a reminder that this isn't something to feel ashamed about. That it's more common than people realize and it's possible to heal from.

Amazon

3. All the Love by Kim Hooper, Meredith Resnick, LCSW, AND Huong Diep, PsyD

In case you're in need of more guidance after dealing with pregnancy loss, All the Love shares the losses author Kim Hooper experienced. With the help of licensed social worker Meredith Resnick, LCSW, and board-certified psychologist Dr. Huong Diep, PsyD, you'll find a thorough explanation of the different types of miscarriages. There's also a deep dive into the emotions and fears that may arise depending on how you felt when you first received a positive pregnancy test.

Amazon

4. Feel-Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal

Dr. Ali Abdaal wants to change how you think about being hustle culture. Being productive does involve work, but there's more to it than that. Simply put, Dr. Abdaal's discovered that you produce better results when you "feel good." You'll find information on:

  • Hidden 'energizers' that make it hard for you to be productive
  • 'Blockers' that encourage procrastination
  • 'Sustainers' that side step burnout and lead to a more fulfilling life

5. How to Stop Breaking Your Own Heart by Meggan Roxanne

Is your mind swirling from all the different messages that tell you you're supposed to be achieving multiple things at the same time? We're in the same boat then. But, what if we didn't have to feel so stressed? As someone who's struggled with her mental health, Meggan Roxanne knows what it's like to feel weighed down by life and society's demands.
In How to Stop Breaking Your Own Heart, you'll learn how to:
  • Stop letting your expectations run the show
  • Create tangible boundaries
  • Quit silencing your voice
  • Walk into a season where self-love is the norm

Amazon

6. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Mel Robbins wants you to embrace two words in your life: "Let them." According to her, most of our problems stem from being worried about what everyone else thinks. You could be a people-pleaser or someone who thinks they need consistent praise to know they're on the right path.
The Let Them Theory will encourage you to change your perspective about what makes you feel joyful across 8 focus areas. By the end of the book, you'll be wondering why it's taken you so long to revamp your mindset.

Amazon

7. How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economyby Jenny Odell

If you're tired of feeling like you're over-performing, Jenny Odell wrote How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy for people like us. It's meant to help us change our approach to everything from politics to the greater world we live in. But, don't think it's just an anti-capitalist manifesto. It's more about teaching us how to focus on things that aren't rooted in anything that feels distracting.

Amazon

8. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

Creative unite! It's about time we think about our processes if we have them. But first, Elizabeth Gilbert wants us to spend time being inspired again, beginning with feeding our curious nature. However, this isn't just about creating art.
Gilbert wants us to live big, juicy lives that feel good and if that sounds delulu as we head into 2025, I'm not sure she'd bat an eye before telling us that's how it's supposed to feel.

Amazon

9. Love Life: How to Raise Your Standards, Find Your Person, and Live Happily (No Matter What) by Matthew Hussey

2025's the year you're ready to let go of limiting beliefs about romantic love so you can start dating intentionally, or something like that. Listen, I still believe in the beauty of it so I'm all for this being one of your goals in 2025. To help you get on the right track, I'm recommending Love Life: How to Raise Your Standards, Find Your Person, and Live Happily (No Matter What).
You're going to break up with your tendency to self-sabotage because you want to ruin things before the other person does. You're also going to learn how not to give too much to a person while leaving nothing for yourself. Sound familiar?
Hussey knows, but has all the tools you need to tidy up your love life (and habits).

Amazon

10. Get Your Sh*t Together by Sarah Knight

This books leaves nothing to your imagination because it's very straight forward. No matter how good of a person you think you are, there's probably a few habits you could stand to change. For some of us, our FOMO even though we keep RSVP'ing 'no' to events or parties is part of our problem. For others, it's knowing your social media account isn't going to grow just because you keep looking at it.

Sarah Knight wrote Get Your Sh*t Together as a way to help you clear some things out of your mind. You'll learn how to organize (not compartmentalize) things so you stop making self-depreciating jokes about your procrastination habits. She also has neat tips about reaching the money goals you've yet to accomplish...*sigh.*

P.S. The last sentence was actually directed towards me.

Amazon

11. The Happy Me Project by Holly Matthews

Guess what? Self-improvement isn't just reserved for influencers on the internet who seem to know just what to say. Holly Matthews wants you to know you can work on yourself in order to shape your life the way you want.

After losing her husband to brain cancer, she had to figure out how to raise two daughters while also taking care of herself. Once she learned how to do so, she decided to share her findings with readers in The Happy Me Project.

Think of it as a love letter from a friend who's experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows.

Amazon

12. The Self-Love Experiment by Shannon Kaiser

Is it possible to be 100% selfish? Sure, but not if we're prioritizing our mental health or looking to improve areas of our lives. Before we do any of these things, Shannon Kaiser says it's imperative that we focus on loving ourselves first. This means it's time to let of limiting beliefs about mistakes we've made and trauma we've experienced.
Any thought that makes us believe we're incapable of living a life we love while loving ourselves will be challenged as we read The Self-Love Experiment.

Amazon

13. Own Your Glow by Latham Thomas

Latham Thomas is a wellness and lifestyle guru who makes it her mission to help others live lives that feel beautiful to them. She shares real examples of women who have felt stuck in their lives and offers ways for people to move through certain blockages as a result. Some of these tips include do include lifestyle changes (yes), but that's necessary when we want to part ways with old habits.
My sister gave this book to me as a birthday gift when I was in my 20s and I always refer back to it when I need help moving through something difficult in my life.

Amazon

14. Emotional Detoxby Sherianna Boyle, MED, CAGS

We've all experienced food detoxes in our lives, but when have we engaged with something like Emotional Detox before? Wellness expert Sherianna Boyle, MED, CAGS is challenging us to to check in with ourselves emotionally and mentally because she's sure it's been a while since we've done it.
Even though we don't like to think about it, it's impossible that we can say and do toxic things when we're not allowing ourselves to process how we feel about something. It doesn't mean we're 'bad' people, but unchecked emotions can lead to a lot of unchecked movement in other areas of lives.
With her C.L.E.A.N.S.E. method, Boyle teaches it's possible to reset ourselves so we can feel at ease:
  • "Clear your pathways"
  • "Look inward"
  • "Emit positivity"
  • "Activate"
  • "Nourish"
  • "Surrender"
  • "Ease your way into your best self"

Amazon

15. Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap

Did you think it's time for us to stop talking about finances? More than ever, we need to confront our relationship with money and see what's causing us to make decisions that take more money out of our pockets. As a fan of #treatyourself culture, even I know it can be rooted in something deeper than wanting to reward ourselves.
What Financial Feminist does is speak a language that doesn't punish us for wanting to have nice things. Instead, Tori Dunlap talks about how creating a budget for bills, paying back debt (hi student loans), savings, and things that bring you pleasure are essential for living life to the fullest.

Amazon

16. Democracy in Retrograde by Sami Sage and Emily Amick

I usually shy away from talking about politics, but I'm not interested in the social awkwardness and repeat of 2016. Democracy in Retrograde challenges us to confront our uncomfortable feelings about being bombarded with divisiveness and a general lack of distrust in just about everything.
Lawyer Emily Amick and Betches cofounder Sami Sage don't want us to crawl under our beds so we can hide from the world. Instead, they want to equip us with tools to form real communities that can help better this country. In order to do that, we have to start reading and educating ourselves instead of solely relying on the media to tell us how to feel.This sounds rich coming from a journalist, but I spent enough time with grandparents who were easily swayed by the news to know how it can affect people's rational and comprehension skills.
Self-improvement is amazing, but it doesn't always have to be about learning how to love yourself. Sometimes it involves learning more about the country you live in so you can be armed with knowledge when the powers that be try to make you feel like you're another uneducated citizen.

Amazon

17. It's Not Hysteria by Karen Tang, MD, MPH

Am I really including another book about reproductive health? I am because having a miscarriage made me realize some people have reduced having a uterus to whether someone is giving birth or not. While one does include ovaries filled with eggs, there's so many other things that occur. For example, there's things like PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, cysts, and more that can affect a woman's health that people still aren't fully aware of.
Dr. Karen Tang, MD, MPH wants to help change the conversation so that people are more aware of how their bodies work. Also, she willing to shed light on how why pelvic challenges occur and how they can be treated.

Amazon

18. Glow in the F---ing Darkby Tara Schuster

Tara Schuster knows what it's like to fall apart and hit rock bottom because she's done it several times in her life. From having a tough childhood to losing the job she let define who she is, she's been through a lot. It wasn't until she had an "ah ha" moment during the pandemic that she decided to take back control of her life, so she wrote Glow in the F---ng Dark.
It's full of encouraging tips about allowing ourselves to heal from painful moments so we can go on to embrace the life we deserve to live. Unlike other self-improvement books, this one reads like something your bestie is willing to drop in your groupchat when she has wisdom to share.

Amazon

19. Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given

Doesn't the title make you think about your favorite comfort meal? It might just be me since I'm writing this instead of eating breakfast, but I digress. There's something beautiful about a book that encourages women to live audaciously in a world that loves to try to silence our voices.
Within these pages, Florence Given walks through everything from shame to self-objectification to help us see ourselves clearly. If you ask me, we could use a lot of clear views of ourselves so we can stop succumbing to programming that wants to keep us mindless or insecure.

Amazon

20. Slowing Down to the Speed of Joy by Matthew Kelly

Matthew Kelly was just like us — always hustling and bustling to the next thing. It'd become second nature because we live in a world where everyone's busy. But everything changed for Kelly one day and he decided, "No more."
He shares his own experiences with being on the go so much and how it affected the quality of his life, but he also includes how we can break up with this unhealthy cycle.
It's not that you can't be productive in life, but he's more concerned about you focusing on one thing at a time so you don't experience life-altering burnout.

If you need more tips about how to ease into 2025, we have 25 deep questions you can ask yourself before planning your goals.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Anyone else load up on all the carbs this holiday season? While the season calls for indulging in the best way, I never feel my best after days of consuming heavy carbs and refined sugars like lasagna, mac & cheese, holiday cookies and cakes. Now that the holiday season is fading away, now is the perfect time to make this ridiculously easy gut-healing bone broth soup recipe. This brothy soup is packed with nutrients: bone broth is rich in collagen, minerals, and amino acids that support gut lining repair; vegetables are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants for overall health; garlic is a natural prebiotic to feed healthy gut bacteria; and spinach is high in magnesium and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Make this nutritious and versatile soup as part of your 2025 wellness routine and nourish your body.

Here are delicious ideas for elevating this simple bone broth soup too!

Shutterstock

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups bone broth (chicken or beef)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 small cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for sautéing)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Leftover rotisserie chicken, optional

Photo by Jason Briscoe on Unsplash

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
  • A squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness
  • A pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Peeled and chopped sweet potatoes for more fiber, which can help promote healthy gut bacteria
  • Swap organic kale or chard for spinach leaves if preferred

Shutterstock

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat avocado oil over medium heat (optional). Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Add the sliced carrots, cauliflower florets, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the cauliflower to lightly soften and release its flavor.
  3. Pour in the bone broth, add the diced cucumber, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and flavors to meld.
  4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking so that they wilt but remain vibrant.
  5. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

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You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.