Hello! It’s time to get going with our Jump Start January month, where we’ll be trying something new every day to improve our wealth, health or happiness. Most of the things to try will be completely free, and everything else will be optional and mostly low cost.

Weekly schedule for the month

• Week 1: Boost your happiness levels
• Week 2: Get organised and declutter
• Week 3: Tenner Week £10 budgeting challenge
• Week 4: Debt busters & savings

This week’s schedule

As promised, this first week is about free and very cheap ways we can all boost our happiness levels. These are mostly simple, easy things we can all do, but sometimes we forget or fail to get around to doing them. Different things work for different people, but give it all a go and I’m sure you’ll find something that boosts your mood and makes you feel more cheerful or content.

• Day 1: Let there be light (see below)
• Day 2: Creature comforts
• Day 3: Get some exercise
• Day 4: Look at the little things
• Day 5: Make a difference
• Day 6: Pamper yourself
• Day 7: Keep up with your social life

If you miss any of the activities, don’t worry. They’re all pretty quick to do so you can catch up the following day, or do the whole lot at the weekend.

Because it’s the first of January, I know a few of you might have been partying away last night so today’s activity is very gentle and it’s meant to ease you gently into the Jump Start…

Today, all you have to do is go outside for at least 20 minutes to get some daylight. Ideally, do this at some point between 11am and 2pm, when the winter sunlight will be stronger. If you can manage something energetic, have a reasonably brisk walk while you’re at it. Blow away the cobwebs!

Why is this activity on the list? Many people say that they feel better during the darker months if they get a dose of natural light every day. It’s completely free, and it’s definitely worth a try, especially if you feel sluggish in the winter. It should work even if it’s cloudy or drizzling too, because some rays of light will still get through.

How are you feeling today? How else will you boost your mood and wellbeing this week?