10 Rituals to Do for a Lucky New Year

A new year doesn’t just arrive—it needs to be welcomed properly.

Across cultures (and group chats), people have sworn by small rituals that promise luck, abundance, love, and fewer bad decisions in the months ahead.

Are these rituals scientifically proven? No. Do people continue doing them anyway because they feel right? Absolutely.

Here are 10 rituals to help you start the year on the universe’s good side:

1. Clean Your Space Before Midnight

Nothing says “I’m ready for abundance” like not dragging last year’s mess into the new one. Cleaning before New Year’s isn’t just practical—it’s symbolic.

You’re clearing stagnant energy, bad vibes, and that one drawer you refuse to acknowledge. Just don’t clean 之后 midnight—legend says you’ll sweep the luck right out.

2. Wear Something New

New clothes = new energy. Even if it’s just new socks or underwear (which, frankly, is enough), wearing something fresh signals renewal.

Many cultures swear by this for good fortune—and also for feeling slightly more put-together than you did all of December.

3. Eat for Prosperity

Certain foods carry big luck energy: lentils for wealth, grapes for abundance, fish for forward motion. Even if you don’t fully believe it, eating with intention sets the tone.

Worst case? You enjoyed a good meal. Best case? The universe takes notes.

4. Don’t Enter the New Year With an Empty Wallet

This one is serious. Carry cash, even if you don’t usually. An empty wallet at midnight symbolizes financial drought, and no one wants to manifest that.

Coins, bills—anything that says “money knows where to find me.”

5. Set an Intention (Not 47 Resolutions)

The universe prefers clarity. Pick one or two meaningful intentions instead of overwhelming yourself with unrealistic promises.

You’re not becoming a new person overnight—you’re just choosing a direction and letting the energy follow.

6. Open a Window at Midnight

Symbolically, this lets the old year leave and invites the new one in. Energetically refreshing, emotionally dramatic, and very satisfying.

Bonus points if there’s cold air—it makes it feel official.

7. Kiss Someone You Actually Like

Traditionally tied to love and connection, this ritual sets the tone for your romantic year. It doesn’t have to be romantic—just genuine.

No kissing someone out of obligation. That’s how chaos starts.

8. Write Down What You’re Leaving Behind

Old habits, situations, self-doubt—put it on paper. Writing it down helps you consciously release what no longer belongs in your next chapter.

Tear it up, burn it safely, or dramatically throw it away. Closure loves theatrics.

9. Speak Kindly About the Year Ahead

Words carry weight. Even joking about how “terrible” the new year will be sets the wrong tone. Speak as if good things are possible—even if you’re cautiously optimistic. The universe has excellent hearing.

10. Go to Sleep Grateful

End the night acknowledging something you’re thankful for—big or small. Gratitude grounds your energy and reminds you that luck isn’t just what arrives; it’s what you recognize.