The January Reset

There's a specific feeling to the first few weeks of January. The holidays are behind us, the resolutions are written and that familiar "back to work" feeling is starting to settle in.

While the New Zealand summer is still in full swing, our focus naturally starts to shift back to the year ahead.

Shedding the "Holiday Scruff"

We all love the relaxed version of ourselves that emerges over Christmas. The slightly longer hair, the "I'll shave tomorrow" beard and the sun-and-salt texture. But "Holiday You" and "Work You" may have different requirements.

A professional clean-up is the ultimate bridge between the two. It's not about losing the summer vibe; it's about refining it. Sharpening those edges and clearing away the holiday weight tells your brain and your colleagues that you're back and ready for business.

The Great Cabinet Refresh

One of the easiest New Year's resolutions to keep is a quick audit of your grooming shelf. We often hold onto half-empty bottles that don't actually work for us.

• The Audit: Take 10 minutes this weekend to toss the "impulse buys" from the supermarket. If it doesn't make you look or feel better, it's taking up mental space.
• The Upgrade: Replace the clutter with a simple, high-quality system. A dedicated shampoo, conditioner and one reliable styling product are all you need to make your morning routine effortless.

Back to the Office

The return to the office can be a shock to the system. You can make the transition smoother by taking the guesswork out of your morning.

• Beat the humidity: January heat can turn a good hair day into a frizz-fest by noon. Using a matte powder or a high-hold pomade like The Bowery Holdfast keeps your hair structured even when the NZ humidity is at its peak.
• The "zoom" check: In an era of high-def video calls, the details matter. A tidy neckline and well-groomed facial hair ensure you look professional even if you're still working from the bach.
• The clean shave: If you've been rocking a holiday beard, now is the time to decide: keep it or shave it off? If you're ready for a clean slate, take advantage of our Shave Free offer. Grab our Premium Razor Handle for just $16 and we'll give you a fresh pack of lade refills for free with every single you get at any BarberShopCo store (excludes kid's cuts). It's an ongoing bonus designed to keep your at-home shave as sharp as your in-store cut.

The Power of Routine

Resolutions are hard to keep, but habits are easy to maintain. The most successful men we see aren't the ones who get a "transformation" cut once a year - they're the ones who stay consistent. Focus on building small, effective habits that stick.

• The 5-minute rule: If your morning routine takes more than five minutes, you won't stick to it. Focus on efficiency: a sharp fade, a quick styling product application and a face moisturiser are all you need to look excellent in under five minutes.
• Small wins, big impact: Start with small, non-negotiable daily habits (like applying SPF every morning). Success in one area - like feeling confident about your look, creates momentum for success in others.

Start Your 2026 Strong

A great year doesn't happen by accident - it's built on the small, daily habits that keep you looking and feeling your best.

Start the year with the ultimate foundation for success. Join the queue via the Q App or visit your local store for your next cut.