As we approached the new year, I saw a few jokes about how it was now time to buy the annual notebook that would change your life. Now, as the calendar turns to February, I see posts suggesting that many people have already abandoned their planners—and their goals—for the year. It’s easy to conclude that planning doesn’t work and that you might as well give up on the life you desire. Here’s the good news: you can start working toward good mental health just as effectively in February, April, July, or even December as you can in January.