My #1 Tip to Make Real Progress Before the Year’s End
As the year winds down and the holiday season kicks into high gear, many of us feel the pull between enjoying the festivities and staying on track with our health goals. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to wait until January to start making progress. The secret? A simple, realistic plan tailored to your unique schedule.
Why a Daily Plan Matters
Life doesn’t look the same every day. Between work, family obligations, social events, and holiday gatherings, it’s easy to fall into the trap of “winging it.” But here’s the problem with that approach:
• Mindless habits creep in: Grabbing convenience foods or skipping meals entirely.
• Blood sugar highs and lows: Leading to fatigue, cravings, and poor decisions.
• Skipped workouts: Too busy or tired to squeeze one in.
• Emotional eating: Using food as a way to cope with stress.
• Late nights: Sacrificing sleep for “just one more thing.”
A rigid plan can feel overwhelming and unsustainable, but an adaptable daily plan keeps you consistent—even during the busiest weeks of the year.
How to Create a Simple, Realistic Plan
Every evening, take just a few minutes to set intentions for:
1. Sleep: What time will you wind down and aim to go to bed?
2. Meals & Snacks: What balanced options fit your schedule?
3. Hydration: How will you stay hydrated throughout the day?
4. Movement: What type of activity works for your time frames?
By preparing for the day ahead, you’re setting yourself up for success, even if the day throws you a curveball.
Sample Daily Plan
Here’s an example of what an intentional day might look like:
• Wake: 6:00 am
• Workout: 30 minutes of weight training
• Breakfast: Greek yogurt, blueberries, almond slivers + coffee with collagen
• Lunch: 2 eggs, chicken sausage, Ezekiel toast with mashed avocado + sea salt
• Snack: Apple + peanut butter
• Dinner: Chicken salad with greens, avocado, sunflower seeds, tomatoes, blue cheese, green onion, green goddess dressing + 2 squares of dark chocolate
• Water: 80 oz throughout the day
• Evening Movement: 15-minute outdoor walk
• Sleep: 10:00 pm
Planning for Holiday Gatherings
Worried about how this fits into the holiday season? Good news—it works here too! You don’t have to choose between enjoying the festivities and maintaining your goals.
Here’s how to adapt your plan for holiday events:
• Start Strong: Prioritize a high-protein breakfast to balance your blood sugar.
• Move Your Body: Fit in a walk or quick workout, even if it’s just 10-20 minutes.
• Hydrate: Aim to drink plenty of water before and during events.
• Set Intentions: Decide ahead of time how you’ll approach food and drinks.
This approach lets you savor your favorite holiday treats without overindulging. You’ll feel more energized, present, and confident—no guilt required.
Prove It to Yourself
The holidays don’t have to derail your progress. By prioritizing wellness with a plan that works for you, you’ll not only feel great now but also step into the new year without needing to “reset” or make extreme resolutions.
Ready for Personalized Support?
Need help creating a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and goals? I’m here to help! My 1:1 health coaching program can support you through the holidays and into the new year, feeling your best.
