Instead of waiting for the first day of the new year to overhaul your habits, why not start easing into your goals now? By beginning on the first day of December, you give yourself the gift of a gradual transition. You build momentum, refine your strategies, and set yourself up for success—without the harsh shock of an abrupt lifestyle change. Here’s how and why this slow jumpstart approach works, and how to make the most of it.
Why December Is the Perfect Time to Start
- The Pressure Is Off December carries a festive, forgiving energy. It’s a time when we’re naturally reflecting on the past year, yet there’s less of the “all-or-nothing” mindset that comes with New Year’s resolutions. Starting now means you’re not burdened by the weight of perfection. You have space to experiment, adjust, and ease into new routines.
- You Build Realistic Habits Jumping into a massive life change on January 1st often feels like trying to sprint a marathon. By starting in December, you can focus on small, actionable steps that build toward your goals. For example, instead of vowing to go to the gym five days a week starting January 1st, you might commit to incorporating one or two short workouts a week this month. By the time January arrives, you’ll already have established a habit that feels natural.
- You Create Momentum Motivation peaks at the start of a new year but can quickly fade without preparation. By starting in December, you’re not relying solely on the adrenaline of a “fresh start.” Instead, you’re building steady momentum, which helps your goals feel achievable and sustainable.
- You Get a Head Start Think of it this way: Starting in December gives you a month of progress before the new year even begins. By the time others are just starting their resolutions, you’re already ahead of the game, and that confidence can be a powerful motivator to keep going.
How to Start Your Goals in December
- Reflect on the Past Year Take time to think about what went well and what didn’t in the past year. What habits or routines served you? What areas could use improvement? Write these reflections down to help guide your goals. This practice ensures your goals are rooted in self-awareness rather than a fleeting desire for change.
- Set Intentions, Not Resolutions Resolutions often feel rigid and intimidating. Instead, set intentions—broad, flexible statements about what you want to achieve. For example, instead of saying, “I will lose __pounds by March,” try, “I want to prioritize my health and make choices that help me feel strong and energized.” This mindset shift allows for growth and adaptability.
- Break It Down Big goals are exciting but can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller, specific, and manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to save more money, start by tracking your spending in December. Then, set a realistic savings target for January and beyond.
- Focus on One or Two Areas It’s easy to want to change everything at once—health, career, relationships, finances—but spreading yourself too thin can lead to burnout. Pick one or two areas of focus and commit to small changes in those areas. Once you’ve established those habits, you can gradually expand to other goals.
- Start Small and Build Consistency is more important than intensity when it comes to forming habits. If your goal is to exercise more, start with a 10-minute walk a few days a week. If your goal is to eat healthier, incorporate one extra serving of vegetables per day. These small steps create a foundation for bigger changes.
Examples of December Jumpstart Goals
- Health and Fitness:
- Add one healthy meal or snack to your day.
- Start with two short workouts per week.
- Focus on drinking more water daily.
- Financial Wellness:
- Track your spending for the month of December.
- Set a small savings goal for holiday expenses.
- Research budgeting tools or apps to start using in January.
- Personal Development:
- Begin a daily gratitude practice by writing down three things you’re thankful for each day.
- Spend 10 minutes a day reading or learning something new.
- Schedule 30 minutes a week for self-care activities.
- Relationships:
- Reach out to one friend or family member you haven’t connected with recently.
- Set aside time for a weekly coffee date or phone call with a loved one.
- Practice active listening and gratitude in your interactions.
Overcoming Common Challenges
- Staying Motivated During the Holidays The holidays are busy, and it’s easy to let your goals slip. Remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal. If you miss a day or two, don’t give up—just pick back up where you left off.
- Balancing Goals with Festivities Incorporate your goals into the holiday season. For example, if you’re focusing on health, make mindful choices at holiday meals without depriving yourself. If you’re prioritizing relationships, use holiday gatherings as an opportunity to connect meaningfully.
- Avoiding the All-or-Nothing Trap Starting in December isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about building momentum. Celebrate small wins and recognize that even incremental progress is valuable.
The Power of Starting Now
Starting your goals in December allows you to approach the new year with confidence and clarity. By the time January arrives, you’ll already have a sense of what works and what doesn’t, making it easier to stick to your intentions. This proactive approach transforms the often harsh transition into a smooth, empowering journey.
The beauty of starting early is that you’re giving yourself permission to grow gradually. There’s no need to flip a switch on January 1st and expect overnight change. Instead, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success by building habits that truly stick.
So why wait? Take a moment today to reflect, plan, and take that first small step toward your goals. December is here, and with it comes the opportunity to start fresh—at your own pace. Let this month be your launchpad for a fulfilling, balanced, and purpose-driven new year.
