Beyond Resolutions: How to Build Momentum Before the New Year

Beyond Resolutions: How to Build Momentum Before the New Year

Why December Matters

There’s something special about this time of year. The pace might be hectic with holiday plans, but it’s also a natural period of reflection. December gives us a unique opportunity to pause, reset, and recalibrate.

When you start building habits now, you’re creating momentum that carries into January. It’s like getting a running start—you’re already in motion when the ball drops. Plus, focusing on progress rather than perfection helps you avoid the “all-or-nothing” mindset that often derails January resolutions.

Step 1: Prioritize Nutrition

Let’s be honest—December can feel like a minefield of indulgence. Between holiday parties, rich foods, and endless treats, it’s easy to feel off-balance. But here’s the thing: prioritizing nutrition during this time doesn’t mean skipping the holiday treats or saying no to festive cocktails. It’s about finding balance and making mindful choices that leave you feeling energized, not sluggish.

One of my favorite ways to stay on track is by keeping a few go-to, nutrient-dense options on hand—especially on busy days. That’s where this weeks sponsor, Huel, comes in. It’s a complete food packed with all the essential nutrients your body needs, including 40g of protein and 27 essential vitamins per serving. Quick, convenient, and sustainable, it’s perfect for fueling your body when time is tight.

For me, having a Huel shake for breakfast before my runs during the holiday hustle means I can enjoy holiday treats without overindulging. It’s an easy way to stay balanced and keep my energy up without overthinking it.

When I was living in the U.S. around this time of year, I also loved using Sakara meals and wellness products to keep my diet balanced and maintain healthier eating habits into the new year. For U.S. readers, you can use code WELLNESSBUMSAKARA for 20% off at Sakara.com.

Step 2: Start Small with Mindfulness

The holidays can feel like a whirlwind, so finding even five minutes to center yourself can make a world of difference. Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean sitting cross-legged on a cushion for hours. It can be as simple as pausing between tasks to take a few deep breaths, reflecting on one thing you’re grateful for each day, or going on a walk without listening to podcast or music and simply focusing on the present moment and environment.

Journaling is another great way to check in with yourself. Use these prompts to get started:

• What is one habit I can start now to make 2025 better?

• What’s something I want to let go of before the new year?

• How do I want to feel in January, and what small step can I take today to get there?

Starting a mindfulness practice now helps you move into the new year with clarity and focus. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about creating space to slow down and connect with what matters most.

Inspirational reading on Wellness Bum:

• Monthly Intentions: Setting for a Happier, Healthier Life"

• Five Minute Journal Review: A Happier You In 5 Minutes A Day

• 8 Simple Ways To Manifest Your Dreams With Journaling & Visualization

• How EEG Technology in Choose Muse Meditation Headband Helps Enhance Mindfulness Practices

Step 3: Move Your Body, Your Way

Here’s the thing about fitness in December: it doesn’t have to be about burning off cookies or “earning” holiday meals. It’s about moving your body in ways that feel good and keep you energized.

If you’ve been meaning to start a fitness habit, this is the perfect time. No need to wait for January—just start small. Commit to a 15-minute walk, try a new yoga flow, or hit the gym once a week. The key is consistency, not intensity.

For me, running has been my go-to this month. Training for my next half marathon in the middle of the holiday season has been challenging, but it’s also kept me grounded. Movement is a form of self-care, and it’s a gift you give yourself.

Extra reading on Wellness Bum to get you moving:

• Project 50 Challenge: You Will Be Unrecognizable If You Do This For 50 Days

• Megaformer Workouts: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Class

• 9 Yoga Benefits That’ll Have You Unrolling Your Mat ASAP

• How to Become a Runner: 5 Rules to Make it Stick This New Year’s

Make It Manageable

Building momentum isn’t about overhauling your life in December. It’s about choosing one or two small habits and sticking with them. Here’s a quick recap:

1. Fuel your body with balanced nutrition (hello, Huel!).

2. Take 5 minutes for mindfulness every day.

3. Commit to moving your body in a way that feels good.

These small shifts can have a big impact, and they’ll give you a head start on your goals for 2025. To help you level up even more, here are five actionable shifts to focus on in the next two weeks:

1. Upgrade Your Morning Routine

How you start your day sets the tone for everything else. Create a simple, energizing morning routine that works for you.

• Enjoy a nutritious breakfast that fuels your body for the day ahead.

• Take five minutes to set an intention for the day—whether it’s to stay calm during holiday stress or to focus on gratitude.

2. Set Weekly Micro-Goals

Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them into micro-goals. Each week, choose one area of your life to improve.

• Example: Commit to drinking an extra glass of water each day or walking 10 minutes after lunch.

• Use a habit tracker to celebrate these small wins and build confidence as you go.

3. Declutter Your Space

A clear space = a clear mind. Take a few minutes each day to tidy up one area of your home or workspace. Organizing Digital Spaces: Cleaning up digital clutter, such as organizing files, clearing email inboxes, and updating software, helps individuals feel more organized and prepared for the New Year.

• Focus on high-impact zones like your desk, kitchen counters, or bedroom.

• Cleaning up digital clutter, such as organizing files, clearing email inboxes, and updating software, helps feel more organized and prepared for the New Year.

• Bonus: This creates mental space for those January goals you’ll crush.

4. Establish a Tech-Free Zone

It’s time to give your mind a break. Designate at least one tech-free zone or time in your day.

• Start with 30 minutes before bed. Instead of scrolling, wind down with a book, meditation, or journaling.

• Use this quiet time to reflect on what’s working and what you want to adjust before 2025.

5. Reconnect with What Matters

The holiday season is a great time to realign with your values and priorities. Take time to reflect on the why behind your goals.

• Schedule a coffee date or a phone call with someone who inspires you. Share your ideas and let them fuel your motivation.

• Reflect on what made you happiest in 2024 and how you can bring more of that into your life next year.

These shifts don’t require major life overhauls—but they create momentum that will carry you into January with clarity, energy, and focus. Pick one or two to try this week, and watch how these small changes level up your life.

Your Breakfast Is Holding You Back

Coffee alone isn’t breakfast.

For lasting energy, peak performance, and real health benefits, your body needs more than just empty calories. That’s where Huel Black Edition steps in. Packed with 40g of protein and 27 essential vitamins, it’s the ultimate high-protein meal, ready in just 30 seconds.

Start fueling your day the right way. Use code BEHUEL15 for 15% off your first order, plus a FREE t-shirt and shaker.

Upgrade Your Breakfast Today

Your End of December Challenge

Let’s end 2024 with intention. This week, choose one habit to start now—whether it’s swapping your coffee-only breakfast for something protein-packed and nourishing, taking a mindful pause each day, or adding movement to your daily routine. Small shifts create massive impact in the big picture of your goals.

And if you’re looking for an easy way to prioritize nutrition, give Huel a try. It’s a no-fuss solution for staying fueled and focused, even on your busiest days. Plus, you can use code BEHUEL15 for 15% off your first order, along with a free t-shirt and shaker.