‘Tis the season of saying “I’ll start January 1st,” and let’s be real—that one sentence has probably held us back more times than we’d like to admit. I’ll be the first to own up to it: for years, as soon as November ended, I’d push all my goals and dreams to the back burner because it was time to get cozy. And while I 100% believe this season is meant for slowing down, spending time with loved ones, and being kinder to ourselves, I used to take it as a cue to completely let go.

Cue December 31st—the infamous “get your life together in one day” moment. I’d scramble to create a vision board, plan an impossible schedule, overhaul my habits and routines, and convince myself that I’d wake up a whole new person on January 1st. Spoiler alert: it never worked, and deep down, I was still struggling.

Here’s the truth: these kinds of transformations take time—and that’s okay. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your dream life. The key isn’t in doing everything all at once, but in taking small, intentional steps every single day. I used to think change had to be dramatic and overnight, but I’ve learned that consistency trumps intensity every time.

So this year, instead of using December to hibernate and hit pause on everything we’ve been working towards, let’s flip the script. Let’s use this month to set ourselves up for the best January—and the best year—of our lives.

Why Consistency Beats Intensity Every Time

Let’s be honest: how many times have we gone full speed ahead on a goal only to burn out within weeks (or, let’s be real, days)? The “all or nothing” mindset can be so tempting, but it’s also the quickest way to set yourself up for failure.

Here’s the truth: glowing up isn’t about overhauling your entire life overnight. It’s about making small, consistent changes that compound over time. Think of it like watering a plant—it doesn’t need gallons of water all at once. It just needs a little bit, every day, to thrive.

When you prioritize consistency over intensity, you’re building habits that are sustainable and realistic. These little wins add up, creating momentum that pushes you closer to your goals without feeling overwhelming.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is your dream life. Habits aren’t about perfection—they’re about repetition. The more you practice, the more natural these habits will feel.

The key is patience. Expecting overnight results often leads to frustration and giving up too soon. Instead, celebrate the small wins: the first time you stick to your morning routine, the one day you swap scrolling for journaling, the moment you choose water over soda.

Every small step forward is progress, and progress is powerful.

The Power of Habit Stacking

One of the easiest ways to build new habits is by attaching them to the routines you already have—this is called habit stacking.

For example:

While brushing your teeth, practice 3 affirmations.
While waiting for your coffee to brew, do a quick stretch or jot down 3 things you’re grateful for.
After your evening shower, set out your clothes for the next day.

By pairing a new habit with an existing one, it becomes easier to integrate into your daily life without feeling forced.

Focus on One New Habit a Week

Let’s face it—trying to change everything all at once is overwhelming. That’s why focusing on just one habit a week is such a game changer.

Start by deciding which aspect of your life needs the most attention. Maybe it’s your mental health, your energy levels, or even just getting more organized. Once you’ve identified what’s most important, commit to building one new habit that aligns with that goal.

Take it slow, and don’t rush the process. Remember: you’re not just building habits—you’re building a better version of yourself.

A 4-Week December Habit Challenge

If you’re ready to take action, here is a 4-week December Habit Challenge, which is designed to help you build momentum with small, achievable steps. By the time January 1st rolls around, you’ll already feel more aligned, confident, and in control of your journey.

Week 1: Move Your Body & Declutter Digitally

Habit: Commit to 30 minutes of movement daily. Whether it’s walking, yoga, pilates, or dancing around your living room, find a way to move that feels joyful and manageable.
Activity: Start a digital detox. Delete unnecessary files, photos, and videos from your devices. Organize your desktop, clean up your apps, and unsubscribe from emails that clutter your inbox. You’ll feel an immediate sense of clarity.

Week 2: Rise Earlier & Declutter Your Space

Habit: Start waking up 30 minutes earlier than usual. Use this time to enjoy a peaceful morning moment, journal, or set your intentions for the day.
Activity: Declutter your home. Tackle one area at a time—your closet, kitchen, or even that one junk drawer we all have. Creating a clean, organized environment can do wonders for your mindset.

Week 3: Create Simple Routines & Plan Meals

Habit: Develop a simple morning and evening routine that suits your schedule. This could include skincare, journaling, or sipping tea while reading. Keep it realistic and enjoyable.
Activity: Start compiling a personal recipe book of easy, nutritious meals you can prep ahead of time. This makes healthy eating effortless and something to look forward to.

Week 4: Discover a New Passion & Set Intentions

Habit: Dedicate 1 hour, twice a week, to exploring a new hobby or skill. Whether it’s painting, learning a language, or baking, find something that excites you and gives you joy.
Activity: Reflect on your goals and dreams for the new year. Write out your intentions and create an action plan to bring them to life. Focus on what aligns with your vision and values.

Conclusion

This December, let’s ditch the “wait until January” mindset. Instead of putting your goals and dreams on hold, start now—because every small step you take today sets the tone for the incredible year ahead.

Remember, glowing up isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Consistency beats intensity, and the little things you do daily will compound into big changes over time. Whether it’s moving your body, decluttering your space, or journaling your goals, every action is a vote for the person you’re becoming.

Think of December as your warm-up, your foundation, your head start. The new year isn’t a magic reset button—it’s just another day. Your life is happening right now, and you have the power to take control, one habit at a time.

So let’s make this December the month we look back on as the moment everything started to change. Your dream life isn’t as far away as it seems—it begins with the choices you make today.