01/05/2026
“New Year, New Me!” “New Year, New Goals!” Every single year it’s the same thing. We believe that the tick of a clock or the flip of a new calendar should mean that we need to make changes. It’s still winter. It’s still cold out. So why do we put so much pressure on ourselves that this is when we need to make big changes?
Here’s my advice: Don’t do it.
So hear me out. I’m not saying that you should binge all winter and fluff up like a bear about to hibernate, but I’m also saying let’s not do anything drastic.
I remember the quote, I believe Brad Paisley said, something about the New Year is the beginning of your book with 365 pages. Okay, say it is. When you are reading a book, you start with Chapter 1, right? Does that 1st or 2nd Chapter have the main plot unfold and get to the climatic part? Of course not. The first couple of chapters are an introduction to the characters and the setting is laid out. At this point the reader has no idea what’s going to unfold but they keep reading to find out. Chapter by chapter, the story (usually) develops and gets better.
That’s how your year should be as well. Use January and February as the beginning of a book. Learn more about who you are, what kind of character you want to be. For example, if you are wanting to improve your health and losing weight has always been difficult, take this time to get your hormones tested. I know firsthand that hormones can wreak havoc on your body and cause all kinds of problems and you will not lose a pound no matter how hard you work out or how clean your diet is. Maybe you struggle getting enough sleep? Sleep is imperative to a healthy and balanced body. It’s a good time to work on a better schedule that will allow you to get more rest. Hormones, sleep, nutrition, and exercise are the four components of a healthier lifestyle, for sure. Think of your body like a car. You have to have all 4 wheels working or you won’t be going anywhere.
The body is a phenomenal thing. When the hormones are balanced and you’re getting enough sleep, the body has more energy, and naturally, the body wants to be more active. And when the body is feeling good, it generally craves food that’s good for you. Crazy, right? Funny how that works.
So take your time on your wellness journey, one chapter at a time. And be good to your body. It’s the only one you get! Happy 2026!
