Keep Your Momentum Through the Holidays: Why December Sets the Tone for Your New Year

Hey Team,

As the holiday season settles in, it’s easy to fall into the mindset of slowing down and putting off your goals until January. We find ourselves surrounded by beautiful decorations, busy schedules, and endless temptations to wait until the “New Year rush” to get back on track. But here’s the truth: what you do in December shapes your momentum for January and beyond.

Many people tell themselves they’ll “start fresh after the holidays” or “get back on track in January.” But motivation, resolutions, or the clock striking midnight won’t automatically set you up for success. Instead, the habits and routines you maintain—or let slip—during December are what you’ll carry into the New Year.

If you pause your healthy routines now, you’ll have to rebuild them from scratch later. But if you protect even one healthy habit and keep moving forward, you’ll enter January already in motion, already strong, and already winning.

December is challenging: it’s busy, emotional, and full of distractions. But that’s exactly why staying committed now is so powerful. When you stay consistent during the hardest month of the year, you build resilience, self-trust, and real momentum. Anyone can be disciplined when life is calm; champions stay committed when life is chaotic.

Your Challenge This Week

Choose ONE thing you will protect for the rest of the month:

• 10,000 steps a day

• Drinking more water

• A consistent workout routine

• Getting to bed on time

• Tracking your meals

• Joining a program

• Showing up

Write it down.
Commit to it.
You are looking for Momentum — not perfection.

Because one focused habit beats ten forgotten goals.

You don’t have to do this alone. If you want support—whether it’s fitness, nutrition, accountability, or just someone to talk things through—reach out. Let’s build a plan together so you can walk into January already becoming the person you want to be.

December is the true decider—not January. Don’t wait to get started. Even a small step now can make all the difference for your New Year momentum.

You’ve got this, and support is here for you every step of the way.

• The author, Rob Sumner, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Sumner Specialized Physical Therapy, Specialized Strength, and Specialized Massage. He's happy to answer any questions about this article, wellness, or physical therapy overall by phone at (509) 684-5621 or by email at Rob@SumnerPT.com