Why “I’ll Start Again in January” Keeps You Stuck: A Smarter Way to Navigate This Christmas

Thought For The Week

As we move toward the end of the year, it can be easy to loosen our grip and decide we’ll get back into things properly in January.

Especially around Christmas, when the holidays mean our days have less structure, treats are everywhere, and the focus shifts toward enjoyment, many of us press pause and give ourselves permission to switch off.

The challenge is that pressing pause can easily turn into stepping away completely. Staying engaged can start to feel pointless unless everything’s being done “properly” or “perfectly.”

Progress becomes tied to being fully on, and anything less can feel like it doesn’t really count.

Over time, this creates a familiar cycle: long stretches of letting things slide, followed by a renewed push to start fresh.

The lead-up to Christmas can be a useful opportunity to step out of that pattern and practise a more balanced, sustainable way of moving forward — one that allows for flexibility without abandoning progress altogether.

Exercise Tip

When it comes to exercise, the same “all-or-nothing” trap can sneak in.

Skipping a planned session or having a lighter week can easily feel like falling off track — but the reality is, consistency doesn’t mean perfection.

Even small, intentional movements count, and staying connected to your routine in any capacity keeps momentum going.

Over the holidays, this might look like shorter workouts, a brisk walk with family, or fitting in a few simple strength or mobility exercises at home.

The goal isn’t to “make up” for anything you missed — it’s to keep moving in a way that feels enjoyable, sustainable, and realistic.

Maintaining that connection, even in a smaller way, makes it much easier to pick things back up in the new year without the pressure of starting from scratch.

Try this:

Keep a routine anchor. Stick to one consistent habit (e.g. a morning walk, a short bodyweight strength session, or a few stretches) to keep your routine and momentum going, and make it easier to pick back up with the rest of your training in January.

Nutrition Tip

Holidays often bring an abundance of tempting foods, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of “I’ve ruined it, so I might as well keep going.”

The reality is that one indulgent meal — or even a few — doesn’t erase all your progress.

The key is to enjoy without guilt, tune in to your hunger and fullness cues, and make choices that feel good for your body.

This might mean savouring a festive treat mindfully rather than eating on autopilot, filling half your plate with vegetables, or simply keeping your usual meals consistent when possible.

These small, thoughtful decisions help maintain balance, limit overindulgence, and make it easier to return to your regular routine after the holidays without feeling like you’re starting over — while still leaving plenty of room to taste, enjoy, and try a little of everything.

Try this:

Keep key meals consistent. Sticking to your usual breakfast and/or lunch can help stabilise your appetite and prevent overeating later.

Inspirational Quote

“What you do every day matters more than what you do once in a while.”

Gretchen Rubin