Why December Is the Best Time to Start Your Health Goals

Dr Madison Sangster-Newbery, ND

Every year, the same cycle unfolds: December arrives, life speeds up, and health goals get pushed aside with the familiar promise, “I’ll start fresh in January.” But what if waiting for January is keeping you stuck? 

Here’s what I see in practice: December is one of the most powerful months to begin building healthy habits. Starting now, while life is busy and imperfect, sets the stage for real, sustainable change. 

You Don’t Need a “Perfect” Month to Make Progress 

Most people wait for a clean slate, but perfection is the biggest barrier to consistency. Life won’t suddenly become less busy on January 1st. Starting now teaches you how to build habits in your real life- work events, holiday meals, travel, and all the inevitable fluctuations. When you can take small steps during a busy month, imagine what you can accomplish once life settles down. 

Small Wins in December Lead to Big Momentum in January 

You don’t need an overhaul. In fact, I don’t recommend it. Simple shifts you can begin today, like adding protein to breakfast, optimizing your supplementation, walking 10 minutes after meals, or prioritizing stress and sleep, create a foundation that makes January feel less overwhelming.  

Think of December as your warm-up: intentional, achievable, and steady.   

Then, when January arrives, you’re not starting from scratch. You’re already showing up for yourself. 

Your Body Doesn’t Take the Holidays Off 

Your stress, digestion, energy levels, and immune system don’t pause because it’s December. The holiday season is often when I see the biggest flare-ups of gut symptoms, fatigue, headaches, and mood changes. Supporting your health now helps you avoid the crash-and-recover cycle so many people fall into each winter. 

And no, you don’t need to restrict or miss out. Naturopathic medicine is rooted in balance, nourishment, and sustainable habits, not deprivation. 

December Is the Perfect Month for Accountability 

There’s something incredibly powerful about giving yourself support during a busy season. With a clear plan, personalized tools, and consistent accountability, change becomes much easier to sustain.  

My patients often tell me that December appointments help anchor routines, reduce stress, support digestion, and create a clear path heading into January.  

This December, Choose to Support Yourself 

If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’ve put your health on hold and you are ready for something different. What if, instead of waiting, you gave yourself permission to begin?  

Not perfectly. Not intensely. Just intentionally. 

And if you have extended health benefits, now is the perfect time to use them before they expire at the end of the year. 

Ready to Begin? Let’s Build Your December Plan 

If you want personalized support, habit-building strategies, supplement recommendations, or a clear roadmap for your goals, I’m here for you. Book your visit today and start feeling better now, not “next year.” 

You can read more about Dr Sangster-Newbery here and here, or book a consultation with her here or here.