Get a Head Start: Practical Tips to Prep for Your 2025 Goals

Why Wait for the New Year?

The end of the year is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and start setting the foundation for the year ahead. Instead of waiting for January 1st to dive into your goals, why not ease into them during these last few weeks of December? By taking small, intentional steps now, you can build momentum that carries you seamlessly into 2025!

Here are some practical tips to help you craft realistic goals and begin integrating them into your life—without the pressure of a hard January reset.

Step 1: Reflect on 2024

Before looking ahead to your 2025 goals, take some time to review the past year. Ask yourself:

• What were my biggest wins in 2024?
• Where did I face challenges, and what did I learn from them?
• Are there habits or routines I want to continue, refine, or leave behind?

Example Action: Spend 15 minutes journaling or make a list of 5 things you’re proud of and 5 areas where you’d like to grow. Reflection gives clarity and helps you set meaningful goals.

Step 2: Write Goals That Inspire Action

Your goals should excite you—not overwhelm you. Use these tips to create goals that stick:

• Be specific: Instead of saying “I want to get healthier,” try “I will walk for 20 minutes, three times a week.”
• Break them down: Set mini goals for each month or week. For example, “Drink an extra glass of water each day in January” builds into a long-term hydration habit.
• Focus on balance: Include goals for different areas of your life, such as personal growth, relationships, wellness, or career.

Example Action: Write 2-3 small goals to test out in December. If they feel manageable, expand on them in the new year.

Step 3: Start Small and Ease In

No one expects perfection during the holidays, but small changes now can make a big impact later. Think of December as a trial run for your 2025 habits.

• Want to exercise more? Begin with 5-minute stretches or a quick walk during your lunch break.
• Want to eat better? Swap out one sugary drink for water or add an extra veggie to your meals.
• Want to get more organized? Start by decluttering one small area, like your desk or a kitchen drawer.

Example Action: Choose one goal to test out for 1-2 weeks in December. Pay attention to what works and adjust as needed.

Step 4: Create a Support System

Goals are easier to achieve when you have support. Share your plans with a friend, family member, or coworker, and invite them to join you or cheer you on.

• For wellness goals: Use a tracking app like Workplace Wellness to stay accountable.
• For social goals: Plan a weekly check-in call with a friend or family member.
• For professional goals: Discuss your aspirations with a mentor or manager to align your efforts with growth opportunities.

Example Action: Find one person to share your goals with before the new year and schedule a quick check-in to talk about progress.

Step 5: Celebrate Small Wins

Don’t wait until December 31st or January 1st to celebrate your efforts. Recognize and reward yourself for the small steps you take along the way.

• Treat yourself to something meaningful, like a relaxing bath, a good book, or a fun outing.
• Reflect on how even small changes, like drinking more water or taking a 10-minute walk, are already benefiting you.

Example Action: At the end of each week, write down one thing you accomplished and one thing you’re proud of.

The Path to Your 2025 Goals Starts Today!

Goal setting isn’t about making drastic changes overnight; it’s about finding small, consistent actions that build toward bigger results. By taking intentional steps now, you’ll start 2025 feeling motivated, prepared, and confident.

Workplace Wellness is Here to Help…

Looking for tools to stay on track? The Workplace Wellness app offers a range of resources to support your wellness goals, from guided activities to progress tracking. Let’s make 2025 your healthiest and happiest year yet!