End-of-Year Message: Consistency, Balance, and Celebrating Your Progress
As we approach the holiday season, I’ve noticed a common concern popping up in conversations: how to stay consistent with your fitness routine during this busy, unpredictable time of year. So, I wanted to take a moment to share an important message with all of you: be flexible with yourself.
Consistency doesn’t mean grinding out the same level of intensity every single week or pushing through at full capacity regardless of life’s demands. True consistency is about adapting to your circumstances and finding ways to keep moving forward, even if it looks different from your usual routine.
Let me give you an example. At the beginning of this month, I had my niece and nephew staying with me for a week. Between work and taking care of two energetic kids, I knew I wouldn’t be able to stick to my normal workout schedule. So, on Sunday, I set a realistic goal for the week. Was it less than what I usually do? Definitely. But because I made a plan that fit my situation, I stuck to it. I kept moving, stayed consistent, and—most importantly—I felt successful instead of overwhelmed.
A key to consistency—and, more importantly, wellness—is also balance. That might mean adapting your workouts, but it could also mean giving yourself permission to take the week off and focus on family or rest. Let me reassure you: you won’t lose your fitness in a week. In fact, taking intentional breaks every few months can help you stay consistent in the long run by preventing burnout and keeping your routine sustainable.
For fitness to truly become a part of your life long-term, we need to let go of the fear that taking a break will ruin our progress. Your routine isn’t a fragile thing that you’ll lose at the first slip-up. I understand where that fear comes from—many of us have had an on-again, off-again relationship with exercise throughout our lives. It’s easy to worry that a break will send you back to square one.
But here’s the truth: you’re not the person you were 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or even 6 months ago. You’ve learned, grown, and built resilience. Have a little faith in yourself. Believing in your ability to maintain your progress and come back stronger creates a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you believe you are someone who can prioritize movement, adapt when needed, and return after a break, then that’s exactly who you’ll be.
And here’s a final thought: instead of focusing on “falling off” during the holiday period, why not end the year on a positive note? Take a moment to reflect on how many sessions you’ve completed this year, the progress you’ve made, and everything you’ve accomplished. Celebrate your wins—big and small—and remind yourself that you’re heading into the new year stronger and more confident than ever.
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of balance, adaptability, and trust in your own growth. Let’s finish this year not with rigid expectations, but with grace, perspective, and a deep appreciation for all we’ve achieved.
Wishing you a joyful and movement-filled holiday season,
Allison
