The holiday season has a way of making us feel like we need to completely reinvent our entire personalities on January 1st. New diet, new workout routine, new planner, new morning routine that starts at 4 AM even though we’ve been waking up at 7:30 since 2014.
But here’s the truth…
You don’t need a new you. You just need 1% better.
And that — my friends — is exactly what I’m doing.
This year, instead of waiting for January to “fix my life,” I started small. I committed to one thing at a time. Tiny things that add up over time.
My mornings now look a little unhinged:
First, I dunk myself in a cold plunge like a shocked penguin. My brain screams, my body panics, and after 30 seconds I step out feeling like I could conquer the world… or at least my inbox.
Then I hop on my rebounder and get my “lumpyahic system” moving. Yes, I know it’s called lymphatic. No, I’m not changing it. Lumpyahic is more fun.
And THEN — I top it off with my homemade anti-inflammation concoction. A bright orange witch-potion made of turmeric, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, aloe vera juice, lemon, and apple cider vinegar.
I drink 4 ounces every day.
And listen… I’ve noticed a dramatic difference. And people keep telling me I look more energized, which I accept with pride.
Now, let me be fully honest.
I also started running recently… and by run number four, my body said, “LAUREN. SIT DOWN.” My Achilles heel delivered a full Broadway performance of throbbing pain. It was humbling. I thought I was athletic. Turns out, I’m athletic in my mind only.
But here’s the bigger lesson:
Even when one goal gets blocked, you have others to fall back on when you’ve built a lifestyle of small habits.
So as we head into the holidays, here’s my encouragement:
Start now. Choose one tiny thing. Let it be your 1%.
Don’t wait for January 1st to “fix everything.”
Your future self will be SO glad you started today.
If this resonated with you, check out my books, media guides, and resources at my website — perfect for gifts, teachers, small business owners, and anyone trying to be just a little better every day.