How I Use December to Plan for a Big, Bold, and Balanced Year

You guys. This time of year can feel like absolute madness. Between the holiday chaos, endless to-dos, and making everything “magical,” it’s easy to feel like you’re just barely holding it together. (Hi, it me.)

But also? It’s my favorite time of year for a totally different reason: end-of-year planning.

Every December, I go all in on a little ritual that helps me clear the mental clutter, reflect on the year (yes, even the messy parts), and map out what I actually want for the next 12 months. And honestly? It’s a game-changer.

This practice is my secret to starting the year feeling light, clear, and excited—and I’m spilling it all here so you can do it too. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Clear the Chaos

Before you can plan for an amazing year, you’ve gotta lighten your load. I’m talking physically, mentally, emotionally—all the things.

Here’s what works for me:

• Declutter your space: Nothing feels better than donating clothes you don’t wear, clearing out your workspace, and finally tackling that pile of random junk in your car. Start fresh, and you’ll feel a million times lighter.
• Inbox zero vibes: Yes, it’s a thing. Unsubscribe from all that spam (seriously, why does every Shopify site suddenly think we’re besties?), organize important emails, and clear out the stuff you’ve been ignoring. Pro tip: Create folders for everything.
• Ditch the heavy commitments: Say no to stuff that doesn’t feel good or align with your goals. You don’t owe anyone an explanation—just own your time and protect your energy.

Step 2: Plan a Big, Bold Year-Defining Moment

Instead of just setting random goals, I like to focus on one big thing that will make the year unforgettable.

What’s your thing? It could be…

• Launching a dream project
• Running a marathon (or walking it—I won’t judge)
• Finally taking that bucket-list trip

Once you’ve got your big moment, put it on the calendar. Back into the steps you’ll need to make it happen, and get excited—it’s officially happening.

Step 3: Add Fun Little Experiences

Here’s the deal: life feels SO much more exciting when you sprinkle in little, out-of-the-ordinary moments. So, I plan six new experiences every year—one every other month.

These aren’t massive commitments, but they’re the kind of things that make you think, “Wow, that was cool.” Like:

• Taking a pottery class (I’ve always wanted to try throwing clay on a wheel)
• Organizing all your photos and making a family yearbook (15 years late, but whatever)
• Doing something random, like trapeze school or stained glass making

Write down your ideas, block the time, and make it happen. You’ll thank yourself later.

Step 4: Build One New Habit at a Time

Let me just say it: starting the year with a massive list of “new year, new me” goals is a recipe for burnout. Instead, focus on one new habit at a time.

Some ideas:

• Drink more water (yes, I know, but seriously)
• Take 10,000 steps a day (I love my walking pad for this!)
• Do a five-minute nightly reset to tidy your space

Once that habit sticks, add another. By the end of the year, you’ll have 12 new habits without feeling like you’re juggling too much.

Bonus: The Workbook That’ll Change Your Year

Okay, here’s the fun part. To make all of this super easy, I created a FREE End-of-Year Workbook just for you.

It’s packed with prompts and questions to help you reflect on 2024, clear the clutter, and plan a 2025 that feels bold, exciting, and so aligned with what you want.

Seriously, this thing is magic. Grab your copy here.

Let’s Make 2025 the Year You Deserve

This whole practice is about stepping into the new year feeling clear, confident, and ready to go after what you want—because let’s be honest, it’s not going to happen unless you make it happen.

So:

• Simplify.
• Plan.
• Commit.

And grab the workbook to guide you through the process. I can’t wait to see what you create this year—you’ve got this!

Loved this? Share it with a friend who needs to hear it, and let me know how you’re prepping for the new year. Let’s crush it together!

-

If you want to learn how to craft irresistible, results-driven pitches, I’d love to help. Join my free newsletter, The PR Pro Insider, where I share weekly tips to help you land placements, retain clients, and grow your business. It’s not just about pitching—it’s about building a PR business that thrives.

Join the PR Pro Insider here.

Remember: You don’t need a massive media network. You need strategic pitching. Master that skill, and you’ll deliver the results your clients are looking for, stand out in the industry, and build a sustainable, thriving PR business.