Let me first start off by saying that I don't love the term "resolutions." It implies that there's a problem that needs to be solved or a behaviour that needs to be changed, and I believe that New Year's "resolutions" can be about improving oneself or simply adding structure after the holidays [1] get the best of us. That's why this year I decided to kick off my fresh mindset and healthy routine [2] in November.
Before Thanksgiving dinner, before the influx of holiday parties and what feels like incessant alcohol consumption, I preemptively flipped the switch and kicked off my New Year's resolutions end-of-year goals. There are a few solid reasons why I decided to do this, and I might even convince you to do the same. Think: looking fabulous at holiday parties, carefree indulgences, and of course, the lack of lines at the gym. Ahead, find out why November was my January [3] and why my abs have never been so thankful [4].
Gyms Are Less Crowded
I'm sorry, where did all these members come from?! By the time January rolls around and the New Year's Eve hangovers have disappeared, the occupancy in gyms skyrockets [6], and some people even find themselves waiting in line for a machine. In the wise words of Randy Jackson, "That's gonna be a no from me, dawg." I'm all for people getting their workout on, but it's incredibly difficult to get in the zone and maintain high-energy levels when constantly stopping to let someone else have their turn [7]. Classes book up immediately, the towel rack is always empty, and I would find myself letting out a big "UGH" every few minutes.
Now in November, I'm not sure if others haven't secured their memberships yet [8], or their "resolutions" just haven't kicked off, but this doesn't seem to be an issue! Gyms are less crowded, classes have room for me to book the day of, and I can finish my workout without getting dirty looks from the anxious people walking in circles around the elliptical.
If You Mess Up, There's More Time to Get Back on Track
You don't need me to tell you that resolutions are hard to maintain [9]. There's a strong drop off rate in those gym memberships about two weeks into January, but if you start in November, there's ample time to get back on track. There's no pressure to "not break your New Year's resolutions," because spoiler alert: it's still not the new year! Starting in November gives you time to see what's stopping you from achieving your goals [10] and eliminate those things from your life. Because slipping up is inevitable, but without the pressure of everyone else trying to keep their "resolutions," hopefully you can do your best to maintain yours.
It's the Perfect Timing Before the Holidays
Whether you have a trip planned for the end of the year, or simply a few weeks inundated with holiday parties, starting your health and wellness goals [11] early can only do wonders for your busy schedule. Personally, I have a warm-weather trip in December and wouldn't mind feeling like my finest self on the beach. Starting my goals in November will give me the space for carefree indulgences both on my trip and throughout the wave of holiday parties. After years of preaching that "I'll start tomorrow" and subsequently consuming ruthlessly, starting early will give me the space to enjoy these end-of-year moments without feeling guilty.
Why Not?!
You don't need a fresh page on the calendar to turn over a fresh page in your life. If you have things that you're looking forward to doing or considering "New Year's resolutions," there's no harm in starting them early [12]. So, who's coming with me on this premature journey?