Ditch the New Year Resolutions

Nov 26

Reflect, Reset & Reignite Your Wellness Goals for 2026

Do you ever feel like the years pass, but your wellness and fitness goals stay stuck on paper? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing. You’re evolving. So grab your journal or laptop, pour yourself a cup of tea, and let’s dive into a powerful year-end reflection and reset for 2026.

Step 1: Reflect on 2025—The Good, the Bad, and the “What the Heck?”

December is my favorite time to reflect on the year—personally and with my clients. It’s not about judgment. It’s about learning. We grow more from our trials and errors than from our wins.

Ask yourself:

What were your highs? When did you feel strong, proud, or resilient?
What were your lows? What didn’t go as planned? What patterns held you back?
What made you say, “What the heck?” Any surprises or setbacks that taught you something?
What could you have done better? Where did you need more time, intention, or support?
What are you proud of? What habits, routines, or modalities do you want to keep?

Remember: strength isn’t gifted. Confidence doesn’t just strike. They’re earned—on the hard days, when you show up anyway. So congratulate yourself. You’re doing the work.

Step 2: Reset Your SMART Goals for 2026

Forget outdated resolutions. Let’s set goals that actually work. SMART goals are:

Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time-bound

Think beyond “lose weight” or “get fit.” Instead, try:

“Complete 3 strength sessions per week through March.”
“Track macros 5 days a week until summer.”
“Incorporate 2 active recovery sessions weekly.”
“Journal 3x/week to support my mental game.”

Step 3: Implement with Intention

Here are 7 powerful strategies to help you stay on track:

1. Map Your Year

Use a large calendar or digital planner. Mark:

Races, vacations, and work events
Monthly and quarterly goals
Weekly targets (plan 4 weeks ahead)

Seeing your progress at a glance keeps you motivated and accountable.

2. Dial in Your Macros

Despite the trends, macro tracking is just basic nutrition. It’s not about perfection—it’s about clarity. Fuel your body with the right balance of protein, carbs, and fats to feel energized and see results.

3. Reduce Friction

Make it easier to show up:

Schedule workouts as appointments
Prep clothes, shoes, and snacks the night before
Match your workout to your energy and life context

We don’t just “exercise”—we train with purpose. Whether it’s bouncing back from a tough day, managing a flare-up, or recovering from a sleepless night, your session should serve you.

4. Share Your Goals

Tell your partner, coach, or community. Accountability increases follow-through. Plus, you’ll gain new perspectives—just make sure they’re valid ones!

5. Train Your Brain First

Your body executes what your mind believes. Mental skills like visualization, self-talk, and goal-setting are game-changers. (Check out my blog: The Power of Mental Skills for more.)

6. Plan for the Chaos

Life won’t “calm down.” Build your plan to work during your busiest times. Create “Plan B” options—short workouts, walks, or mobility sessions—to keep momentum and mental stability.

7. Start Now

Don’t wait for January. Start today. You don’t need more information or a better plan. You need action. Consistent, imperfect, empowering action.

Bonus: Train Smarter, Not Harder

As we age, our strategies must evolve. What worked in your 20s may not work now—and that’s okay. Focus on:

Smarter training
Proper warm-ups
Active and passive recovery
Listening to your body over your training plan

You’re not broken. You’re adapting. And that’s powerful.

Want to Go Deeper?

I’m a nerd for building personalized fitness and wellness routines—whether it’s for race prep, post-surgery recovery, menopause, or maximizing training through periodization.

Check out more on my website:

Let’s make 2026 the year you stop starting over. Reflect. Reset. Reignite. And remember: the best time to start is right now.

With strength and support,

Anne Biscaldi

Anne Biscaldi