As we begin to close the door on 2025, there’s this collective feeling in the air… part reflection, part momentum, part “holy crap, how is it already December?” And if you’re anything like me, you’re ready to close the year feeling aligned, grounded, and proud of the work you’ve put in.
Here are the 8 things every one of us should be doing to finish 2025 strong, healthy, and on purpose…with a few of my personal favorites sprinkled in, because sometimes the little things are what keep us grounded.
1. Revisit Your Wins, Even the Small Ones
(Guys, this is sooo important.)
We move so fast we forget to acknowledge what we’ve actually done. Pull out your camera roll, your planner, your notes app, and look at everything you’ve accomplished this year. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ve grown, even in moments that felt heavy or messy.
Pro tip: This is also the perfect moment to light a candle, sip a warm mug of instant bone broth (my winter go-to), and let yourself actually appreciate how far you’ve come.
2. Audit Your Habits
Your habits tell the truth long before your goals do. What’s working? What’s draining you? What needs to stay in 2026 and what needs to go?
This is the season for honest evaluation, NOT judgment.
3. Check Your Biomarkers, Not Just Your Weight
Energy, strength, sleep, stress, hormones, muscle mass, hydration, recovery…these matter just as much—maybe even more—than the number on the scale.
And yes, this is where my bioactive peptide foundation (Fit + Lean + Hydrated) has become a huge part of my own health baseline. Getting real data and supporting your body from the inside out is game-changing.
4. Fall Back in Love with Your Warm-Up
We’re in such a rush to hit the ground running that we skip the part that keeps us healthy. Whether it’s your warm-up at the gym, the way you start your work day, or your morning routine, slow down.
Preparing well is the foundation for performing well.
And if you need a little boost to get started? Turn on a motivating podcast, lately, Ed Mylett’s “One More Day, One More Choice” has been my reset button, but there are tons of great ones available.
5. Make One Meaningful Financial Decision
It doesn’t have to be big, but it does need to be intentional.
💰Increase your savings by 1%.
💰Pay down a piece of debt.
💰Organize your taxes early.
💰Or finally set up the financial system you’ve been avoiding.
A small move now sets up major ease in January.
6. Strengthen Your Relationships on Purpose
Reach out to the people who lifted you up this year. Set boundaries with the ones who drained you. Nurture the connections that make you better.
You don’t need more people. You need the right people.
My favorite tradition: picking one friend or family member each week in December to surprise with a message, a note, or even a treat drop-off.
7. Simplify Your Wellness Routine
The end of the year isn’t the time to overhaul everything. It’s the time to anchor into the basics:
- Hydrate (support energy & boost metabolism)
- Move daily (preferably outdoors)
- Strength train (lift for longevity)
- Prioritize sleep (this is when our bodies repair and recover)
- Support your hormones (decrease cortisol & boost NAD)
Your future self will thank you.
And don’t skip little treats, we need those for our wellbeing too. So, for those cozy winter evenings, a chocolate mug cake has saved many nights for me. You’re welcome!
8. Set a Theme for 2026 (Not a Resolution)
Instead of a long list of goals you’ll forget by February, choose a theme—a word, phrase, or intention, that guides your decisions.
Clarity. Strength. Expansion. Ease. Resilience.
Let it shape the year before it even begins.
Lastly…
Closing out a year isn’t just about tying up loose ends; it’s about stepping into the next chapter with intentionality, strength, and self-respect.
You don’t need perfection. You just need direction.
Here’s to ending 2025 grounded, grateful, and ready for whatever comes next. Remember, joy doesn’t just happen, you create it through tiny choices, tiny rituals, and tiny moments that remind you who you are.
Grab your 🎧 … I dropped a fun Christmas playlist for you. Enjoy! 🎄
Cheers to new beginnings.
Denise xo
Beyond the Hustle 
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