5 Small Wins to Carry Into the New Year

This week is the peak of holiday stress. Packed to-do lists, family obligations, and functions that feel like they run your life and your food choices. It probably doesn’t feel like the best time to set goals that will make a difference in your nutrition, health, or sustainable weight loss, especially if you’re a busy mom in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or 60s. It probably feels more like your personal Super Bowl as you try to make Christmas and the holidays magical for everyone.

Just because we’re busy doesn’t mean we can’t rack up some wins going into the new year. One of our clients, Emily, a mom in her late 20s with a young daughter, is focusing on small, simple habits to feel her best. She shared that she has been getting outside even for just 10 minutes when she can, moving more, and eating at scheduled meal and snack times to be more mindful of her intake. After focusing on these habits throughout December, she noticed less bloating, her clothes fit better, and she has more energy than previous holidays when she wasn’t as consistent.

It’s not too late to start building your small wins to boost momentum into 2026. Here are five small wins you can carry into the New Year with help from a trusted weight loss dietitian and virtual nutritionist at Nourished with Emily.

Small Win 1: Not Skipping Meals

Skipping breakfast or lunch might feel like you are saving time or calories, but it often backfires. It can make you hungrier, increase cravings, and make it harder to make good choices around the holiday foods you enjoy.

Instead, grab something easy and satisfying. Try a drinkable yogurt or a breakfast sandwich to go. Both give you protein to keep you fuller for longer and nutrients to help support your immune system. These simple meal habits are key for sustainable weight loss without feeling restricted.

Small Win 2: Drinking More Water

Staying hydrated is important all year, but it becomes even more critical during the holidays. With higher carb and sodium intake from festive meals, you may notice bloating or swelling. Drinking water consistently helps your body feel better, supports digestion, and keeps your appetite steady.

A good starting goal is about half your body weight in ounces each day. Working with a virtual dietitian at Nourished with Emily can help you figure out the hydration plan that works best for you.

Small Win 3: Consistent Bedtime

Sleep often takes a backseat during the holidays, but getting enough rest is key for energy, appetite control, and stress management. You don’t need perfect sleep. Even going to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier than usual can help you feel more focused, grounded, and ready for the day.

Small Win 4: Move in a Way That Works for You

Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated or take hours. Small bursts of movement throughout your day add up and help reduce stress, boost energy, and keep you feeling strong. Ten minutes outside, a short walk after dinner, or stretching between tasks can make a difference. The goal is movement that fits your life and supports your body without adding pressure.

Small Win 5: Be Intentional With Treats

The holidays are full of tempting foods, but you don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying them. Choose the treats you really love, enjoy them, and then move on. Being intentional with indulgences helps you feel in control while keeping your relationship with food balanced. This simple habit supports lasting weight loss and keeps you on track without restriction.

Bringing Your Wins Into the New Year

Small wins don’t shout. They whisper. But they are exactly what set the stage for sustainable changes, confidence, and progress. By focusing on simple habits like drinking water, moving consistently, getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and enjoying treats intentionally, you will enter the new year feeling more balanced, more energized, and more in control.

Sustainable weight loss doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from consistency with habits that fit your life. Carry these small wins into 2026 and notice the difference even before your resolutions kick in.

Ready to Build Momentum in 2026?

If you want personalized guidance for lasting weight loss, strategies for healthy habits that stick, and support from a trusted virtual dietitian in Syracuse, NY, Nourished with Emily can help. Our coaching programs are designed for busy women who want to lose weight sustainably, feel confident, and enjoy food without restriction.

About the Author

Emily Gozy is an award-winning Registered Dietitian, entrepreneur, and founder of Nourished with Emily, a virtual dietitian practice based in Syracuse, NY. She specializes in helping busy women lose weight, create healthy routines that stick, and enjoy food without guilt. As a leading weight loss dietitian and virtual nutritionist, Emily guides clients across the U.S. toward lasting results.