The gift of December: Why the quietest days can bring the biggest growth

How I use the calm of Christmas to focus, reflect, and step into the new year—and how you can too

There’s something magical about December. Maybe it’s the hush that falls over the world, the way the streets empty out and the air feels softer, quieter. For years, I used to feel a little out of place during the holidays—everyone rushing, planning, filling their calendars with family gatherings, endless errands, and social obligations. The world seemed to speed up, but all I wanted was to slow down.

What I’ve learned is this: December is the one time of year when the world finally gives us permission to pause. And I’ve come to cherish this season as my own sacred “me time.” While others are busy with family traditions (and yes, I love my family and friends dearly), I find my deepest joy in the quiet—when the noise fades and I can finally hear myself think.

This is when I get to focus on the bigger projects—the ones that matter, but so often get crowded out by daily demands. It’s when I reflect on the past year, not with regret, but with gentle curiosity. I ask myself: what did I learn? Where did I grow? What’s still waiting for me, just beneath the surface?

I used to believe that growth had to come from hustle and noise. But I’ve discovered that the biggest shifts often happen in the stillness.

Here’s how I approach these final, precious week of the year

1. Choose one intention that truly matters. Not a to-do list, not a mountain of resolutions. Just one thing. The one shift that would change your energy, your sense of self, your path for the new year. For me, it’s often something internal—a belief to rewrite, a project I want to pour my heart into, or a new way I want to show up for myself and my clients.
2. Build two gentle rituals that support your intention. I love the simplicity of this. Maybe it’s a morning walk in the cold air, journaling by candlelight, or taking time to prep nourishing meals. These aren’t about willpower—they’re about creating space for what you want to become.
3. Say ‘no’ to everything that doesn’t serve your peace. This is my secret superpower. I’ve learned to decline what doesn’t align, gently but firmly. I’d rather enjoy family and friends in quieter, more meaningful moments—when the world isn’t demanding my attention in a dozen directions.
4. Celebrate the small wins. Progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s as simple as noticing you feel lighter, or that you handled a challenge with more grace. I track my little wins, and I invite you to do the same. They matter.
5. Share your journey (even if it feels vulnerable). I used to keep my growth private, but I’ve seen how sharing our stories creates ripples. You never know who you’ll inspire—sometimes just by being honest about your own imperfect path.
6. Start today, not January 1st. There’s no magic in waiting for the calendar to turn. The best changes begin in the quiet, with small steps. Imperfect action now is more powerful than the perfect plan tomorrow.

This December, I invite you to embrace the quiet. Let it be your time to dream, to heal, to plan—and to step into the new year already in motion.

And if you’re looking for a gentle nudge, or a bit of community and inspiration, I can’t recommend Sigrun’s 12 Days of Masterclasses enough. It’s a beautiful way to learn, connect, and set yourself up for a truly fulfilling 2026.

Reflection for you: What’s the one thing you want to nurture in yourself this December? Let me know in the comments, or send me a message—I’d love to cheer you on.

🎁 🎄Give yourself the gift of growth—join the 12 Days of Masterclasses 🎁