Category: planning

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Advent Day 21 | Finish One Goal before 2026

Eleven Days to Crush a 2025 Goal: How to Finish One Big Thing Before the Year Ends

As 2025 rolls in, many of us come armed with lists of goals, aspirations, and dreams we hope to realize by year’s end. But what if you find yourself with just eleven days left to accomplish a significant goal you set earlier this year? It might sound daunting, but it’s absolutely possible with the right mindset and strategy.

That’s why today, we’re diving into how to make those final eleven days count. Plus, we’re sharing the top 10 goals people often modify to fit into a short, focused sprint — perfect to finish strong before the calendar flips to 2026.

Why Eleven Days Matter

Eleven days might seem like a race against time, but it’s also a powerful opportunity. It forces clarity, sharp focus, and decisive action. Rather than letting your goals fade into the “someday” drawer, this compressed timeline encourages you to break down what’s truly essential and minimize distractions.

Top 10 Goals People Modify for an Eleven-Day Finish

  1. Declutter and Organize Your Space
    Instead of overhauling your entire home or office, focus on one room or area. Eleven days is perfect for a methodical yet manageable tidying sprint.
  2. Start a Daily Habit
    Whether it’s meditation, journaling, or exercise, committing to just eleven days can kickstart a habit you’ll carry into the new year.
  3. Complete a Mini Creative Project
    Write a short story, finish a painting, or complete a photography series. Small creative bursts can provide big wins.
  4. Read a Book or Complete a Reading Challenge
    Pick a book that inspires or educates you and commit to finishing it within the eleven days.
  5. Health Boost: Nutrition or Fitness Challenge
    Try an eleven-day clean-eating plan or a focused workout regimen to jump-start better health habits.
  6. Repair or Build a Relationship
    Use this time to reconnect with a friend or family member through calls, letters, or meet-ups — small, meaningful actions matter.
  7. Financial Check-Up
    Review budgets, renegotiate bills, or set up a savings plan. Eleven days is enough to prepare a healthier financial foundation.
  8. Skill Burst
    Take an online course or tutorial designed to teach a specific skill in a condensed timeframe.
  9. Volunteer or Give Back Locally
    Eleven days volunteering or helping out in your community can make a significant impact both for others and yourself.
  10. Plan Your Next Year
    Use this time to reflect on 2025 goals, adjust your path, and set a clear, actionable plan for 2026.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Eleven Days

  • Prioritize ruthlessly: Narrow your focus to one clear goal or outcome.
  • Break it down: Divide your goal into daily mini-tasks or milestones.
  • Eliminate distractions: Create a workspace and schedule favorable to productivity.
  • Track Progress: Use a journal, app, or checklist to celebrate small wins.
  • Stay accountable: Share your goal with a friend or join a group with similar aims.
  • Be flexible: Adjust your approach if needed but keep the end goal in sight.

Final Thought

Eleven days may seem tight, but it’s more than enough time to create meaningful momentum. Whether your goal is big or small, personal or professional, finishing strong will set a powerful tone for the year ahead. Pick your one goal, commit to the next eleven days, and watch how much progress you can make.

What goal will you crush before the year ends?

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Advent Day 18 | Organize the Refrigerator

How to Stock Your Refrigerator: The Healthy Way, Shelf by Shelf

A well-stocked and well-organized refrigerator is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Knowing where and how to store your foods not only keeps them fresh longer but also makes meal prep easier and encourages healthier choices. At Health Storey, we believe that a thoughtfully arranged fridge can make all the difference in your daily nutrition habits.

Here’s a shelf-by-shelf guide to stocking your refrigerator for optimal freshness, convenience, and health.

Top Shelf: Ready-to-Eat and Leftovers

The top shelf is the warmest area and perfect for items that don’t require ultra-cold storage.

  • Best Choices: Leftovers in airtight containers, ready-to-eat snacks like yogurt, cheese, and cured meats.
  • Why: Easy access encourages using up leftovers first

Middle Shelf: Dairy and Eggs

The middle shelf tends to be the most consistent in temperature.

  • Best Choices: Milk, butter, eggs, and other dairy products including certain cheeses.
  • Tip: Keep eggs in their original carton and avoid storing them in the door where temperature fluctuates more.

Bottom Shelf: Raw Meat, Poultry, and Fish

The bottom shelf is the coldest part of the fridge.

  • Best Choices: Raw meats, poultry, and seafood stored in sealed containers or on trays to catch drips.
  • Safety Note: This placement prevents cross-contamination in case of leaks.

Refrigerator Door: Condiments and Drinks

The door is the warmest and least stable part of your fridge.

  • Best Choices: Condiments, sauces, juices, and bottles of water or soft drinks.
  • Avoid: Storing highly perishable items like milk or eggs here as they require colder temperatures.

Drawers: Fruits and Vegetables

Most refrigerators have separate drawers designed to maintain humidity levels for fresh produce.

  • Crisper Drawer: Use for fruits that thrive in higher humidity, such as berries, grapes, and leafy greens.
  • Vegetable Drawer: Lower humidity makes this ideal for vegetables like carrots, celery, and peppers.
  • Tip: Keep fruits and vegetables separated to prevent ethylene-sensitive veggies from ripening too quickly.

Additional Tips for an Organized, Healthy Fridge

  • Use Clear Containers: Seeing what you have helps reduce waste and encourages healthy choices.
  • Label and Date: Keep track of leftovers and prepared foods.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Proper air circulation keeps food fresher.
  • Keep a List: Maintain a running inventory on your fridge door to plan meals efficiently.

By stocking your refrigerator thoughtfully, you create an environment that supports your health goals and reduces food waste. These simple shelf-by-shelf strategies help ensure your fridge works for you—not against you!

Ready to take control of your nutrition and meal prep? Health Storey coaches are here to guide you every step of the way toward healthier habits and a happier kitchen. Contact us today to learn more!

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Sample Health Storey Form | Vision Board for 2026

Here’s a structured form for health coaching clients to create a Vision Board for their first year of detox. You can modify it for print or digital use.

Vision Board Creation Form

Client Information

  • Name: ___________
  • Email: ___________
  • Date: ___________

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating Your Vision Board

1. Set Your Intentions:

  • Reflect on your goals for your detox journey. What do you hope to achieve this year?
  • Write down at least 3 key intentions:
    • __________________________________________
    • __________________________________________
    • __________________________________________

2. Gather Materials:

  • You can create your vision board digitally or manually. Here are some suggested materials:
    • Manual Board: Poster board, magazines, scissors, glue, markers.
    • Digital Board: Canva, Pinterest, or any graphic design tool.

3. Gather Inspiration:

  • Look through magazines, online platforms, or personal photos for images, quotes, and words that resonate with your detox journey.
  • List some themes or symbols you want to include:
    • __________________________________________
    • __________________________________________

4. Create Your Board:

  • Manual Method: Cut out images and words and arrange them on your board. Use markers to write your intentions and draw connections.
  • Digital Method: Open your chosen program, upload images, and arrange them creatively. Use text boxes for intentions and quotes.

5. Personalize:

  • Add colors, stickers, or designs that inspire you. This board should be a reflection of your aspirations!

6. Placement:

  • Once completed, place your vision board somewhere you’ll see it daily (e.g., your workspace, bedroom, or digital wallpaper).

Reflection

  • How do you feel about your vision board?
  • __________________________________________
  • __________________________________________

Commitment to Your Journey

  • Write a letter to yourself, committing to your detox journey and the steps you will take to achieve your vision:
  • __________________________________________
  • __________________________________________

Next Steps

  • Schedule a follow-up session to discuss your vision board and how it aligns with your goals:
  • Date: ______________________________

Feel free to adapt any sections based on your coaching style or specific client needs!

End of Form

Happy Day 4 of Advent!

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Creating a Joke for Christmas Storey Time | Day 3 | Getting Ready for Christmas | Health Storey Holiday Prep |

Collecting Family Stories: A Fun and Meaningful Christmas Tradition

The holiday season is a time for celebration, connection, and, most importantly, sharing memories with loved ones. This Christmas, why not take a unique approach by collecting stories from each family member and presenting them on cards? It’s a delightful way to spark conversation, laughter, and warmth around the dinner table. Here’s how to create your own story cards, featuring both serious tales and light-hearted jokes!

Why Share Stories?

Stories have a magical way of connecting us. They can evoke nostalgia, foster understanding, and create laughter—making them a perfect addition to your holiday festivities. Sharing both serious and humorous stories will provide a rich tapestry of family history and playful banter, ensuring everyone feels included.

Step-by-Step DIY for Collecting and Sharing Stories

Step 1: Engage Family Members

  • Ask for Participation: Reach out to each family member, explaining your plan to collect stories. You can do this in person, via email, or with a fun group chat.
  • Set Guidelines: Request one serious story and one light-hearted story (that can be turned into a joke) from each person.

Step 2: Collecting the Stories

  1. Create a Simple Template:
  • You can provide family members with a simple structure to follow, such as:
    • Serious Story: A memory that holds significance—an impactful lesson, a family tradition, or a heartfelt moment.
    • Joke Story: A funny incident or mishap that can be framed as a light-hearted joke.
  1. Questions to Prompt Stories:
  • For Serious Stories:
    • “What’s a memorable moment from your childhood that shaped who you are today?”
    • “Can you share a meaningful lesson you learned from a tough experience?”
  • For Joke Stories:
    • “What’s a time you found yourself in a funny or awkward situation?”
    • “Have you ever tried cooking a holiday meal that didn’t go quite as planned?”
    • Ask permission from family member to use an embarrasing event to create a joke?

Step 3: Creating the Story Cards

  • Materials Needed:
  • Index cards or decorative cardstock
  • Markers, pens, or colored pencils
  • Optional: Stickers or washi tape for decoration
  • Design Your Cards:
  • Write the serious story on one side of the card and the joke or humorous story on the other side.
  • Add decorative elements for visual interest, like festive designs or family photos.

Step 4: Sharing at Christmas

  • Set the Scene:
  • During your Christmas gathering, create a special moment dedicated to storytelling. Gather everyone around, perhaps near the tree or the dinner table.
  • Pass Around the Cards:
  • Allow each family member to take turns reading their stories aloud. This not only facilitates conversation but also invites discussion about the memories shared.

Making a Family-Friendly Joke

Concept of The Joke:

  • Joke Format: “Have you heard the one about [insert setup]? Well, it happened when [insert punchline].”
  1. Identify the Setup:
  • Choose a humorous incident from your family joke story. For example, “Have you heard the one about Grandma’s famous fruitcake?”
  1. Craft the Punchline:
  • Create a light-hearted punchline that ties back to the setup. For example, “Well, it scared more people than the Grinch ever did!”
  1. Share the Joke:
  • Encourage everyone to work on their punchlines beforehand, allowing for some family-friendly competition and laughter!

This Christmas, collect and share stories that bring your family closer, filled with laughter and warmth. By introducing this fun DIY project, you’ll create a memorable tradition that sparks conversations and strengthens your family bonds. So gather those stories, craft your cards, and get ready for a joyful holiday season filled with love and laughter!

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Schedule A Holiday Movie Night | Day 32 of 60 Holiday Prep|

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and creating lasting memories. This year, why not combine the comfort of a festive movie night with the warmth of friends—near and far—through a Zoom call? Renting a holiday movie adds a touch of excitement to your evening, and with the right dinner menu, you can create the perfect cozy atmosphere. Here’s how to make your holiday movie night unforgettable!

Renting a Holiday Movie

Choosing the Perfect Film

Start by selecting the movie you want to watch. Whether it’s a classic like “Home Alone”, a heartwarming tale like “The Holiday”, or a family-friendly animation like “Elf”, ensure it suits everyone’s taste. Use a rental service such as Amazon Prime, Google Play, or Apple TV to find and rent your chosen movie.

Setting Up Your Zoom Call

  1. Send Invites: Reach out to friends and family a few days before to set a date and time. Include the movie title, rental instructions, and Zoom link.
  2. Pre-Movie Chat: Allow time for everyone to join before the movie starts. This gives everyone a chance to catch up and share their excitement.
  3. Plan Viewing Logistics: Decide whether to use a watch party feature (if available) or to coordinate starting the movie simultaneously.

Food themed with Movie for Holiday Movie Night

Now that you’ve got the movie and the Zoom logistics sorted, let’s talk about the most important part: the food! Here’s a festive dinner menu that’s sure to impress your friends:

Holiday Themed Food

  • Cheese & Charcuterie Board: Assemble a variety of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and nuts. Add festive touches like pomegranate seeds or rosemary sprigs.
  • Winter Salad: Create a refreshing salad using mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a honey-balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crunchy garlic bread to complement your pasta.

Drinks

  • Festive Cocktails or Mocktails: Get creative with holiday-themed drinks, such as a cranberry spritzer or mulled wine. Provide non-alcoholic options as well for those who prefer.

Making the Most of Your Movie Night

  1. Dress Code: Encourage everyone to wear festive attire for a relaxed atmosphere.
  2. Snacks on Hand: Besides the dinner menu, don’t forget the popcorn! Season it with your favorite toppings like cinnamon or caramel.

Renting a holiday movie and connecting with friends over Zoom can be a heartwarming experience filled with laughter, good food, and cherished memories. By planning your movie choice and crafting a delicious dinner menu, you’ll create a cozy and joyful evening that celebrates the spirit of the season. Happy holidays, and enjoy your movie night!

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Wrap Extra Gifts and Presents |Day 30 of 60 | Health Storey Holiday Prep

Holiday Prep Day 30 of 60

Tasks for Today:

Wrap Extra Presents for Charity

  • Gather any gifts you’ve purchased for charitable donations.
  • Use festive wrapping paper and tags to make them more appealing.
  • Consider including a small note encouraging joy and kindness.

Prepare for Extra Guests

  • Assess your seating and dining arrangements.
  • Gather extra serving dishes and utensils.
  • Prepare any additional food items that might be needed.

Double Check Gift List

  • Review your gift list to ensure no one is missed.
  • Confirm that you have all gifts purchased and wrapped.
  • Make a note of any last-minute gifts needed.

Double Check Budget

  • Review your holiday budget to ensure you’re staying on track.
  • Take into account any last-minute purchases or expenses.
  • Adjust if necessary to avoid overspending.

Make a Contact List of Email Addresses

Collect email addresses for your guest list:

  • Family
  • Friends
  • Co-workers
  • Neighbors

Use a spreadsheet or a note app for easy access to information. Consider adding a column for RSVP status if relevant, what kind of presents you are gifting, relationship to the person and location of the person.

Sample Contact List Template ( This can be created in Numbers or Excell or Google Sheets)

4 or more columns: names, email addresses, Relationship, Location etc.

NameEmail AddressRelationshipLocation
John Doejohndoe@email.comFriendLocal
Jane Smithjanesmith@email.comFamilyHometown
Bob Johnsonbobjohnson@email.comCo-workerNYC
………

Tips for Organization

  • Digital Lists: Utilize a tool like Google Sheets or Excel for easy updates and accessibility.
  • Physical Copies: Print out the contact list for reference during planning and communications with family and friends.
  • Regular Updates: Check and update your list as guests RSVP or if you add more people. Duplicate the main list to use for events.

Stay organized today, and you’ll set yourself up for a joyful and stress-free holiday season ahead if you decided to plan events or group festive gatherings.