The “Fresh Start” Trap (and how to avoid it.)


I see this every New Year: A client shows up to their onboarding call, eyes bright with determination. They’ve emptied out their pantry of every “bad” food in favor of fresh-cut veggies, splurged $200 on some new LuLu leggings, and meticulously planned their new 5 am workout routine.

I’ve felt that excitement, that rush of believing “this time will be different.”

But here’s the thing: two weeks later, the strict meal plan will be abandoned, the early morning alarm snoozed, and the workout pants will start gathering dust in the back of the closet, waiting for that motivation to resurface.

Sound familiar?

Here’s what nobody talks about - the “fresh start effect,” the magical feeling of possibility and a clean slate — it wears off.

This is exactly why 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February. We try and overhaul everything all at once. At first, you’re excited, and it feels fun and new, but then your brain starts to feel the trap of restriction, the rules, the discipline, and it gets a little claustrophobic. And everything you’ve started goes out the window because it’s too much, too hard, too soon.

But here’s the twist: while you want to avoid this impending overwhelm, the “fresh start” energy can actually serve you if you do it right.

Instead of a whole life overhaul, try this:

Take 10 minutes to dream about your future self. What does a day in your life feel like? What behaviors have you implemented that come naturally now? Future Pacing like this has actually been shown to help increase follow-through.

Then, come out of the clouds and get SUPER realistic about what is actually possible. Start small: pick ONE habit.

In my experience, I’ve found the two game-changers that have the most impact on every area of your health are:

  • building a movement practice and
  • mastering a protein-packed breakfast.

These two habits affect your energy, focus, and ability to make better choices throughout your day, which will have a compounding long-term effect.

Looking ahead: I’m putting the finishing touches on something special that will help you master these exact habits. It’s dropping later in January, and I designed it specifically for people who are done with the all-or-nothing cycle.

So, as we get closer to the New Year, consider what singular behavior change you want to make for your health.

Cheers,

Morgan

P.S. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by failed fresh starts, you’re not alone. The problem isn’t your willpower - it’s your strategy. Stay tuned for a game-changing approach to sustainable transformation.

Morgan E. Shepherd NBC-HWC

Stop self-sabotage, Master nutrition & movement to lose fat, gain muscle, get your energy back & finally feel confident! Subscribe to my Newsletter for tangible takeaways and exclusive personal stories to inspire and empower you on your transformational journey.

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