The holidays are right around the corner…
Have you mapped out your plan so you can take some real downtime this year?
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been with my family during the holiday…
But instead of being present, my mind was racing with all the things I had to do for my business.
It’s not a fun place to be.
But here’s the good news: you can do something about that now.
That’s exactly why I put together this December Marketing & Strategy Checklist (below) — to help you get organized, tie up loose ends, and actually enjoy some time with your family and friends without worrying about work.
NOTE: You don’t have to do everything on this list below. These are just ideas. Do what makes sense for YOU, your BUSINESS, and your CLIENTS.
DECEMBER MARKETING & PROMOTIONS CHECKLIST
- Presell Your 2025 Programs: Focus on New Year transformation challenges, memberships, or workshops with irresistible early-bird offers.
- Create a New Year Marketing Funnel: Finalize all marketing assets for your New Year promotions — including social posts, ads, email sequences, and follow-up flows. Build or update an automated funnel to capture leads and nurture them effectively. Don’t forget to set deadlines and plan your follow-ups! (Need help?)
- Run a Charity Challenge or Workout: The price of admission could be a toy, non-perishable food, or a small donation.
- Strategize for January Social Media Content: Plan out Reels, posts, and stories that align with people’s renewed focus on health and fitness. Use short-form video trends to grab attention.
- Offer Holiday “Flash Sales” or Bundles: Fitmas “Gift Cards for Goals” or special holiday packages are perfect for last-minute shoppers
- Client Reactivations: Reach out to former clients to bring them back before the New Year rush.
DECEMBER CONTENT CHECKLIST
- Plan & Schedule Your December Content: Focus on high-value, short-form posts like quick holiday stress-relief tips, “How-To” Reels, and engaging carousels… that ALL align with your marketing strategy. (If you need a strategy and templates to help you save time, I’ve got you covered)
- Share Behind-the-Scenes Content: Post videos or photos of you prepping for the holidays or getting ready for 2025 to add excitement (and connection)!
- Prep for January Launches (fulfillment): Finalize all materials for New Year programs — client guides, email templates, success manuals, and any onboarding processes.
- Schedule December Emails: Plan and schedule your email nurture and marketing campaigns to keep your audience engaged. Ideas: a holiday gratitude message, promotions for gift cards or challenges, and teasers for your January offers.
- Highlight Client Wins: Create posts or stories celebrating your client successes from 2024 — to build authority and inspires others!
COMMUNITY & CONNECTION CHECKLIST
- Post Your Holiday Schedule. Give clients plenty of notice to plan ahead.
- Create an Appreciation Tree. Make cut-outs of paper leaves and have your clients and team members either post something they were grateful for this year or something they learned.
- Santa’s Dozen “Accountability” Challenge. To help clients stay on track, offer them a gift (tee-shirt, etc.) after they complete 12 workouts in December. It’s amazing how something like a simple branded water bottle can be so motivating!
- Create a Goal Wall. Have your clients and team post their 2025 goals on a wall at your studio (or virtually in a group thread)! This creates inspiration AND accountability. (Don’t forget to post yours!)
- Plan a Vision Board Party for 2025: Help clients map out their health, fitness, and LIFE goals for the year!
- Client Cards/Gifts. Get your cards out THIS WEEK (or next) if you’re sending them.
- Get the Love Flowing: Ask clients to leave reviews on Facebook or Google — their wins could inspire your next big client!
TEAM CHECKLIST
- Plan 2025 Kickoff Team Meeting: Review successes, set new goals, and share your vision for the year.
- Create Team Incentives for January: Motivate your team with bonuses or rewards for hitting retention or sales targets during the busy New Year season.
- Celebrate with a Holiday Breakfast/Dinner or Secret Santa: Always fun!
- Schedule Coverage: Make sure your December and January schedule is fully covered to keep everything running smoothly. (We don’t want any surprises.)
- Show Your Appreciation! You don’t have to break the bank — small, thoughtful gifts (like homemade treats or something personal) paired with a handwritten holiday card can make a big impact. If you’re giving bonuses, have your plan ready to go.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
- Set Your Auto-Replies & Boundaries: Let clients know when you’ll be available and when you’re unplugging during the holidays.
- Set the Stage for 2025: Define your values, craft a clear vision, and set ACTIONABLE goals to start the year with purpose and momentum.
- Refresh Your Offers for 2025: Update pricing, program details, and packaging to reflect your vision for the New Year. (If needed)
- Schedule Personal & Family Time: Block off “non-negotiable” time top shop, spend time with family, and to recharge before the New Year rush.
Remember, this checklist isn’t about doing everything. It’s a guide to help you focus on what makes the most sense for YOU, your BUSINESS, and your CLIENTS.
When you plan ahead and take action, you’ll feel so much more organized — and actually enjoy the holidays with less stress.
Here’s to a productive (and peaceful) December,
Alicia
