Why delay creating a happier, healthier you? Rather than wait until January 1st to start working towards your fitness goals, you can start making small changes now. You will feel more energetic and refreshed during the holidays, instead of the usual exhaustion that follows a month of planning and shopping. Try these three tips: 1) Plan a holiday meal that includes local produce. This will not only improve the nutritional quality of your feast, but will help out local growers and businesses. For busy folks, there are many great options to have local foods delivered right to your door, such as The Produce Box and Go Local Produce . 2) Plan to get outdoors for the holidays. We all love sitting indoors and watching holiday specials, but consider planning a few family activities that will get you up and moving. You can get out to events such as First Night Raleigh . You can help out a good cause by participating in Tour De Toys , a leisurely bike ride benefiting the Women’s Center of Wake County. 3) Commit yourself to a New Year’s 5k, and start training for it. Don't worry if you can’t run the whole race on the first try. The act of setting a goal and training for it will motivate you to make slightly healthier choices during the feasting and snoozing that usually accompany the holiday season. There are several great options in the Raleigh/Durham area, including the Commitment Day 5k on January 1st in Cary, NC, the 1st Day 5k in Greensboro, and Hot Chocolate Run/SPCA Doggie Dash on January 3rd in Cary. And of course, most Camden communities offer fitness centers, ample sidewalks, and outdoor recreation. According to Forbes Magazine, only 8% of people actually stick to their New Year's resolutions.  This season, give yourself the gift of a head start.