Listen, being healthy isn’t just about getting your steps in or swapping fries for kale (although both are great). It’s about taking charge of your whole self—mind, body, and soul. And one of the easiest ways to do that? Schedule your health appointments now. I’m talking physicals, dentist cleanings, and yes, that mammogram you’ve been putting off. Trust me, this small step can make a huge difference. Let’s chat about why this should be at the top of your list.

Why You Should Schedule Health Appointments at the Beginning of the Year

Let’s be honest: it’s easy to let health appointments slide. When you’re young—or young-ish—you expect to be healthy because you’ve always been healthy. So skipping a physical or two doesn’t seem like a big deal. Between the demands of work, family, and trying to keep your plants alive (just me?), that dental cleaning or annual physical can feel like a low priority. But here’s the thing: staying on top of your health isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about taking control of your well-being and potentially saving your life.

When you schedule your health appointments early in the year, you’re making a commitment to yourself. You’re setting the tone that your health matters. Plus, the earlier you book, the better chance you’ll have of securing a time that fits your schedule.

Proactive Health is Self-Care

Preventative care—whether it’s a routine physical, dental cleaning, or mammogram—is about catching potential issues before they become bigger problems. It’s about giving yourself the gift of peace of mind.

Trust me, staying on top of your health could potentially save your life. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I couldn’t believe it—because I had always been diligent about my health, it was caught early. If I hadn’t stayed on top of my appointments, I could be in a much different situation now. Early detection is one of the most significant factors in successfully treating illnesses like cancer. Scheduling that mammogram or physical isn’t just a chore—it’s an investment in your future.

Tips for Getting Those Appointments on the Books

1. Make a List: Or, use this one! Here's a starter list to get you going:

• Physical exam
• Dentist appointment (cleaning or any outstanding work)
• OB-GYN check-up
• Eye exam
• Dermatologist visit (mole check, skincare concerns)
• Cardiologist or specialist follow-ups
• Mammogram (if applicable)

2. Block Time on Your Calendar: Treat these like the important meetings they are. Book a few hours for each appointment so you’re not rushing. Need help staying organized? Use tools like Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, or even AI assistants like Siri and Alexa to remind you and automatically update your schedule. Some apps, like MyChart or Zocdoc, can even send appointment reminders directly to your phone.
3. Schedule During Quiet Months: January and February are often less hectic, so take advantage of that time to get these tasks done.
4. Ask for Recommendations: If you’re unsure about a provider, ask friends or family for referrals. Don’t be afraid to switch if you’re not comfortable with your current one. I love all my doctors and, save one, they’re all Black women. They listen to me, they have amazing bedside manner, and they genuinely care about me and their other patients. I believe that is the level of care we should all expect from our providers. If you’re in Atlanta and in need of care, my primary physician is Dr. Danielle Glaesar, my OB-GYN is Dr. Barbara Simmons, my oncologist is Dr. Demetria Joy Smith-Graziani, MD, MPH, and my breast health provider is Dr. Erin Bowman. Reach out to their offices for compassionate and top-notch care.

Start Small if You Need To

If booking everything at once feels overwhelming, start with just one appointment. Maybe it’s the one you’ve been putting off the longest or the one that feels the most urgent. Once you’ve tackled that, it’ll be easier to keep the momentum going.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Health a Priority

Your health is your foundation. Taking care of it means you’ll have more energy, more peace of mind, and more time for the people and things you love. So, pull out your calendar, pick up your phone, and schedule that physical, dentist appointment, or mammogram today. Future you will thank you for it—promise.

What’s the first appointment you’re booking this year? Drop it in the comments and let’s keep each other accountable!

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