The New Year. A fresh start. A blank slate. The perfect time to revamp your habits.
But let’s be honest: how many of us have set resolutions only to abandon them by February?
Creating a routine that sticks isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about consistency, sustainability, and a bit of planning. Here’s how to make those healthy habits last all year…
Step 1: Start small and be specific
One of the biggest mistakes with New Year’s resolutions is trying to change too much at once.
Instead of saying, “I want to get fit this year,” break it down into actionable steps like, “I’ll do a 30-minute workout three times a week.”
Small, specific goals feel less overwhelming and are easier to stick to. Plus, every little win builds confidence and momentum. Goal setting is important, so make sure you do it right.
Step 2: Habit stack
Want to make a new habit stick? Attach it to something you already do. For example:
- Drink a glass of water right after brushing your teeth.
- Do 10 minutes of stretching after your morning coffee.
- Prep a healthy lunch while you’re making dinner.
This strategy, known as “habit stacking,” works because it builds on routines you’re already familiar with.
Step 3: Plan ahead
Life gets busy and progressing with your goals can often fall behind. That’s why planning is key.
If you want to exercise more, schedule your workouts into your calendar like any other appointment. Meal prepping on Sundays can save you from last-minute unhealthy choices during the week.
The more you plan, the less you’ll rely on willpower alone.
Step 4: Track your progress
Keeping track of your habits can be incredibly motivating. Whether it’s crossing off days on a calendar, using a habit tracker app, or journaling your progress, seeing how far you’ve come can give you the push to keep going.
Step 5: Expect and embrace setbacks
No one’s perfect, and slip-ups are part of the process. The important thing is not to let one missed workout or indulgent meal derail your entire routine. Instead, focus on getting back on track as soon as possible. Progress is more important than perfection.
Step 6: Be patient
Remember, building a new routine takes time. Research suggests it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days to form a habit, depending on the person and behavior. Give yourself grace and celebrate the small victories along the way.
This New Year, skip the unrealistic expectations and focus on creating a routine that works for you. With small, actionable steps, a bit of planning, and a lot of patience, you’ll build habits that last far beyond January.
If you need any more help with this, get in touch and we can come up with some goals and ways to action them together.
