How to Stick to Your Healthy Habits

We all have the best intentions when starting a new habit, but sticking to them can be the real challenge. Life gets busy, motivation dips, hormones sway us, and suddenly those new habits slip away.

 

The key to success lies not just in choosing the right habits but also in creating a structure that makes them easy to maintain. Here are some practical tips to help you commit to your healthy habits and make them part of your daily life.

  

 

 Set Yourself Up for Success

 

One of the biggest reasons habits fail is that they don’t align with who we are or the season of life we’re in. Before you start, reflect on why you want to form this habit. Is it meaningful to you? Does it make sense with your current lifestyle? When your habits are in line with your personal goals and values, they’re much easier to stick to.

 

Journaling Prompts: 

• What are the habits I’m trying to build, and why do they matter to me?

• How will these habits improve my life and wellbeing?

 

 

Choose When You Will Do Your New Habit

 

Once you’ve chosen a habit, the next step is figuring out when you’ll do it. This may seem obvious, but creating a clear plan can make all the difference. A powerful strategy is habit stacking—pairing your new habit with something you already do every day. Think of it like washing your hands after using the bathroom—it’s a routine that comes naturally because they go hand in hand. For example, if you’re trying to build a habit of journaling, you could do it with your morning coffee. If you’re working on a new exercise routine, always go on the drive home from work. Linking your habit to an established routine makes it harder to forget and easier to do.

 

 Journaling Prompts:

• What is an activity I already do every day that I can link this new habit to?

• What is my back up time to do the habit?

• What time of day works best for me to consistently practice this habit?

 

 Make It Enjoyable

 

Let’s face it—if something isn’t enjoyable, it’s not going to happen for long. To increase your chances of success, find ways to make your habit fun or rewarding. When we create a positive association with something we are more likely to do it.

 

Maybe you invite a friend to join you in your new habit so you can stay accountable and encourage each other. Or, add an element of celebration by marking your progress with something as simple as a sticker chart (yes, adults can enjoy those too!). Rewards don’t have to be big, but acknowledging your progress helps reinforce the habit. Whether it’s giving yourself a gold star on your calendar or treating yourself to something special after hitting a milestone, make sure you’re celebrating your wins along the way.

 

Journaling Prompts: 

• How can I make this habit enjoyable for myself? 

• What small rewards can I give myself for sticking to my habit?

 

Start Small and Build Momentum

 

It’s tempting to dive in headfirst with a huge goal, but starting small is more effective for long-term success. By setting tiny, manageable goals, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed, and you’ll start building confidence as you make progress. For example, if your goal is to meditate daily, begin with just two minutes a day and gradually increase the time as it becomes more natural. Small wins create momentum, and that momentum will help you stick to your habits long after the initial motivation fades.

 

Journaling Prompts:

• What is the smallest version of this habit I can commit to every day?

• How can I gradually increase this habit over time?

 

 Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself

 

It’s normal to miss a day or two—don’t let that be the reason you give up all together. Instead, we use those days as valuable feedback. Get curious, what didn’t work? How did it make me feel? Where did I get stuck? The key is to have compassion and curiosity. The days we don’t do it are just as valuable. We can learn more about ourselves and what we need to succeed. If you stumble, acknowledge it, and simply start again the next day. Getting back up and starting again is strength in itself.  Consistency is key, but consistency doesn’t mean perfection. Celebrate the effort you’re putting in, and recognise that building new habits takes time.

 

Journaling Prompts:

• How do I respond when I miss a day?

• How can I show myself more kindness in those moments?

• What is my plan to get back on track if I miss a day?

 

 

 

Building healthy habits is a journey, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can make those habits stick. By setting yourself up for success, creating a structure that works for you, and finding ways to enjoy the process, you’ll soon see those small actions creating positive ripples throughout your life.   Remember, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about showing up consistently, one day at a time.