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Gemma Perry

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February 3, 2025

How To Build Healthy Habits That Actually Stick This Year

Every January, the cycle begins: big goals, ambitious resolutions, and the hope that this will finally be the year you stick to your plans. Fast forward a few weeks, and for many of us, life gets busy, motivation wanes, and those good intentions fall by the wayside.

But what if you approached it differently this time? Building healthy habits that actually stick isn’t about willpower or perfection, it’s about strategy and mindset. Here’s how to make this the year you create real, lasting change.

1. Start small, think big

The biggest mistake people make is trying to overhaul everything all at once. Cutting out all sugar, hitting the gym six days a week, or vowing to meditate for an hour every morning might sound great, but it’s rarely sustainable.

Instead, pick one or two small habits to focus on. For example:

  • Add a vegetable to one meal each day.
  • Take a 10 minute walk after dinner.
  • Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.

These small wins build momentum and lay the groundwork for bigger changes over time.

2. Anchor new habits to existing routines

One of the easiest ways to make a habit stick is to tie it to something you’re already doing. This is called “habit stacking.”

For example:

  • While your coffee brews, write down three things you’re grateful for.
  • After brushing your teeth, do 10 squats.
  • When you sit down to watch TV, set a timer to stretch during the adverts.

By anchoring habits to existing routines, they feel natural and less overwhelming.

3. Focus on consistency, not perfection

Here’s the truth: You’re not going to nail every habit every day, and that’s okay. What matters most is consistency over time, not perfection.

If you miss a workout or indulge in some extra chocolate, don’t throw in the towel. Instead, remind yourself that one slip-up doesn’t undo your progress. The goal is to get back on track the next day, no guilt required.

4. Make It easy

The easier a habit is to do, the more likely you are to stick with it. Remove barriers and set yourself up for success:

  • Lay out your workout clothes the night before.
  • Keep healthy snacks visible and accessible.
  • Prep meals ahead of time so you’re not scrambling when you’re hungry.

Small changes to your environment can make a big difference in sticking to your habits.

5. Celebrate your progress

Recognising your achievements, no matter how small, keeps you motivated. Celebrate each step forward:

  • Hit your water goal for the week? Treat yourself to a new water bottle.
  • Completed your workouts for the month? Plan a fun activity with friends.

Positive reinforcement helps cement those habits and keeps you feeling encouraged.

This year can be different

Building healthy habits that last isn’t about doing it all at once or doing it perfectly. It’s about creating a system that works for you - one that fits your lifestyle, your goals, and your needs.

This year, focus on small, sustainable changes, and watch how those habits grow into something powerful. The best part? You’re building a foundation for health and well-being that will carry you through every season of life.

Ready to start? Choose one small habit today, and commit to taking that first step. You’ve got this!

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