I used to be big on New Years resolutions. I’d pick a grand goal and make some lifestyle changes and and build a routine. Unfortunately, as realistic challenges come in, and my daily routine shifts, I wouldn’t be able to tell you what my resolution was by mid-March.
In recent years, I’ve adjusted how I approached new goals to make them achievable and sustainable. To bring in changes that I am passionate about, I created a system for myself to track my current daily habits and how I adapt to new habits that I introduce.
Revising my habit system:
- Kept it under 7 habits per week.
- Connecting habits to what brings me joy.
- Structured my mindset to “I don’t have to, I get to.”
In the two years that I’ve done this practice, here are my rituals and tips if you want to revamp your goals and resolutions.
Reassess frequently.
I adjust my goals three times a year (January, March, October) This gives me the opportunity to understand what is working, what is not working, and go from there.
My Imperfect Morning Habit: Breakfast
Most of my mornings are a rush to start the work day, which can occasionally result in an unhealthy breakfast or no breakfast at all. To automate this important meal of the day, I meal prep ahead so that I do not have to think about it. In recent months, my favorite breakfast is homemade egg frittatas that I bake in advance and freeze, so that all I need to do is air-fry them in the morning. I’ve now maintained this habit for seven months.
Expand on a habit already in place.
Do you have somewhat of a routine going, but want to do more? Analyze what works really well for you and see where you can expand on it.
My Imperfect Morning Habit: Journaling
Currently, I am one month into the 5 Minute Journal, which is a short and sweet gratitude journal that sets my intention for the day and then closes out my evening before bedtime. This habit started from my time with the Artist’s Way last fall, where I had to journal every day for 12 weeks first thing in the morning. This practice resonated with me so much that wanted to continue on at a manageable scale.
A habit doesn’t not have to be done consecutively.
Going into this understanding that life is different every day, and I will need to miss a day and overwhelming myself with ‘I didn’t do this today’ isn’t going to help my goals.
My Imperfect Morning Habit: Workout
I do not exercise daily, but when I do fit it into my schedule, my day is so much better. I change things up by either taking a morning barre or pilates class, or hop onto my Peloton. At home exercise give me the benefit of moving on with my day quicker, yet going out for workouts allows opportunities for fresh air.
Habits can be adjusted.
Your habits do not have to be in the exact same way each time. They can be in different forms, lengths, and spaces. The flexibility can be beneficial to maintain consistency.
My Imperfect Morning Habit: Meditation
I devote 5 – 30 minutes of a guided meditation in a different space from my bedroom. This takes me out of sleep mode, and eases me into waking up. The length of the meditation changes based on the time I have available and this flexibility allows it to be a daily practice.
Habits can be seasonal.
Whether you live in a place that has four seasons or your schedule changes throughout the year, you can adjust to your new schedule or lifestyle during that period of time.
My Imperfect Morning Habit: Outdoor Walking
I generally walk 3 miles a day while I am out, why not do this 5–6 times a week or take longer detours if I have extra time during the warmer months. I definitely take advantage of the outdoors when I am able to.
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