How to Stick to New Habits

If you want to incorporate new habits into your routine, the beginning is often easy, but 
being consistent is where it becomes challenging. Here are some helpful tips for 
actually sticking to your new habits.


Start with Manageable Goals

One of the most effective ways to stick to new habits is to start small. It's tempting to 
dive in headfirst with big, ambitious goals, but this can quickly become overwhelming. If 
you want to start running, for example, you might begin by walking and slowly adding 
short bursts of running. The idea is to make your new habit so easy that you can't say 
no.


Consistency Over Intensity

It's easy to let enthusiasm lead to intensity, but it's consistency that truly forms habits. 
Whether it's exercise, healthy eating, or learning a new skill, it's better to do a little every 
day than to go hard one day and burn out the next. Consistency helps ingrain the habit 
into your daily routine.


Use Reminders and Triggers

Reminders can be a great tool to help establish new habits. This could be a sticky note 
on your bathroom mirror, an alert on your phone, or even an existing habit. For 
example, if you're trying to drink more water, you might place a glass of water next to 
your coffee maker as a reminder to drink a glass of water when you make your morning 
coffee.


Set Clear, Measurable Goals

When creating new habits, it's important to have clear, measurable goals. Instead of 
saying "I want to read more", say "I want to read for 20 minutes each night before bed". 
This clarity allows you to track your progress, which can be incredibly motivating.


Make it Enjoyable

If you enjoy something, you're more likely to do it. Find ways to make your new habit 
fun. This could be listening to your favorite podcast while you exercise, cooking a new 
recipe as part of your healthy eating plan, or rewarding yourself with a relaxing bath 
after a productive day.


Be Patient

Habits take time to form. It's normal to experience setbacks and obstacles along the 
way. The key is to be patient with yourself and keep going. If you miss a day, don't dwell 
on it. Instead, focus on getting back on track the next day.


Find a Support System

Having a support system can help you stick to your new habits. This could be a friend 
with similar goals, a family member, or an online community. They can provide 
encouragement, share tips, and celebrate your successes with you.


Sticking to new habits can be challenging, but with these strategies, it's entirely 
achievable. The key is to start small, be consistent, and make the process enjoyable. 
Remember, the goal isn't perfection, but progress. Every step you take towards your 
new habit, no matter how small, is a victory.
