Building Healthy Habits That Stick
Our Top Tips for Building Healthy Habits: Make Every Day Count
As moms, we know how easy it is to put everyone else’s needs before our own. Between school runs, meal prep, and endless to-do lists, it can feel impossible to make time for the habits that fuel our well-being. But here’s the thing: healthy habits are essential for not just surviving but thriving as a mom, partner, and individual.
Whether you're aiming for a fitness routine, better nutrition, or more mindful moments, creating habits that stick doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Today, we’re sharing our top tips for building healthy habits that can make a big difference in your daily life.
1. Start Small and Build Gradually
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to build a new habit is going too big too fast. It’s easy to get excited about creating change, but starting with small, manageable steps is the key to success.
For example, if you want to start working out, don’t aim for an hour every day from the get-go. Start with 10 minutes of movement and gradually increase it as you get used to the routine. Small wins lead to big progress over time.
2. Make It Part of Your Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to habits. The more you can tie a new habit to something that’s already part of your daily routine, the easier it will be to stick to it.
Morning habit: If you want to incorporate stretching or journaling into your mornings, try doing it immediately after brushing your teeth.
Post-lunch habit: If you’re aiming to drink more water, make it a habit to drink a glass right after lunch.
By linking a new habit to something you already do automatically, you’re less likely to forget or skip it.
3. Set Realistic Goals
It’s important to be realistic about your goals. Setting an achievable target will keep you motivated and help you track progress. Be kind to yourself and understand that small setbacks are a part of the process.
For example, if your goal is to read more, try setting aside 10 minutes a day instead of aiming for an entire book in a week. Breaking things down into bite-sized goals makes them less intimidating and more attainable.
4. Celebrate Your Wins (No Matter How Small)
Every time you hit a milestone, no matter how small, take a moment to celebrate! Whether it’s sticking to your morning routine for a week or simply getting through a busy day while feeling calm, acknowledging your wins is important.
Celebrating your progress not only boosts motivation but also helps solidify your habits. You’re much more likely to continue a habit when you celebrate the effort you’ve put in.
5. Make It Enjoyable
If the habit feels like a chore, you’re less likely to stick with it. Make the new habit something you enjoy, and it will feel much easier to keep up.
If you’re trying to eat healthier, experiment with recipes that excite you instead of forcing yourself into strict meal plans you don’t enjoy.
If exercising feels like a drag, find an activity you love! Dance, yoga, or hiking with friends can be just as effective as a traditional workout, but way more fun.
When you enjoy the process, you’re more likely to keep it going.
6. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building lasting habits. Reward yourself for sticking to your goal, whether it’s with something small like a cup of your favorite tea after finishing your workout or a special treat for completing a month of healthy eating.
By associating your habit with something positive, your brain begins to make that connection, reinforcing the behavior you want to continue.
7. Hold Yourself Accountable
Accountability can make all the difference when it comes to habit-building. Whether it’s a friend, a partner, or an online community, having someone to check in with can keep you on track.
Share your goals with your spouse or a close friend, and let them know how they can help support you.
Join a habit-building community online where you can celebrate each other’s wins and share struggles.
Accountability partners can offer encouragement and remind you of why you started.
8. Don’t Be Hard on Yourself
Life happens, and there will be days when you don’t stick to your habit. It’s important to forgive yourself and get back on track without guilt. Building habits is a journey, not a race.
Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small. The key is to keep going and not let one missed day derail your efforts.
9. Track Your Progress
Tracking your progress is a great way to stay motivated and see how far you’ve come. Whether it’s through a journal, an app, or a simple checklist, keeping tabs on your habits allows you to stay focused on your goals.
Looking back at the progress you’ve made will help remind you of why you started and motivate you to keep going.
Final Thoughts
Building healthy habits doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s okay to take your time. Start small, be consistent, and celebrate every little victory along the way. With the right mindset and a few practical tips, you can create habits that not only improve your life but also give you the energy, clarity, and joy to be the best version of yourself as a mom.
What habits are you working on building? Let us know in the comments or tag us on Instagram @bougiemomfriends to share your progress with our community!
Start today, and remember: small habits can lead to big changes. Take it one step at a time, and soon, you’ll be living a life full of healthy routines that serve you and your family.
