As the new year approaches, many of us feel motivated to set resolutions. But resolutions often come with high expectations and, unfortunately, a short shelf life. At The Denman Homestead, we’ve found that focusing on small, consistent habits rather than one big resolution can create meaningful, lasting change. Here’s how to take a different approach this year by building better habits, with examples and practical steps for success.
Why Habits Matter More Than Resolutions
Resolutions are typically goals we set for ourselves, like “exercise every day” or “eat healthier.” While the intentions are good, these goals often don’t account for the process it takes to achieve them. Habits, on the other hand, are small, repeatable actions that gradually lead us toward our goals over time. When you focus on forming better habits, you’re building a foundation for sustainable, positive change that lasts.
Step 1: Start Small and Choose One Habit
When setting out to build a new habit, start with one small change rather than a major overhaul. Choose one area of your life you’d like to improve, whether it’s health, productivity, mindfulness, or relationships, and create a small habit around it.
Examples:
- Instead of “I’m going to get in shape,” try “I’m going to take a 10-minute walk each morning.”
- Instead of “I’m going to eat healthier,” try “I’m going to eat one piece of fruit every day.”
- Instead of “I’m going to read more,” try “I’m going to read 10 pages before bed.”
The Denman Homestead tip: Write down your chosen habit and put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. This small visual cue will remind you of your goal and keep you on track. For me, I like to use a dry erase marker on my bathroom mirror.
Step 2: Set Up a Trigger or Cue
To create a lasting habit, pair it with something you already do daily. This “trigger” can help remind you to practice your habit, making it more likely to stick. For example, if you want to practice gratitude daily, tie it to a routine you already follow, like brushing your teeth or making coffee.
Examples:
- Want to start meditating? Do it right after you wake up.
- Trying to drink more water? Drink a glass each time you sit down to eat.
- Hoping to stretch more? Stretch for five minutes after you brush your teeth.
The Denman Homestead tip: Try to connect your new habit to a trigger that’s already firmly in place. This way, you’re not relying on memory alone to keep it going. For me, I head straight to the gym after I drop the kids off to school.
Step 3: Keep It Manageable
It’s easy to start strong, but going too big too soon can lead to burnout. Keeping your habit small and achievable will make it easier to stick to, especially on busy or challenging days. I am NOT going to lie- I struggle with this one BIG time, so this is something I will be personally focusing on in the new year.
Examples:
- Instead of aiming for 30 minutes of exercise every day, start with five or 10 minutes.
- If you want to journal daily, start with writing one sentence each morning.
- Interested in cooking more meals at home? Start with one or two nights a week instead of every day.
The Denman Homestead tip: Remember, consistency is more important than intensity. Small habits add up, and over time, they can grow into larger, impactful changes.
Step 4: Track Your Progress
Tracking your habit can give you a sense of accomplishment and help you stay consistent. This doesn’t have to be complicated—a simple calendar or journal where you mark each day you complete your habit is enough to see your progress. I use my phone calendar to create tasks and to-do lists. I have it with me everywhere I go and it gives me reminders and alarms.
Examples:
- Use a calendar or habit-tracking app to mark each day you accomplish your goal.
- Keep a small notebook or bullet journal with a page dedicated to tracking your habit.
- Use a checklist or a physical item (like placing a pebble in a jar) to visually represent your progress.
The Denman Homestead tip: Tracking doesn’t need to be perfect. If you miss a day, don’t worry—just pick it up again the next day. Tracking is a tool for motivation, not perfection.
Step 5: Reward Yourself for Staying Consistent
Habits are easier to maintain when there’s a reward, even if it’s something small. Rewards help our brains recognize that the habit is beneficial and enjoyable, which makes it more likely to stick.
Examples:
- Enjoy a cup of your favorite tea after completing your daily walk.
- Give yourself a small treat (like watching an episode of a favorite show) if you complete your habit every day for a week.
- Take a moment to reflect on how good it feels to be making progress—acknowledging the effort is a reward in itself.
The Denman Homestead tip: Rewards can be anything that makes you feel happy and satisfied. They don’t need to be big or expensive; a simple “well done” moment can be just as rewarding.
Step 6: Evaluate and Adjust as Needed
Sometimes, our initial plans need tweaking. As you go along, take time to reflect on how your habit fits into your life. If you find it’s challenging or that you need more motivation, consider adjusting your approach to make it easier.
Examples:
- If a 10-minute walk each morning feels rushed, try moving it to lunchtime or after dinner.
- If reading 10 pages a day feels too ambitious, adjust it to five pages.
- If you’re not enjoying a habit, try to understand why—maybe a different approach or type of activity would suit you better.
The Denman Homestead tip: Don’t be afraid to make changes. Your habits should work for you, not against you. Adjustments are part of the process and help make the habit more sustainable.
Need some inspiration? Here are a few simple habits that can make a big difference:
- Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to start your day hydrated.
- Practice gratitude by writing down three things you’re thankful for each day.
- Read for 10 minutes before bed to wind down and enjoy more books throughout the year.
- Go to bed at a consistent time each night for better sleep and more energy.
- Eat one homemade meal daily to add more nutrition and mindful eating into your routine.
- Move your body every day, whether it’s a quick stretch, a walk, or a few minutes of exercise.
Building Habits for a Better New Year
Habits are the building blocks of long-term change, and small steps can lead to big progress over time. By focusing on one manageable habit instead of a lofty resolution, you’re giving yourself a better chance at making this new year truly transformative. At The Denman Homestead, we believe in starting small, staying consistent, and celebrating each step forward.
Happy New Year from all of us, and here’s to a year of lasting, positive habits!
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