Consistency is Key: How Small Steps Add Up Over Time
- mloucks912
- Dec 18, 2024
- 3 min read
As we wrap up this year, it’s time to reflect on the progress you’ve made and the lessons you’ve learned. Building a healthier lifestyle isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up for yourself consistently. Some days you’ll feel like you’re crushing your goals, and other days, doing your personal best may look entirely different—and that’s okay.
Reflect on Your Journey
Take a moment to think about the small shifts you’ve incorporated over this year or the past few months. Maybe you’ve improved your sleep, added more whole foods to your meals, or found joy in a new form of movement. Even the tiniest changes add up over time to create meaningful progress.
Now consider:
What’s worked well for you?
What challenges have you faced?
How do you feel compared to before you made the changes?
Reflection is a powerful tool to help you acknowledge your wins and identify areas for improvement.
Progress Over Perfection
Life happens. Some days you might miss a workout, skip meal prep, or stay up too late scrolling on your phone. It’s important to remember: one off day doesn’t erase all your progress. Each day is a new opportunity to make choices that align with your goals.
Instead of letting setbacks derail you, ask yourself:
What caused me to get off track?
What can I do differently next time to stay consistent?
The goal isn’t to never miss a day; it’s to keep coming back to your habits, even after a stumble.
How to Stay Consistent with Healthy Lifestyle Shifts
Anchor Your Habits to Existing Routines Use habit stacking to build new habits into your daily life. For example:
After brushing your teeth, drink a glass of water.
After your morning coffee, write down three things you’re grateful for.
After dinner, take a 10-minute walk.
Set Realistic, Flexible Goals Aim for progress, not perfection. Instead of saying, “I’ll work out for an hour every day,” start with, “I’ll move my body for 15 minutes most days.” Adjust your goals to fit your schedule, energy, and circumstances.
Track Your Wins, Not Just Your Goals Celebrate the small victories, like eating a healthy breakfast, getting to bed on time, or saying no to something that doesn’t serve your goals. Keeping a journal or checklist can help you see how far you’ve come.
Plan for Obstacles Life will throw curveballs, but having a plan helps you stay on track. If you know you’re going to be busy, prep meals in advance or schedule a shorter workout. If you miss a step, give yourself grace and get back on track the next day.
Find Accountability Share your goals with a friend, family member, or coach. Knowing someone is cheering you on or working toward similar goals can help keep you motivated and consistent.
Consistency Over Time = Transformation
The power of consistency lies in the way small steps compound over time. What feels like a small win today becomes the foundation for lifelong health and wellness.
Remember, it’s not about being perfect every day—it’s about showing up for yourself as best as you can, day after day. Each choice you make brings you closer to the healthy, balanced life you’re striving for.
You’ve got this! Keep going. 😊
Ready to learn more? Be sure to grab your Six Small Shifts Checklist to help you get started on your wellness journey.
Wishing you peace, strength and love,
Maryann
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