I recently listened to a podcast by Mel Robbins about discipline and habits that resonated with me. Many of us believe that to achieve a healthy lifestyle, we need to muster all our willpower, grit our teeth, and push through with discipline. But as Mel pointed out, we are creatures of habit, not discipline. White-knuckling through a lifestyle change is rarely sustainable. Instead, she offered tips on how to effectively build new habits: replace old habits, take gradual steps, and tie them to rewards.
This approach is key for those seeking to create sustainable healthy habits, whether it’s improving diet, exercise, sleep, or stress management. As someone who is passionate about promoting a joyful, healthy lifestyle, I’ve had countless conversations with people who struggle with the discipline to maintain healthy habits. But here’s the thing—I’m not a fan of rigid rules myself. I’m all about fun, joy, and abundance. Yet, I also know that lifestyle factors are essential for long-term health, helping us age gracefully without chronic disease. So how do we reconcile these two ideas?
Mindset Shift: Finding Joy in Healthy Choices
The first step is a shift in mindset. Instead of seeing healthy habits as something we have to do, what if we saw them as something we get to do? For example, when I look at my meals, I don’t just see food—I see a rainbow of colors brimming with antioxidants that are helping my body repair and thrive. Okay, maybe it’s a little geeky, but it works for me!
What would happen if you could see your food differently? Could you start to appreciate the vibrant colors, the flavors, the textures, and the way each bite nurtures your body?
Enjoying the Flavors of Healthy Food
Food isn’t just about nutrients; it’s about enjoyment. I love experimenting with herbs, spices, and different textures to create meals that are a feast for the senses. When you take the time to savor your food, you give your body a chance to recognize satiety, and you’re more likely to feel satisfied with less. So, what herbs, spices, or textures can you start appreciating in your meals?
Making Exercise Fun and Flexible
I know that exercise is essential for health, but how can I make it enjoyable? Waking up at 5 am for a run in the freezing cold can be a challenge, but I look forward to the warm shower and yummy breakfast that awaits me afterward. Sometimes, though, it’s about being flexible—maybe today it’s a dance party in the living room or a walk in the sunshine instead of a run. The key is to find what feels good and lean into it.
Tips for Sustainable Habit Change
Here are a few things I’ve found helpful when trying to create new habits:
- Add, Don’t Restrict – Instead of focusing on what you can’t have, think about what you can add. For instance, can you add more veggies to your meals to crowd out less healthy options? This mindset shift from scarcity to abundance can make a world of difference.
- Be Mindful – Pay attention to how you feel when you’re engaging in healthy behaviors. What small pleasures can you focus on?
- Focus on Rewards – Lean into the reward at the end and appreciate your progress. Celebrate the small steps.
- Be Flexible – You don’t have to force yourself to follow a rigid plan. Find activities you love, and don’t be afraid to switch things up.
Learning From Mel Robbins on Habit Building
Mel Robbins shared some fantastic tips on building new habits: plan ahead, reward yourself, take things step by step, and consider replacing or stacking habits. Instead of eliminating something, which can leave a void, think about what you can replace it with. For example, if you’re trying to cut down on sugary snacks, could you replace them with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts?
This weekend, I decided to explore a new running route instead of sticking to my usual one. I ended up getting a little lost, but I had an amazing run—the miles passed by without me even realizing it. That’s the magic of exploring new ways to stay active—it keeps things exciting and enjoyable.
Discipline Isn’t the Key—Habits Are
If you find yourself struggling to stick with healthy habits, it may be time to stop focusing on discipline and start focusing on habits. Gradually change your routine, find small rewards that keep you motivated, and most importantly, make it fun. Health isn’t about restriction or denying yourself joy—it’s about finding new ways to enjoy life while also taking care of your body.
So, how can you start creating new habits today? What’s one small thing you can add to your routine to bring a little more joy and a lot more health?
The Power of Community: Making Healthy Habits Together
One of the best ways to build sustainable healthy habits is by doing it alongside others. When you’re part of a community, you gain access to support, camaraderie, and accountability, which can make all the difference on your wellness journey.
Healthy habits don’t have to be something you do in isolation. Imagine celebrating small wins, sharing your favorite recipes, swapping tips for squeezing in movement during a busy day, and cheering each other on through the tough moments. The journey becomes less about discipline and more about shared joy, motivation, and encouragement.
And most importantly, it’s about having fun! When you’re surrounded by like-minded individuals who understand your struggles and celebrate your progress, it transforms the entire experience. You don’t have to do it alone. You can thrive, laugh, and grow healthier together.
For more on finding joy in healthy choices, check out my previous blog on The Joy Factor.
If you or someone you know could benefit from one on one health coaching to optimize wellness or treat chronic disease, book a free discovery call.
Additional Resources:
- Listen to Mel Robbin’s Podcast on Habits
- Read the blog on the Joy Factor
