As you’ve enter into a new year, the constant pressure to reinvent yourself into your best version will arise. Year after year, you recite the same mantra: New year, new me. But what actually happens halfway through the year? The motivation and determination slowly begin to dwindle. Ever wonder why this happens? 

I strongly believe that finding the connection between yourself and the healthy habits you wish to accomplish is what leads to a more fulfilling, consistent, and abundant life. Last year was a pivotal year for me in terms of my mindset, and it inspired me to talk about the habits that I believe have changed my life for the better. I know what it’s like to go year after year hoping—and even working—to become better but somehow still feel like you’ve fallen short. I also know what it’s like to see results through consistent habit changes that I believe in. 

In this post, I share eight essential healthy habits that can set you up to be your healthiest self. For those looking to leave toxic habits and patterns behind, I hope you find clarity in this post! 

Healthy habits to add to your new year 

Healthy habits aren’t always about what you stop doing; sometimes, it’s about what you add to your routine. Here are some suggestions of habits to grow into your best self this year. 

1. Keep God First in All Things You Do 

I grew up in a religious household, but as I got older, I wouldn’t identify myself as a religious person. I believe everyone holds the freedom to express their personal beliefs however they choose. Although I may not identify with religion, I am a proud spiritual woman who believes in the Most High God. Some people call it God, the Divine, Source, the Creator, and others may identify with Allah. Whatever term you choose to identify with, we can all collectively agree on the phrase “The power above.” 

Putting God in everything I do has changed my perspective on life and enhanced my faith tremendously. Sometimes, you aim to control every aspect of your life because it’s comforting to know every outcome. But then you realize there is also power in letting go and trusting God’s path for you. In this new year, if it’s not already a habit, put God first in all that you do and trust that you are being led down the path destined for you. 

2. Be Intentional 

I remember when moments in my personal life seemed so scattered and chaotic; it felt like I had no sense of direction. One morning, I made the decision to plan out my day, task by task, and I was amazed by how much I was able to accomplish in just one day. I applied this new habit throughout my week, and everything I planned to achieve within the month was expedited. I was intentional about where I wanted my time, energy, and resources to go, and I saw results. 

The book Atomic Habits by James Clear talks about developing small goals and habits that add up to remarkable, lasting results. Apply this habit to your daily routine, task by task, and it will lead to a healthier you. You may not see the results immediately, but with time, you will. When you want to accomplish your goals, be specific and move with intention. Yes, allow room for flexibility, but remember that being intentional creates a clear vision and pathway to your goals. 

You will find yourself more driven, focused, and directed about the things you want. When you know what you want, you eliminate what you do not want. 

3. Get Organized 

Have you ever wanted to begin a project or a task but thought to yourself, “I don’t remember where I put my insert lost item?” Yep! Happens to the best of us. Knowing where things are is a game changer. There have been countless times when I wanted to work on a project, cook a meal, or even type up a report, but just thinking about the disorganization around me instantly demotivated me. Clutter clouds the mind. 

Getting organized isn’t just about physical things; it also applies to your nonphysical world, digital, or even mental space. Being organized saves you time and money and allows you to maximize your productivity. 

4. Prioritize Self-Care 

You cannot pour from an empty cup. When your well runs dry, there will be nothing left to give—not to yourself or others. I have been teaching about self-love for years, and I will tell you this: self-care is one of the most important pillars of self-love. 

You might be familiar with the expression “Self-care is not selfish.” In a world that encourages selflessness and an overextension of self to feel valuable, hearing this phrase might be confusing. When you start to put yourself first by embracing the care you deserve, it allows you to show up for yourself and the people in your life better. 

5. Give Yourself a Chance 

Imposter syndrome is something many people, including myself, have experienced. Believe me when I say that nothing good comes from holding yourself back. There have been moments in my life where I felt undeserving due to past trauma and circumstances. I allowed the negative words spoken to me by hateful individuals to take root in my spirit. I somehow believed other people’s projections were my reality—that I was not good enough for the life I imagined for myself. 

One day, everything shifted, and I remembered who I was. Choose to be relentless in the pursuit of self-discovery, personal growth, wealth, or overall health. Give yourself a chance to be the star you were born to be. Do all that you can to work through the limiting beliefs and self-doubt that have crippled you over the years. This is a new year, and you deserve to truly become a new you. Give yourself the chance to be seen, loved, and embraced.  

6. Surround Yourself with Positive Support 

Being embraced by people who genuinely want to see you win makes your journey a lot more exciting. Throughout my years, I have learned to do things on my own—not necessarily by choice but due to the lack of support in my life. I used to feel resentful about this, but I believe that God allows things to happen for our highest good. My lack of community taught me to be resilient, observant, and to reject communities that did not align with my mission or values. 

When you find people who show up for you and support you, hold onto them. They will remind you of your resilience and encourage you even through difficult moments on your journey. 

7. Celebrating the Small Milestones in Your Life 

Your small wins are wins, too! Although these achievements may seem minuscule, they can have a significant impact when acknowledged incrementally. Each win builds on the next and eventually leads to your bigger success. When you learn to celebrate your little achievements, it keeps you motivated, helps you avoid discouragement, and fosters the development of a positive mindset throughout your journey. 

8. Be Patient with Your Process 

Ever notice how often we focus more on getting to our destination than on the journey itself? I used to struggle with patience, but then I prayed to be more patient—and found myself having to wait…a lot! I know you’d love nothing more than for your life to transform instantly, but sometimes, things take time. Acknowledge that reaching your goal may take longer than you anticipated. It can be frustrating, but it’s normal. There are critical lessons that need to be learned to help you in the next phase of your life. Embrace the moment, learn from your setbacks, trust the process, and enjoy the timing of your life. 

Which one of these habits do you see yourself implementing this new year? Leave a comment and let me know!

Author’s Note

Hi, Gems! I hope I was able to give you insight into which habits can help you improve significantly on your journey this year. Also, remember to reference back to this post whenever you feel disconnected or lost in your goals during the year.