From Small Habits to Big Rewards

My mornings used to start with a 15-minute walk, not because I planned it, but because our Yorkshire terrier mascot, Maxwell, demanded it. Although they began as a duty, those walks became a self-nurturing way to start my day—a time for reflection, fresh air, and a little exercise before diving into emails, calls, and meetings. It was more than just a routine; it was a ritual that grounded me. For the past few weeks, my wife has taken over Maxwell’s morning walks, and I’ve been feeling the difference. I find myself parking my car a bit farther from the office each morning just to sneak in that walk. It might seem like a small thing, but the other day I realized this daily habit set a positive tone and gave me a sense of accomplishment before I even sat down at my desk. I realize now that I need it back.

Have you ever noticed how small actions can shape your day and even your life? Maybe you start each morning with a solitary cup of coffee or a quick workout, and suddenly, you’re ready to conquer anything. These tiny habits might seem insignificant on their own, but they build momentum over time. No matter how small, when you replace bad habits with good ones, you start aligning your daily actions with your bigger life goals. What habits have you created, consciously or unconsciously, that set the tone for your day? Do they empower you or hold you back? By paying attention to these small choices, you can gain insight into how your habits influence your path and where you might want to make adjustments.

A great book on this topic is Atomic Habits by James Clear. Although I’m only a few pages in, I’ve already discovered a treasure trove of insights and practical advice on building positive habits and breaking free from those that hold me back. It’s not about making massive changes overnight but about taking manageable steps that add up to extraordinary outcomes. Let’s embark on a journey together to replace one small habit per week that brings us closer to the future we’ve imagined. We’ve got this!