Struggling? Track Your Habits Anyway
It’s mid-January already and my 2025 habit tracker should look like a rainbow of achievement.
Creatively designed paper and digital planners are trending, and it’s satisfying to color in the boxes when I hit my daily targets.
So far, though, mine looks like a geometric abstract of squares, triangles, and empty spaces instead of a circular half-wheel. Unlike last year, I’m learning to be OK with that and press forward.
Statistics about resolutions aren’t too encouraging. The resolution failure rate may be as high as 88%. This year my focus is building small habits that build up to meaningful results over time, and here’s what I’ve learned so far, in case you find it helpful too.
1. Measure, Learn, Adjust. Judging by the empty boxes on my tracker, one of my commitments is in jeopardy. Instead of merely stating “get healthier,” I set a reasonable and obtainable measurement and I’m reassessing how to get there. My “why” is critically important: I need to be as healthy as possible to pursue my dreams and life’s work with vigor.? If I plan it, I’m more likely to achieve it.
2. Give Yourself Credit. If I meet half of my movement goal, I’m filling in half of a habit box. It inspires me to keep reaching and trying before the end of the day and it helps me see patterns by day of the week, schedules, etc. Tomorrow is a new day. Is there an area where you aren't giving yourself enough credit?
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3. Reward Yourself. How will you celebrate your progress, and how frequently will you reward yourself? Last year, a scenic hike motivated me to improve my fitness. The view and sense of accomplishment was worth it.?Whatever it is, make sure it sparks joy.
Admittedly, it took me a while to distill what I want to do, what I need to do, and my why, which has deep spiritual implications for me.
You still have 350 days to shape the year you want. Don’t let the first 15 days discourage you. You are more than a statistic, and you were created for more.?Reclaim it!
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:3 ESV