How to Do Anything

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When I was younger and wanted to start a new habit, I’d force myself into action, which felt like torture. My older and wiser self has developed a more positive way to change my deep-rooted behaviour, which leads to an actual long-term lifestyle shift.

Below, I share my methodology, which could work for an array of goals. I’ve used it to convert myself into a morning person, someone who works out almost daily (and loves it), and someone who craves and fuels myself with mostly nourishing foods.

Pick your own adventure, and implement each step, focusing on your WHY to move yourself gently into a new evolution of self, because you are what you do each day.

How to Do Anything

1. Get clear on your WHY

   1. Frequently when goal setting we focus on the outcome instead of our reason behind it. Sit with yourself and reflect on WHY you are taking this action. Why is it important to you? What will it change in your life, and how will it make you feel? Bonus points for journalling on this with a pen and paper.

   2. Create a WHY so juicy, you can come back to it when taking the action feels hard.

2. Be realistic

   1. Start where you are, and set an attainable goal for this new behaviour. Don’t go from 0-100, start small and build up the habit.

   2. Know yourself. If you have a busy life with lots of responsibilities, make sure you have enough space in your life for new behaviours. If the behaviour isn’t in your regular routine, don’t commit to doing it 7 days a week for an hour.

3. Set yourself up for success

   1. Make the process fun! If you want to start working out regularly, try out different classes to discover ones you actually enjoy.

   2. Create some accountability for your goal. If you want to wake up earlier, meet a friend for coffee or call someone on your morning walk.

4. Try, and try again

   1. Set a small and achievable goal for this new habit, like doing something for 5 minutes for 5 days. You’ll generate more confidence and self-power from within when you do what you say you’ll do.

   2. If you don’t achieve what you originally set out to do, give yourself some grace and compassion and try again. Go through the steps, reflect on your WHY and adjust your goal as needed.