How do we sustain newly created habits?

In an earlier blog post, I outlined how to create a new habit. The real power comes from sustaining it. Keep showing up, because every day you stick to it, you turn effort into lasting change.

• Reinforce the impact of Compounding

There’s no shortage of articles on the power of compounding—financial experts are everywhere explaining why ETFs can be such a smart investment. The same principle applies to habits: small, consistent actions can create meaningful, long-term changes in your life. Just as you commit to staying invested in a stock or fund, commit to your habits in the same way. As James Clear puts it: “Professionals stick to the schedule; amateurs let life get in the way.”

• Maintain a Habit Tracker

  
  

  Track your success visually. That simple “X” on your tracker can bring more satisfaction than you might expect. Visual markers not only reinforce progress but also help imprint habits more firmly in your brain. Trackers are easy to create yet have a tremendous impact on building sustainable habits. To this day, I maintain trackers to observe and understand my own behavior.

  
  

• Identify an Accountability Partner

We are social beings. We are wired to think about what others think of us. When someone else is watching you, you are more likely to be motivated to execute. The Accountability Partner could be your spouse, friend, parents, siblings etc.,

• Add an immediate pleasure

Rewards boost your chances of success. A habit needs to provide immediate satisfaction—whether it’s sending a text to your accountability partner, treating yourself after X consecutive streaks, or anything else that feels rewarding to you. The key is to enjoy the reward immediately after completing the habit.

• Never miss twice

Life happens. You might fall sick, work may demand your attention, or countless unexpected events can throw off your schedule. The key is not to miss twice. If you skip a day, get back on track the very next day, even if only for a short session. Keep the chain unbroken.

Started a new habit and struggling to maintain? You know how to reach me - coach@athma.ca

Other blogs that you might find interesting:

• How do we create new Habits?

• How my long, solo hikes can help you...