A New Year Reset
We have started the year 2026, and with it comes a natural reset. Many of us have reconnected after resting and unplugging from our daily routines. While I was away, I listened to a Master Class series by James Clear titled “Small Habits Make Big Changes.” It is excellent, and I highly recommend it if you can watch. His message is especially helpful in shifting our focus away from overwhelming goals and toward small, sustainable changes.
Why Goals Can Feel Overwhelming
Many people begin the New Year by setting goals, yet these can often feel daunting and hard to maintain. James Clear encourages us to move our attention away from the outcome or end goal and instead focus on the person we want to become — our identity.
Shifting Focus to Identity
We can change and adapt, so why not spend some time thinking about the identity you want to create for yourself?
For example:
- Instead of saying, “I want to lose 15 kg,”
- Try saying, “I want to be a slim, fit person.”
This subtle shift helps us focus on who we are becoming rather than what we are trying to achieve.
The Habits of a Healthy Identity
Once we identify the person we want to be, we can look at the habits that person typically keeps. For example, the identity of a healthy, active person may include habits such as:
- Rising early
- Following a Mediterranean-style diet with healthy fats, diverse colourful plants, seeds, and nuts
- Drinking mostly water
- Being a non-smoker and non-drinker
- Sleeping well
- Staying physically active 5–7 days a week
- Regulating stress emotionally
Small Changes Create Big Results
Now that we have clarity on our desired identity, we can begin with one minor change. For instance:
“I can eat more plants and drink more water once a day.”
By tackling small tasks regularly, we gradually create meaningful and lasting transformation.
As we consistently practice the habits of the identity we want, we begin to reinforce and believe in that identity. Over time, we truly start to feel like the person we are becoming.
Progress, Not Perfection
Change does not require a complete overhaul all at once. Try not to focus on 15 kg. Instead, focus on small, 1% changes made daily. These tiny shifts accumulate, allowing us to adapt and grow naturally into the people we choose to be.
Rewriting the Story, You Tell Yourself
Begin by consciously creating your new identity and recognizing old stories that no longer serve you.
For example:
- “I am unhealthy and overweight” can become “I am becoming a healthy person.”
- “I am irritable and short-tempered” can become “I am calm and collected.”
From “Have To” to “Get To”
A powerful mindset shift is changing our language from “have to” to “get to.” This transforms responsibility into opportunity.
- Instead of “I have to eat this salad,” say “I get eat this nourishing colourful food .”
- Instead of “I have to run this morning,” say “I get to run later today.”
This simple change helps us see everyday actions as opportunities, cultivating gratitude and reducing feelings of overwhelm or burden.
Moving Forward Into 2026
I hope this encourages us to reset with intention and move toward growth and health in 2026.
Wishing you small, consistent, positive changes as you create the identity you want for yourself this year.
