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15 Good Habits for a Healthier Life

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by  Brooke

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you click on the link or make a purchase using the link. When you make a purchase, the price you pay will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.

Introduction

Hey there! Welcome, or welcome back! Today we’re talking about habits. Have you ever felt like you wanted to make healthier choices but weren’t sure where to start? Trust me, I get it! It can be overwhelming trying to figure out the best habits to adopt for a healthier lifestyle. That’s exactly why I’ve put together this post. Today, I’m going to cover “15 Good Habits” that can help you transform your life.

Having been on my health journey, losing over 80lbs, I learned how powerful small habits can be. They’ve helped me manage my weight, reduce stress, and boost my overall well-being. And the best part? You can start introducing even the smallest habits today and see the benefits in no time.

Running a healthier life is for everyone, and you deserve to feel amazing. So, let’s get started with ’15 Good Habits for a Healthier Life’!

SEE MY COMPLETE GUIDE ON HABIT FORMATION > Mastering Habit Formation and Behaviour Change For Your Health

15 Good Habits

Table of Contents

Introducing These 15 Good Habits To Your Life

Before beginning to introduce any of these 15 good habits, let’s talk about something important: the tendency to want to do everything at once. I get it—when you’re motivated to make a change, it’s tempting to try and overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. But, introducing too many habits at once can be overwhelming and unsustainable.

It’s natural to feel inclined toward an all-or-nothing approach, but real, lasting change comes from taking small, manageable steps. Instead of trying to implement all 15 good habits right away, start with just one or two. Focus on incorporating these into your daily routine until they become second nature and once you’re comfortable, gradually add more habits.

This approach helps you build a strong foundation and increases your chances of success. It also prevents burnout and makes the process more enjoyable. Remember, creating a healthier lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint. Patience and consistency are key.

So, as you read through these habits, think about which ones resonate with you the most and start there.

woman smiling while cooking

Habit 1: Drink More Water

I know, I know – this isn’t a groundbreaking recommendation. But staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most powerful habits you can add to your life.

Water is essential for nearly every function in your body, from keeping your skin glowing to helping your organs work efficiently. So, when you’re well-hydrated, your body can perform at its best and means you’ll feel more energetic and focused.

Tips for increasing water intake:

  • Carry a Water Bottle: Always have a water bottle with you, whether you’re at work, in the car, or at the gym. This makes it convenient to sip throughout the day.
  • Set Reminders: Use your phone or an app to remind you to drink water at regular intervals. Sometimes, we just need a little nudge to remember.
  • Infuse Your Water: If plain water feels boring, try adding natural flavours like slices of lemon, or squash.
  • Start Your Day with Water: Make it a habit to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. It helps rehydrate your body after a night of sleep.
  • Eat Water-Rich Foods: Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content, like
  • watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges, into your diet.
15 good habits

Habit 2: Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep helps your body repair itself, lets your brain process all the stuff from the day, and therefore gives you the energy you need to tackle tomorrow.

Here are some easy tips to help you sleep better:

  • Set a Sleep Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Your body loves a routine!
  • Wind Down Before Bed: Do something relaxing like reading or taking a warm bath to help you unwind.
  • Ditch the Screens: Turn off your phone, tablet, or TV at least an hour before bed. The blue light messes with your sleep.
  • Make Your Bedroom Cosy: Keep it cool, dark, and quiet, and make sure your bed is comfy.
  • Watch What You Eat and Drink: Avoid big meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime—they can mess with your sleep.

Habit 3: Incorporate Physical Activity

Exercise boosts your energy, helps manage weight, and keeps your heart healthy. Plus, it’s amazing for lifting your mood.

Here are some fun and easy ways to get more active:

  • Find What You Love: Whether it’s dancing, hiking, cycling, or yoga, choose activities you enjoy so it doesn’t feel like a chore.
  • Start Small: If you’re new to exercise, start with short sessions. Even a 10-minute walk can make a difference.
  • Make it Social: Grab a friend or join a class. Working out with others can make it more fun and keep you motivated.
  • Sneak in Activity: Take the stairs, park further away, or do a quick workout during TV commercials. Little things add up!
  • Set Goals: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. Setting goals can help you stay on track and see your progress.

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Habit 4: Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Practising mindfulness and meditation can do amazing things for your mental health. It helps reduce stress, improve focus, and make you feel more connected to the present moment.

Here are some simple ways to get started:

  • Start Small: Begin with just a few minutes of meditation each day. Even 3-5 minutes can make a big difference.
  • Find a Quiet Spot: Choose a peaceful place where you won’t be disturbed. It could be a cosy corner of your home or a quiet park.
  • Focus on Your Breathing: Pay attention to your breath. Inhale deeply, exhale slowly, and let your mind calm down.
  • Use Guided Meditations: There are plenty of apps and online videos that can guide you through meditation if you’re not sure where to start.
  • Be Consistent: Try to practice at the same time every day to build a habit. It could be in the morning to start your day or at night to wind down.
15 good habits

Habit 5: Eat a Balanced Diet

Alright, let’s talk food! Eating a balanced diet is key to feeling your best and staying healthy. It’s all about giving your body the nutrients it needs to function well, keep your energy up, and maintain a healthy weight.

Here are some tips for eating a balanced diet:

  • Mix it Up: Include a variety of foods in your meals—fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Variety ensures you get a wide range of nutrients.
  • Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes. It’s easy to overeat, even healthy foods, so be mindful of how much you’re putting on your plate.

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Habit 6: Plan Your Meals

Taking the time to plan your meals can simplify your life, save you money, and help you eat healthier. It’s all about being prepared and making intentional choices.

Here’s how to get started with meal planning:

  • Pick a Planning Day: Choose one day a week to plan your meals. This helps you stay organised and ensures you have all the ingredients you need.
  • Create a Menu: Decide what you’ll eat for each meal and make a menu. Include a variety of foods to keep your meals interesting and nutritious.
  • Make a Shopping List: Write down everything you need for the week. Having a list helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and keeps you focused on healthy options.
  • Prep in Advance: Spend some time prepping ingredients or even entire meals.
  • Use Leftovers: Plan meals that can be turned into leftovers for the next day, therefore, this saves time and reduces food waste. One of my favourite meals to make is these Leftover Roast Chicken Tacos the day after a Sunday roast.

Habit 7: Create a Morning Routine

Starting your day with a solid morning routine can set the tone for a productive and positive day. A good morning routine helps you feel organised, reduces stress, and boosts your overall well-being.

Here are some tips to create a morning routine that works for you:

  • Wake Up at the Same Time: Try to wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock and makes it easier to get up in the morning.
  • Move Your Body: Incorporate some form of physical activity into your morning. It could be a quick workout, a yoga session, or even a brisk walk. This boosts your energy and mood for the rest of the day.
  • Eat a Healthy Breakfast: Fuel your body with a nutritious breakfast. Include a mix of protein, healthy fats, and whole grains to keep you satisfied and energised.
  • Plan Your Day: Take a few minutes to plan your day. Write down your tasks and goals to stay organised and focused. This helps reduce stress and improves productivity.
morning routine

Habit 8: Limit Screen Time

Limiting screen time can improve your physical and mental health, enhance your productivity, and help you reconnect with the real world.

Here are some tips to help you cut back on screen time:

  • Set Screen-Free Zones: Designate certain areas of your home, like the dining room or bedroom, as screen-free zones to encourage more face-to-face interactions and better sleep.
  • Schedule Breaks: Use the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. It gives your eyes a needed rest.
  • Unplug Before Bed: Turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from devices can interfere with your sleep, so read a book or do a relaxing activity instead.
  • Track Your Screen Time: Use apps or built-in phone features to monitor how much time you’re spending on screens. This can help you become more aware and make conscious changes.
  • Engage in Other Activities: Find hobbies or activities that don’t involve screens, such as reading, crocheting, and board games. These can be more fulfilling and better for your health.
  • Limit Social Media: Set specific times for checking social media and stick to them. Consider removing apps from your phone to reduce the temptation to mindlessly scroll.

Habit 9: Stay Organised

Having ADHD, staying organised hasn’t always been easy for me but finding systems that work for you will make your life run smoother and help reduce stress. So, when your space and schedule are in order, you can focus better and feel more in control.

Here are some tips to help you stay organised:

  • Declutter Regularly: Spend a few minutes each day tidying up. Add it to your morning routine if it’s something you want to get out of the way. Getting rid of unnecessary items can make your space feel more open and calm.
  • Use a Planner: Keep track of your tasks, appointments, and goals in a planner. Whether it’s digital or paper, having a place to write things down can help you stay on top of your responsibilities. I use the app Housy, which lets me add recurring tasks by room, and sets priority levels.
  • Plan Your Week: At the start of each week, take a few minutes to plan out your schedule. Look at your appointments, deadlines, and goals to ensure you’re prepared for what’s ahead.
  • Designate Spaces: Give everything a home. Assign specific places for your keys, mail, and other frequently used items so you always know where to find them. I’m a big fan of storage boxes and baskets, a place where I can just throw items in!
15 good habits

Habit 10: Practice Gratitude

Practising gratitude can change your outlook on life and improve your happiness. It’s all about focusing on the positive aspects of your life and appreciating what you have.

Here are some simple ways to practice gratitude:

  • Keep a Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. They can be big or small—what matters is acknowledging the good in your life.
  • Express Thanks: Take the time to thank people in your life. Whether it’s a quick text, a handwritten note, or a heartfelt conversation, expressing gratitude strengthens your relationships.
  • Mindful Moments: Spend a few moments each day reflecting on what you’re grateful for. It can be during your morning coffee, a walk outside, or before you go to bed.
  • Gratitude Jar: Start a gratitude jar with your family. Write down things you’re grateful for on small pieces of paper and add them to the jar. At the end of the month or year, read them together.
  • Positive Affirmations: Begin your day with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of the things you appreciate about your life, your abilities, and your journey.

Habit 11: Set Achievable Goals

Having achievable goals is a great way to make progress and stay motivated. Therefore, having clear, realistic goals gives you direction and a sense of purpose, helping you focus on what truly matters.

Here are some tips to set and achieve your goals:

  • Be Specific: Define your goals clearly. Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” say, “I want to walk 30 minutes a day, five times a week.”
  • Break It Down: Divide larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. This makes them less overwhelming and easier to tackle.
  • Set a Timeline: Give yourself a deadline to stay on track. Having a timeframe helps you stay focused and motivated.
  • Write It Down: Document your goals and track your progress. Seeing your achievements on paper can boost your motivation and help you stay committed.
  • Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your goals if needed. Life happens, and being adaptable can help you stay on course without getting discouraged.
  • Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way. Rewarding yourself for small achievements keeps you motivated and positive.

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Habit 12: Limit Processed Foods

Cutting back on processed foods can significantly improve your health and well-being. Processed foods shouldn’t be completely cut out of your diet, we all need balance! But processed foods often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives that aren’t good for your body. So focusing on whole, natural foods is a great way to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need.

Here are some tips to help you limit processed foods:

  • Read Labels: Check the ingredient list on packaged foods. If you see a long list of ingredients, especially ones you can’t pronounce, it’s probably highly processed.
  • Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home gives you control over what goes into your food. You can use fresh ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives.
  • Snack Smart: Choose whole food snacks like fruits, nuts, yoghurt, or veggies instead of processed snacks like crisps or sweets.

Habit 13: Take Time for Yourself

Taking time for yourself is so important for your mental and emotional well-being. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, so carving out some “me time” can help you recharge and stay balanced.

Here are some ways to make sure you’re taking time for yourself:

  • Schedule It: Just like any other important appointment, schedule time for yourself in your calendar. Treat it as non-negotiable.
  • Find Your Passion: Engage in activities you love, whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or playing an instrument. Doing something enjoyable can help you relax and unwind.
  • Practice Self-Care: Self-care can be anything that makes you feel good—taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, meditating, or even just sitting quietly with a cup of tea.
  • Unplug: Disconnect from your devices for a bit. Turn off notifications, put your phone on aeroplane mode, and enjoy some screen-free time.
  • Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that drain your energy. It’s important to set boundaries to protect your time and well-being.
  • Reflect and Journal: Spend some time reflecting on your day or writing in a journal. This can help you process your thoughts and feelings, providing mental clarity and relief.

Habit 14: Spend Time Outdoors

Spending time outdoors is so good for you and something I try to make non-negotiable everyday. Fresh air, sunlight, and nature can do wonders for your well-being, consequently helping you feel more relaxed, energised, and connected to the world.

Here are some ways to incorporate more outdoor time into your routine:

  • Take a Daily Walk: Make it a habit to take a walk outside each day, whether it’s around your neighbourhood, in a park, or along a nature trail. Walking is great exercise and allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature.
  • Exercise Outside: Try doing your workouts outside instead of at the gym. Running, cycling, yoga, or even strength training can be done in a park or backyard.
  • Have Outdoor Meals: If the weather is nice, eat your meals outside. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or just lunch on your patio, dining al fresco can be a refreshing change.
  • Garden: Gardening is a rewarding way to spend time outdoors. It’s a great form of physical activity and can be incredibly satisfying as you watch your plants grow.
  • Explore New Places: Make it a goal to visit new outdoor locations, like hiking trails, beaches, or nature reserves. Exploring different environments keeps things interesting and can be a fun adventure.
beginners running guide

Habit 15: Maintain Social Connections

Building and maintaining social connections is vital for your mental and emotional well-being. Strong relationships provide support, enhance happiness, and help you cope with life’s challenges.

Here are some ways to nurture your social connections:

  • Stay in Touch: Regularly reach out to friends and family through calls, texts, or social media. Even a quick message can strengthen your bond.
  • Schedule Regular Meet-Ups: Plan regular get-togethers with friends or family, whether it’s a weekly dinner, a monthly coffee date, or a virtual hangout.
  • Join Groups or Clubs: Engage in activities or hobbies that interest you and join groups or clubs related to those interests. This is a great way to meet new people and build connections.
  • Be Present: When you’re with friends or family, be fully present. Put away your phone, listen actively, and engage in meaningful conversations.
  • Volunteer: Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet new people and make a positive impact in your community. It can also give you a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
  • Offer Support: Be there for others. Offering support and being a good listener can strengthen your relationships and provide mutual benefits.

15 Good Habits: Conclusion

Incorporating good habits into your daily routine is the foundation of a healthier, happier life. Each of these 15 good habits can make a significant impact on your mental and physical health.

Remember, it’s all about making small, sustainable changes that you can stick with over the long term. Again, you don’t have to implement all these habits at once. So, as you read through these ’15 Good Habits’ choose one or two that resonate with you, and gradually add more as you become comfortable.

Creating a healthier lifestyle is a journey, not a destination. So celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and be kind to yourself along the way. By committing to these healthy habits, you’re investing in your future self and paving the way for a more vibrant, balanced, and fulfilling life.

Have you enjoyed the post ’15 Good Habits for a Healthier Life’? Leave me a comment below with the habits that resonated most with you and why!

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