Hey there, friend.
So, here we are. January is over, and you crushed it. You showed up for yourself, made healthier choices, and maybe even started to notice some changes. That’s HUGE. Seriously, take a second to pat yourself on the back.
But now, it’s February, and things are feeling harder. Maybe the excitement of a fresh start has worn off, your accountability buddy has stopped texting you, or those old habits are trying to sneak back in. Add the cold weather and darker days, and, well… let’s just say Netflix and takeout sound way more appealing than hitting the gym or making a healthy meal.
I get it. This is the part of the journey where it feels tempting to let go. To say, “Eh, maybe next month.” But friend, I need you to hear this: you’ve already done the hardest part—you started. Now it’s about keeping the momentum going, even if it’s not perfect.
Here’s how to keep showing up, even when it feels like the last thing you want to do.
1. Small Wins Matter (A Lot)
Let’s ditch the idea that you need to do it all perfectly to see results. Life isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, no matter how small the effort.
Not feeling a full workout today? Fine. Put on your shoes and commit to 5 minutes. If that’s all you’ve got, that’s okay—it’s still a win.
Couldn’t prep a perfectly balanced meal? Grab some veggies and protein, throw it together, and call it good.
Every small action you take sends a message to yourself: I’m still here, I’m still trying, and I’m still worth it.
2. Consistency Beats Perfection
You don’t have to crush every workout, meal, or goal to make progress. The real magic happens in consistency—the act of showing up, again and again, no matter what.
Think about it this way: missing one workout or having one indulgent meal won’t ruin your progress. But giving up altogether? That’s where things go off track. The key is to keep moving forward, even if it’s slower than you planned.
Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.
3. Adjust Your Goals
Here’s the thing: goals are meant to grow with you. If what you set in January feels too overwhelming now, it’s okay to adjust.
Try making SMART goals:
- Specific: What exactly do you want to achieve?
- Measurable: How will you track your progress?
- Achievable: Is this realistic for your current life?
- Relevant: Does this goal align with what you care about?
- Time-bound: When do you want to achieve this by?
Instead of saying, “I’ll work out 5 days a week,” maybe it’s, “I’ll move my body 3 times this week, even if it’s just a walk.” Adjust your goals to fit where you are right now, and you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more motivated to stick with them.
4. Build Resilience Through Showing Up
The hardest part is often just starting. On the days when you feel tired, unmotivated, or discouraged, remind yourself: all I have to do is show up.
Even a little effort is still effort. Showing up—no matter how small—builds resilience. It reminds you that you’re capable, even when things feel hard.
5. Imagine How Good It Will Feel
Think back to why you started. Maybe it was to feel more confident in your clothes, to have more energy to play with your kids, or to simply feel like the best version of yourself.
Close your eyes and imagine it:
- Waking up with energy instead of hitting snooze 5 times.
- Looking in the mirror and feeling proud of your progress.
- Knowing you’re doing something amazing for your future self.
That feeling is waiting for you—it’s on the other side of these tough moments.
This Isn’t About Perfection—It’s About Progress
Look, I’m not saying this is easy. Building a healthy routine takes effort, and there will always be days when it feels hard. But the reward? Oh, friend, it’s worth every ounce of effort.
So, let’s keep going. One small step at a time. Show up today, even if it’s not perfect. And then do it again tomorrow.
Because the version of you that’s proud, energized, and thriving? They’re just around the corner—and they’re so grateful you didn’t give up.
