Building Sustainable Habits in 2025

By Jessica Bledsoe

Happy New Year! I hope 2025 is off to a great start and that you’re looking forward to all that it will bring.

If forming a new habit was on your list of New Year’s resolutions, I’m certain you’re not alone. But forming new habits doesn’t happen overnight. What starts off strong in January can easily fizzle out before Q1 is even over.

A few years ago, I read “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, and it completely transformed how I approach habit formation. It’s one of those books I return to time and time again, as it consistently helps me improve.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the strategies outlined in the book. However, I highly recommend picking up your own copy so you can really dig into the strategies and suggestions laid out in the book. It’s an easy read with actionable steps and guaranteed results.

Key Strategies from “Atomic Habits” for Business:

Make it Obvious:

Visual cues: Place equipment for a new exercise routine in a visible location.
Calendar reminders: Schedule specific times for tasks like content creation or client outreach.
Dedicated workspace: Create a designated area for focused work to minimize distractions.

Make it Attractive:

Gamify tasks: Turn data entry into a game with rewards for completing entries on time.
Find an accountability partner: Collaborate with another business owner to stay motivated and on track.
Connect tasks with enjoyable activities: Listen to a favorite podcast while working on a challenging project.

Make it Easy:

Reduce friction: Automate repetitive tasks whenever possible (e.g., scheduling social media posts).
Two-minute rule: Start with the smallest possible action (e.g., write one sentence for a blog post).
Prepare your environment: Have everything you need readily available to minimize distractions and procrastination.

Make it Satisfying:

Track progress: Use a project management tool or a simple spreadsheet to monitor your accomplishments.
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and reward yourself for achieving milestones, no matter how small.
Find an intrinsic reward: Focus on the sense of accomplishment and the positive impact of your work.

Implementing These Strategies in Your Business:

Identify a Target Habit: Choose one specific habit you want to cultivate (e.g., consistent content creation).
Break it Down: Divide the target habit into smaller, more manageable steps.
Stack Habits: Link your new habit to an existing routine (e.g., “After I finish my morning coffee, I will write one paragraph for my blog post”).
Track and Adjust: Monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. Celebrate successes and learn from setbacks.

By applying the principles of “Atomic Habits,” you can cultivate sustainable, high-impact routines that drive your business forward. Remember that consistency is key. Small, consistent actions compound over time, leading to significant and lasting results.

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Key Strategies from “Atomic Habits” for Business: