The Psychology of Change: How to Build Habits That Stick

Tenille Hicks
November 18, 2025

Lasting change doesn’t happen overnight — it’s built through small, consistent steps.

Habits shape our daily lives, so by intentionally creating nourishing routines and gradually replacing unhelpful patterns, we can transform our health, mindset, and overall wellbeing.

Every small action counts. Over time, these choices compound, leading to meaningful, lasting results. The secret? Embrace patience, celebrate progress, and remember: change is a journey, not a sprint.

Why Lasting Change Starts with Mindset

As a Health Coach, I know that behaviour change isn’t just about willpower — it’s about self-awareness, motivation, and mindset.

Understanding the “why” behind your goals creates purpose and direction. When your motivation comes from within — like wanting to feel more energised, confident, or calm — it becomes far easier to sustain action, even when life gets busy.

We often overestimate what we can do in a week and underestimate what we can achieve in a year. That’s where a coaching approach makes all the difference — focusing on progress, not perfection, and guiding you to take manageable steps that build confidence and momentum.

Top Tips for Successful Behaviour Change

1). Understand Your “Why”

Your why is your motivation fuel. Ask yourself: why does this change matter to me? Maybe it’s more energy to play with your kids, better sleep, or feeling at peace in your body.
The stronger your reason, the easier it is to stay committed when challenges arise.

Reflect: What’s one reason this change truly matters to me? How will my life feel different once I achieve it?

2). Make It Enjoyable

If you want to move your body more, don’t force yourself into activities you dread. Choose something you genuinely enjoy — walking in nature, dancing, swimming, or yoga. When it feels fun, it’s easier to stay consistent.

Reflect: What healthy activities or habits make me feel good — physically and emotionally?

3). Be Kind to Yourself

There’s no such thing as perfect progress. Slips are part of the learning process, not signs of failure. Celebrate small wins — every step forward is proof that you’re growing.

Reflect: How can I show myself kindness when things don’t go to plan? What does self-compassion look like for me?

4). Simplify the Choice

Make the healthy choice the easy choice. Keep nourishing food visible, prepare snacks in advance, or leave your walking shoes by the door. Small tweaks to your environment can make a big difference in building consistency.

Reflect: What’s one small change I can make in my environment this week to make healthy choices easier?

5). Turn It Into a Routine

Habits thrive on consistency. Doing the same action at the same time each day — like a short morning stretch or a nightly screen-free hour— helps your brain automate the behaviour until it becomes second nature.

Reflect: What’s one simple action I can commit to doing at the same time each day?

6). Rally Your Support

Change is easier (and more enjoyable) when you don’t do it alone. Share your goals with friends, family, or a coach who can keep you accountable and cheer you on. Support turns effort into energy.

Reflect: Who could I reach out to for support or encouragement as I work toward my goals?

7). Track and Triumph

Progress beats perfection every time. Whether you journal your habits, tick off a calendar, or simply reflect on how you feel — seeing your growth helps you stay motivated and proud of how far you’ve come.

Reflect: How will I measure or celebrate my progress this month?

The Takeaway

Lasting change is built on self-compassion, curiosity, and consistency.

When you shift your focus from “I have to be perfect” to “I’m learning and growing,” you open the door to true transformation.

Each positive choice you make today — no matter how small —is a building block for the life you want to live tomorrow.

Start small, stay kind, and keep going — your future self will thank you.

Ready to Create Change That Lasts?

As a certified Health Coach, I’m here to walk alongside you— helping you uncover your “why,” find what works for you, and create healthy habits that stick. Together, we’ll build a foundation for lasting wellbeing, balance, and resilience.

Book your free Discovery Call to find out more about health coaching and see if we’re the right fit to work together.

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