Craig revisits the habits he set for himself at the beginning of the year and explains how we can all continue building habits.
Back in January, I wrote about choosing the habits that’ll help us to have an even better year (you can read this blog here). We focused on four areas we could zoom in on when creating our new habits, to ensure we’re looking after our whole selves. These four areas were: mentally, physically, socially and spiritually.
If you remember, we mentioned that our habits and mindset shouldn’t be impacted by the media and others around us, which can be tricky as we’re constantly bombarded by things like social media. I know I don’t like letting an external influence dictate my mood and how my day is going to go. Instead, I like to do what I can to take control and really think about what mindset will truly help me.
The reason I wanted to write this blog was to check in and see how it’s going for you. How have your habits for 2025 stuck? What’s been going well? How have you celebrated this achievement? What might need adapting? Maybe you need a gentle ‘poke in the ribs’ to refocus on your habits?
At the beginning of the year, I also set myself some new habits based on the four focus areas. So, here’s how it’s going for me…
1. Mentally
I wanted to increase my focus on meditation. I’ve noticed that I now spend more time doing ad hoc meditation and focusing on my breathing, without the need for guided meditation. The habit I ended up creating is to do this more often, but in small amounts as opposed to big time slots. Writing this blog has been a great reminder to reintroduce some guided meditation back into my life (as I really do enjoy it)!
I’ve also continued my quest to listen to more books, and I’m starting to read more physical books again, mixing in both business and some fun fiction and fantasy reads.
2. Physically
Not only have I started new exercise classes, but I’ve expanded to focusing on the whole health and well-being element (from nutrition to movement to weightlifting). I’ve had moments where it’s been a struggle trying to fit everything in, especially between travel and work, but it’s still a primary focus because when I do exercise, it helps me. The biggest shift I’ve noticed is that even when I’m tired, I know that I’ll love it when I’m there, so the habit has now ingrained itself.
I’ve noticed that it’s important to give yourself a break, be kind when things change and recognise that if you miss your new habit for a day or two, that’s ok. Just take the time to refocus and get back on it as soon as you can!
3. Socially
I’m now connecting with friends a lot more. Golf was one way that I wanted to do this, but this is a habit I’ve not yet had the chance to work on. Now the weather’s nicer, I’m committing to myself that I’ll make the time to do this!
4. Spiritually
This still links everything together for me. Over the last few months, I’ve created more time for reflecting, giving me the opportunity to think clearly and truly listen to others, helping me to really connect. I love being able to consider what changes I want to make, not only for myself but also for Rambutan.
A refresh and reflection on what you’ve achieved over the first half of the year can help you to keep on track and continue to make progress. The key thing is to be kind to yourself (as mentioned earlier). If something hasn’t played out the way you wanted it to, be honest and ask yourself the following questions: what’s been the blocker? How important is this to me now? If, for any reason, it doesn’t feel relevant to you right now, then find out what’s more relevant and how important it is to you.
Remind yourself of what it is you wanted to do and achieve this year, to ensure you continue along the correct path. If you don’t remind yourself, it’s easy to get tied up in the day-to-day and forget the bigger picture. Begin with the end in mind and remind yourself of this regularly!
It can be useful to have this conversation and reflection time with another person. Maybe chat to a loved one, a trusted friend or someone else in your life who you can talk to and see how you’re achieving your targets. These accountability partners act as a great support, helping to get ideas and thoughts out of your head… you’re more likely to commit to a habit when you say it out loud!
How have you continued your habits through 2025?