How To Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet
We’re not going to talk about making New Year’s resolutions or setting unrealistic goals, because, well… life. But we can set ourselves up to have the best year yet for our health and wellbeing, and support ourselves to overcome whatever might come our way.
So, wherever you are, get comfy, grab a notebook (or even just use the notes app on your phone), and let’s start working through the below steps together:
#1 - Get really honest with yourself
This can be the hardest step, but its the key starting point. Ask yourself what your definition of success really is. Not what everyone else on social media is spinning, not what your family and friends might try and influence you towards. Society can have a very narrow view of success, but it’s important to block out the noise and find what is right for you, and its okay if your version is different to your friend/sister/neighbour etc.
Some questions to ask yourself: What do you want your life to look like, to feel like. What do you want a typical day to look like? How do you want to feel on a Sunday evening? In 12 months time, what do you want to look back and feel really proud of?
This is going to be your anchor to lean on in amongst the crazy demands that the world will throw at you. Keep it written down or create a Pinterest board for inspiration - or both!
#2 - Challenge the fear of change
Think through what needs to be true for that life to become reality, and be honest about what habits and mindsets are not working. Think about what you might stand to lose through this process, such as your old identity, unhealthy relationships, but more importantly what you stand to gain.
Fear by default can outweigh our desire to make a change, which causes us to procrastinate in starting to change our habits and routines. Visualise what is possible for you and lean on your notes or Pinterest board to keep you focused on what you’re working towards.
#3 - Create your Game Plan
Firstly, let go of perfectionism, or thinking that it has to be “all or nothing” like the influencers will try and have you think.
As we’ve all learned over the last few years, life has a funny habit of throwing a few curveballs our way. From an injury or sickness that forces us to pause the workout routine, or a financial setback that maxes out our credit card, we never know what might come along in the year ahead. But this doesn’t have to mean giving up on moving forward. It’s not permanent, and we can learn and grow through these situations as much as it might not feel like it in the middle of the mess. We keep moving forward anyway.
This is why creating systems is so important, as it enables progress to still be made, and removes the pressure of trying to achieve a goal that usually has a deadline attached to it. Focus on being consistent within your daily habits, and celebrate your successes, no matter how small.
#4 - Make JOY a priority
Believe that you deserve to feel good, and make time in your life for things that fill your cup - especially as we get back into the stress of everyday life.
Make a list of things that bring you joy and create space in your life for them. They don’t have to be anything fancy, this is purely about what brings a smile to your face and warms your heart. Some ideas from my own list include:
that first sip of coffee in the morning
watching a sunrise or sunset
trying out a new recipe in the kitchen while my favourite playlist is on in the background (cue random dance moves while mixing ingredients!)
going for a nice long walk in nature with my partner (quality time is our shared love language)
catching up with good friends over a casual pot luck dinner
curling up in bed with a mug of chamomile tea and a book
treating myself to a full body massage
#5 - Be your own best friend
As you work through the changes you want to make in your life, make sure these changes focus on nourishment, positive energy and joy.
Stop criticising yourself for where you’re at or what you haven’t got/achieved. Dont compare yourself to anyone else - you’re not behind and you’re not failing. We’re all on our own journey. Life is messy, there will be good days and there will be ones we never want to repeat. Practice self-compassion and treat yourself like you would your best friend - with grace, kindness and encouragement.
You deserve to truly thrive in 2026. If you’d like support on your health and wellness journey, I’d love to help. Feel free to follow along on Instagram here, and let’s build a community of like minded women who are choosing to make their own wellness a priority.
If you’re interested in personalised one-to-one coaching, and creating a game plan that’s just right for you, please reach out here, and let’s get you thriving!