Want 2026 to be your best year ever? It won’t happen by accident.
Small, consistent habits compound into massive change. Inspired by Atomic Habits (which I’ve read four times—each read hits different in new seasons), here are nine habits I live by and recommend to make next year transformative.
1. Construct a Morning Routine That’s Yours
Everyone has one—it’s just usually random. Make it intentional. Mine starts within 90 seconds of waking: cold shower, then barefoot grounding while squatting (hip flexors + inflammation reduction). Then a hallway reading walk with a physical book which includes praying. Then journaling goals. Then high-protein, low-carb breakfast. Yours doesn’t need to match. Keep it short, simple, portable, and 100 % tailored to your life—kids or no kids, early riser or not.
2. Read Every Day
At least one hour. Break it into chunks if needed. Carry a book everywhere (Ryan Holiday’s tip). Focus on titles that move you toward your goals—AI, communication, leadership, faith.
3. Exercise Daily
I’ve run at least one mile every day since August 29, 2017. You don’t have to run. Walk, cycle, swim, lift—30 minutes with elevated heart rate. Your body (and brain) need movement.
4. Create a Wind-Down Routine
Don’t crash from screen to sleep. Mine: screens off at 8 PM, journal last thoughts, read Kindle in dark mode, asleep by 8:30 PM. Signal to your body: time to rest.
5. Make Time for Tech-Free Silence
Pray, meditate, or simply be. No devices. No noise. Just quiet. We’re losing the gift of stillness—reclaim it.
6. Journal Daily
Handwrite thoughts, gratitude, goals. I use a Moleskine pocket notebook—same size as my iPhone, always with me. End each day with at least three things you’re thankful for (big or small).
7. Have a Clear Shutdown Ritual
Especially if you work from home. Signal: “Work ends here.” Close laptop, tidy desk, leave the space. Cal Newport’s “office hours” idea—post them so everyone knows.
8. Curate Positivity in Your Feeds
Search “positivity,” “puppies,” “encouragement,” or some other edifying words. Retrain the algorithm. Fill your eyes and heart with what lifts you up.
9. Be Fully Present
Wherever you are, be there 100 %. No half-listening while scrolling. This one challenges me most—but it’s worth the fight.
Your Turn
Pick one (or two) habits. Commit to them for 2026. Which will you start? Leave a comment below with the habit(s) you’re committing to—I read every one.