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10 Healthy Habits That CHANGED MY LIFE 🍃 | My Daily Non-Negotiables For a Happier, Healthier Life

Daily Habits for a Happier, Healthier Life

Author

Ark
May 29, 2025

Habits are the invisible architects of our lives. The small, repeated actions we take daily—often without much thought—shape who we are and who we’ll become. As James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, wisely said, “Success is the product of daily habits, not once-in-a-lifetime transformations.” If you’re looking to live a happier, healthier life, it all begins with the habits you cultivate. Over the years, I’ve seen this truth play out in my own life, and today, I’m excited to share the daily habits that have truly transformed mine.

Prioritize Sleep for a Strong Foundation

Sleep impacts everything—our energy, mood, focus, recovery, and even how we show up for others. As a parent, I’ll admit it’s not always easy to get a full eight hours, but making sleep a priority has been a game-changer. I aim for 8 to 9 hours in bed to account for nights when falling asleep takes longer or interruptions (hello, parenthood!) throw things off. This margin ensures I’m not just scraping by on the minimum but truly resting to be my best self. Whatever season of life you’re in, consider building in that extra buffer to make rest a non-negotiable.

Move Your Body, Transform Your Mind

Movement is one of my biggest non-negotiables today, but it wasn’t always this way. Growing up, I didn’t have much exposure to regular exercise, so incorporating it into my life has been a journey. Before becoming a parent, I was thrilled with the progress I made in building a consistent movement routine. Then, parenthood hit—a massive shift that changed my body, energy, and mental space. I felt like I was starting from scratch.

Knowing how much better I feel—mentally, emotionally, and physically—when I move, I was determined to make it work. That’s where Train Well, a one-on-one personal training service, came in (big thanks to them for partnering with me on this!). TrainWell customizes workouts to your goals, lifestyle, schedule, and even the equipment you have access to. My trainer, Jill, has been incredible, crafting mom-friendly workouts that fit into my busy days with a baby. She checks in regularly with encouragement, keeping me motivated.

The results? I’m regaining my strength post-baby, but more importantly, movement helps me feel like me. It boosts my energy, sharpens my focus, and even improves my sleep. Whether it’s running my first 5K, supporting my body during pregnancy, or doing at-home workouts with my baby crawling around, Train Well has evolved with me over the past two years. Getting started is easy: take their quick quiz, get matched with a trainer, and kick off with a call to discuss your goals. Plus, their app offers form feedback (especially handy with an Apple or Android watch). If you’re ready to make movement a daily habit, check out Train Well’s 14-day free trial using the link below.

Get Ready to Show Up

Working from home for six years has taught me the power of getting ready each day, even if I’m not leaving the house. There’s something about putting on a cute outfit, doing my hair, or applying makeup that signals to my brain, “I’m showing up today.” It’s a small act of self-care that boosts confidence and productivity. As a busy mom, I keep it simple with the “two-three rule”: do two out of three—outfit, hair, or makeup—and you’ll look and feel put together. For example, today I threw on an easy outfit and did five-minute makeup, leaving my hair as is. It’s not about perfection; it’s about intention.

Make Time for Reflection

Daily reading or reflection is a habit that grounds me. Whether it’s reading the Bible, a devotional, or spending time in prayer, this practice brings clarity and calm. I aim to do it in the morning to set the tone for my day, though with a one-year-old, it sometimes happens amidst chaos or in stolen moments in the car. Quiet time isn’t about perfect surroundings—it’s about slowing down and centering my heart and mind.

Reset Your Space, Reset Your Mind

Clutter affects more than just our physical space—it impacts our mental clarity. With a one-year-old who can create a mess in minutes, I rely on 5- to 10-minute “resets” throughout the day. Whether it’s tidying up after my son’s nap or putting things back in place, these small efforts keep our home manageable. Even if the mess returns (and it will!), these resets prevent things from spiraling out of control, fostering a space where I can relax and focus.

Nourish Your Body with Grace

My relationship with food hasn’t always been healthy. For years, I swung between calorie-counting and restrictive diets, feeling anxious if I wasn’t eating “perfectly.” Everything changed when I started seeing food as a gift to nourish, not control, my body. The 80/20 rule—80% nutrient-dense foods, 20% flexibility—gave me freedom to enjoy food without guilt. I focus on adding wholesome foods rather than restricting, making simple swaps like Greek yogurt for sour cream or sparkling water for soda. Tracking water and protein intake via Train Well’s app keeps things simple and sustainable.

Be Present with Loved Ones

My to-do list is endless, but I’ve learned it can wait. There’s no better use of my time than being present with my family. Even on busy days, I prioritize undivided attention for my husband and son—engaging, laughing, and making them feel seen. This practice keeps me grounded and reminds me that people, not tasks, are what matter most.

Stay Hydrated with Electrolytes

I’ve always been a water advocate, but during pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding, I couldn’t quench my thirst, even drinking a gallon a day. A friend suggested electrolytes, and it was a revelation. They help your body absorb water, reduce fatigue, and prevent cramps. I take them daily, especially in the afternoon, and it’s made a huge difference, particularly during active or demanding days.

Connect with Nature

Albert Einstein said, “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” I feel this every time I step outside. Whether it’s a walk, sipping coffee on the porch, or watering my flowers, time in nature resets my perspective and lifts my mood. Even a few minutes of fresh air can transform a tough day or elevate a good one.

Share Meals as a Family

Sitting down for at least one distraction-free meal together daily—usually dinner—grounds our family. It doesn’t need to be fancy; even leftovers work. This time to pause, talk, and connect strengthens our bond. Studies show regular family meals benefit kids’ health, relationships, and even grades. For us, it’s about fostering a home where everyone feels seen, loved, and heard.

Your Turn

These habits—sleep, movement, intentionality, reflection, tidying, nourishing, presence, hydration, nature, and connection—have changed my life. Now, I’d love to hear from you: what habits have transformed yours? Share in the comments below, and if you’re ready to make movement a daily habit, check out Train Well’s 14-day free trial via the link below. Thanks for joining me on this journey—here’s to building habits that help us thrive!

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