Habits create a domino effect; once you begin a habit and stick with it, you can see the effects of it flowing into other areas of your life, for better or worse. But what if it’s easier than you think to make the healthy choice?

Most people put off developing healthy habits, especially at home, because it seems overwhelming while there are other important tasks at hand. Plus, there are copious self-help methods that promise you can change in a week. However, it takes time and dedication to change habits and get noticeable results. This year, you can cultivate a positive mindset about healthy habit development by following the three steps below.

1. Plan realistic goals

Planners are all the rage, and for good reason. A planner can help you to record your thoughts and remind you of your goals so you don’t forget them. However, don’t feel like you have to purchase a fancy or expensive planner to start organizing your life. With just a pencil and paper, you can develop a system that works for you, not against you.

A cleaning schedule

You shouldn’t feel the call to scrub and vacuum only during the mad dash right before any guests arrive. Instead, divide your home into zones, and tackle deep cleaning one zone per day, even if it’s for just ten minutes—you’re sure to see and feel a difference in your cleanliness. Plus, it can help you spot potential problems as a homeowner when you get into the nooks and crannies of every room. Here is an example of a weekly cleaning schedule you can adopt:

• Monday: Break day
• Tuesday: Living room and office
• Wednesday: Bedrooms and closets
• Thursday: Bathrooms and laundry room
• Friday: Break day
• Saturday: Kitchen and dining room
• Sunday: Entryway and hallways

Meal prepping

Improving your eating habits can help you in achieving your health goals, but what’s most important is that you plan your meals. Get excited about what you’re cooking! Dedicate time to preparing balanced and delicious foods. You are less likely to spend money and waste calories on junk foods if you go to the grocery store armed with a list. You don’t need to have an expensive meal-planning program or take a course; just browse sites such as starthealthy.com or explore Pinterest for inspiration.

2. Dedicate spaces

Your home is made up of rooms and areas that you use for different activities. Treat them as such. Instead of eating meals on the couch or working from your bed, create inviting spaces that can help keep you motivated and balanced.

Work space

If you work from home, it is of the utmost importance that you have an office or at least table space to call your own. When you do your work sitting or standing at a desk rather than on a couch or bed, you are less likely to feel tired and more likely to maintain your motivation and energy. 

Fitness

Exercise is an integral part of a healthy life. Consequently, you should dedicate all or part of a room in your home for a few pieces of equipment and keep an open floor for yoga, stretches, and cardio. Consider rearranging your furniture to create this space, and choose a place that is well-lit with good airflow.

Hobbies and relaxation

Time for yourself is essential for reflection and relaxation. Make a reading nook, crafting space, or music corner to call your own. Whatever your hobby may be, you’ll benefit the most from it when you have the space to practice.

3. Reduce clutter

Clutter can impact your mindset and therefore prevent you from even starting new habits in the first place.

Items in your home

Take inventory of the items you own. From furniture to kitchenware, ask yourself if you truly need that item or if you’ve used it much in the past year. Also, look at your decor  to determine if your style has evolved or needs updating. This is a good time to remove unwanted items and introduce a new aesthetic into your home.

Purposeful investments

Reward yourself after selling, donating, or tossing items with a few new replacements that will serve a good purpose in your home. Invest in a high-quality office organizer or an entryway bench with storage. Choose pieces that are intentional and that bring you increased peace of mind.

How you choose to implement these tips and on what timeline you execute them is up to you. All that matters is that you try a little each day to dedicate time toward your goals!