You don’t need to make huge changes at the start of each year to improve your life. Instead, you can slowly add new habits that will fill your days with energy and success, making you stronger and more accomplished over time. The key to any habit is doing it regularly, as its impact builds up gradually.

First, take a look back at your previous year and think about what you want to change: maybe it’s working less, spending more time with family, or cutting down on alcohol. This isn’t about super detailed plans, but rather about living a healthier life realistically.

Daily habits have a big impact on our well-being and mood. Bad habits can slowly harm your physical and mental health, while good habits can improve your life in many ways. The daily routines you follow don’t just affect you now; they shape your future too.

When you set goals, they often come with a deadline, a clear outcome, and the need for constant self-monitoring. For example, if you want to lose 10 pounds by May, it’s not just about losing weight but also maintaining that weight loss without losing your motivation. Strict self-control every day can be tough.

Instead, focus on developing small, good habits that lead to lasting results. Start simple: take a walk in the evening, do a quick morning workout, cut sugar from your coffee, or eat more vegetables instead of cereals. Doing the same thing daily for three weeks can help create new brain pathways, making the habit automatic and easier to stick to.

Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Begin with habits that require little effort. Instead of committing to long workouts, start with just five sit-ups and five push-ups each morning. This takes just two minutes, and you won’t be able to use a lack of time as an excuse. Once you’re used to starting your day with some physical activity, gradually increase the difficulty.

2. It’s okay if you occasionally miss a day, but try not to skip more than one day in a row. Since repetition rewires the brain, regularity is crucial.

3. Plan for different scenarios. How will you maintain your habits when things aren’t normal? One of my habits is to put my phone away in the evening and cook dinner with my loved ones. If I’m on a business trip, I might have a virtual dinner with friends instead.

4. Track your progress by marking completed tasks on a calendar. Try to keep the streak going as long as possible so the habit becomes second nature.

Consider incorporating these top 30 daily good habits into your routine. It’s time to take action and make this year your best one yet!