Creating Habits for Wellbeing

Written By Carole Donnelly

Okay, I confess… I’m just as guilty as anyone when it comes to resisting the nicer things in life.

As a Health Coach, you might think I’ve mastered the art of saying “no,” of setting perfect boundaries, of effortlessly choosing the kale over the cake. But here’s the truth…

I struggle too.

Why?

Because I’m a human being — not a human doing.

🍷 The “I Know Better… So Why Am I Still Doing It?” Trap

I know exactly what happens when I drink that extra glass of wine.
I know how my body reacts to too much sugar.
I know it affects my sleep… and yes, my mood too.

So naturally, the question is:

Why do I still do it?

And maybe you’re nodding along here, because you do the same.

🍫 When “Restriction” Backfires

I’ve also noticed something else…

The moment I completely restrict my favourite foods or drinks, they suddenly become irresistible. It’s like the rebellious part of my brain throws a full-blown tantrum:

  • Every advert becomes about chocolate 🍫

  • Every TV show features wine 🍷

  • Every social event revolves around the exact thing I’m avoiding

Honestly… it feels like the universe is testing me.

Sound familiar?

🛒 What Actually Works (For Me and My Clients)

When I work with my clients, we don’t rely on willpower alone (because let’s face it — that’s unreliable at best).

Instead, we focus on simple, practical strategies:

  • Shopping with intention (hello, shopping list!)

  • Not bringing temptation into the house

  • Creating easy, realistic meal plans

  • Keeping a food and mood diary to spot patterns

And here’s the thing… It works. Not perfectly. Not instantly. But consistently.

💡 My Lightbulb Moment

Like many of you, I’ve read the books.
I know the science.
I understand the “why.” But I still had moments of slipping back into old habits. Then it hit me:

“Fail to plan — plan to fail.”

Simple. Obvious. Powerful. And right alongside that…

👉 Accountability matters.

Doing it alone? That’s where things often fall apart — for me and for the people I coach.

🌿 Habits Take Time (And That’s Okay)

Let’s be honest… We don’t live in an ideal world where everything is calm, predictable, and perfectly balanced.

We live in a busy, noisy, sometimes chaotic world.
And that makes building habits harder — not impossible, just human.

Habits aren’t created overnight.
They’re built slowly, gently, and with repetition.

🌼 A Fresh Start This Spring

With the Spring Equinox here in the UK, it feels like the perfect moment for a reset.

Not a complete life overhaul. Not unrealistic rules.But small, kind, daily steps.

  • Choosing one better option

  • Planning just a little ahead

  • Being a bit more compassionate with yourself

Because wellbeing isn’t about perfection…

It’s about progress.

🌟 Ready to Start Your Own Habit Reset?

If this resonates with you and you’d like support creating simple, sustainable habits, I’d love to help.

You can book a no-obligation Impact Call here:
👉 https://calendly.com/carole-gyc/30min

Or explore more about our programmes:
👉 Golden Years Coaching | Enhance Your Wellness Today

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Carole Donnelly
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