"A habit missed once is a mistake, a habit missed twice is the start of a new habit." - James Clear
This quote by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, is one of my favorites because it illustrates the power of consistency. Think about it: missing a workout, a healthy meal, or a productive routine isn’t the end of the world—it’s just a slip. But missing twice? That’s when it starts becoming something else entirely. When we allow a habit to slide, even for a day, it can be easy to think, “I’ll just skip today, and I’ll get back on track tomorrow.” But as Clear says, missing a habit twice can be the start of a new habit—one where missing becomes the default.
Consistency is the cornerstone of progress. It’s not about perfection, but about showing up, even when it’s not convenient, glamorous, or fun. A good workout isn’t always the one where you hit personal bests. Sometimes, it’s simply the one where you show up, stay active, and keep the momentum going. Similarly, the healthiest meal doesn’t always have to be a “perfect” meal. Simply choosing a healthier option than the day before keeps your intention strong and your momentum alive.
So, the next time you don’t feel like doing that workout or choosing the healthier meal, remember: consistency is about honoring your commitment to yourself. It’s not about doing everything perfectly every single time; it’s about reinforcing the habits you’re working hard to build. Missing one day doesn’t erase your progress, but allowing those small slips to multiply can undermine the very routines that help you reach your goals.
The small actions you take add up. Keep showing up for yourself, keep doing something, and let your actions be a reminder of your commitment to your health, fitness, and well-being.
