Let’s be real: you don’t magically become a different person just because the calendar flipped to 2026. You can decide to start a new habit or change paths on a random Tuesday in August if you want to. But if you’ve got a bit of mental bandwidth right now during the Australian summer, here is a realistic health reset for 2026 that actually fits your life.
While things are a bit quieter and we’re (hopefully) enjoying some downtime, we finally have the breathing room to think. It’s a rare chance to look at how we’re living without being mid-sprint in the daily grind.
If you’ve got a bit of mental bandwidth right now, here’s a realistic way to use it to set yourself up for a better year.
1. Check in with yourself
Forget the “life audits.” Just ask yourself: How am I actually feeling right now? Are there parts of your daily routine that just feel… off? Maybe you’re always tired, or you’ve realized your current habits are a bit stuck. Use this quiet time to figure out what’s actually bothering you so you aren’t just guessing.
2. What actually worked last year?
Before you bin everything from 2025, look at what went well. Did you manage to get to bed earlier some nights? Did you actually enjoy those weekend walks? Give yourself some credit for the wins, and be honest about the stuff that didn’t work. If a habit didn’t stick last year, it’s probably because it didn’t fit your life—not because you failed.
3. Pick one thing. Just one.
The quickest way to fail is trying to change everything at once. Instead of a massive list of resolutions, just pick one small thing to focus on for the next few months. Whether it’s drinking more water, actually taking a lunch break, or moving your body for 15 minutes, keep it simple. It’s better to do one thing well than five things halfway.
4. Make it easy for yourself
Once the “real world” starts back up and 2026 gets busy, your new plans will be the first thing to go if they’re too hard. Use this downtime to set up some shortcuts:
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Keep meals simple: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef. Just plan a few easy, healthy go-tos for those nights when you’re exhausted.
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Share the load: If you’re doing everything at home, you won’t have time for yourself. Chat with the people you live with about sharing the chores.
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Find the “path of least resistance”: If you hate the gym, don’t join one. If you aren’t a morning person, don’t try to exercise at 5 AM. Pick a time and an activity that feels like less of a chore.
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Use tech for the boring stuff: If online grocery shopping saves you two hours of wandering aisles, do it.
A few thoughts on keeping it real
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Start small: Go for the “easy wins” first. Once you prove to yourself you can stick to a small change, you’ll actually have the confidence to try something bigger later on.
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Be kind to yourself: Some weeks will go great; others will be a total mess. That’s just life. If you fall off the wagon, just hop back on the next day. No big deal.
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Celebrate the boring stuff: High-five yourself for the small stuff, like choosing water over a second coffee or actually getting to sleep on time. Those are the things that actually add up.
Ready for 2026?
This time of year isn’t about a “new you”—you’re already doing great. It’s just a good moment to use the summer pause to think about what you need to feel a bit better.
What’s one small thing you can do for yourself while the pace is still a bit slower?
TIP: Once you’ve got your “one thing” sorted, the trick is figuring out how to protect it when life gets loud again!
Disclaimer: The information on this blog is for general knowledge and education only. It is not personalized health or medical advice. We highly recommend you consult with your doctor before beginning any fitness program. Karen El-Azzi, the founder and sole trader of Thrive Together, and its coaches, are not liable for any injury or adverse effects that result from following the general information provided here.