What kind of person do you wish to be?
As the new year unfolds (and with it, the rain!), I’ve been reflecting on something both incredibly simple and deeply profound: habits.
The small actions we take each day might seem insignificant, but they have a cumulative power to shape not only our routines but also our identity. A concept I’ve been sitting with a lot lately, inspired by James Clear’s Atomic Habits:
“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.”
For years, I’ve told myself stories about who I am:
“I’m an all-or-nothing kind of person.”
“I’m not good enough to take the next step.”
“I’m too injured, too old, too tired, or too busy to change.”
These stories almost stopped me from signing up for my latest teacher training—a decision that wasn’t about becoming a “better yoga teacher” but about choosing the kind of person I want to be.
Lately, I’ve been grieving the body I once had. A significant hip injury, ongoing shoulder pain, and hints of arthritis left me wallowing in self-pity more than I care to admit. At one point, I even considered stepping back altogether. “I’m too old,” I told myself. “My body just isn’t capable anymore.”
But then, I reminded myself of something I often share in class: the power of gratitude. Instead of focusing on what I’ve lost, I began to appreciate what I still have—the strength to move, the courage to start again, and the resilience to keep going. Gratitude didn’t erase the challenges, but it helped me see beyond them.
So, I asked myself:
What kind of person do I wish to become?
The answer wasn’t “the perfect yoga teacher” or “the most agile person in the room.” It was simpler:
I want to be the type of person who doesn’t give up.
And so, I took that first step—and signed up for the training. Not as a declaration of expertise but as an act of curiosity, courage, and a commitment to growth.
From there, I realised: it’s not about waiting for a perfect moment. It’s about taking imperfect steps, even when it feels hard.
This beautiful gift from a dear friend reminded me of the power of small actions done with care. It’s the little things that mean the most.
So, what does that look like?
Showing up for myself with the body I have now.
Creating habits that are sustainable—not what I can do on my best day, but what I can manage on my worst.
Walking around the block, even when I’d rather stay in bed.
Being compassionate with myself when the wheels fall off (and they will)—acknowledging the setback and gently choosing to return to my path as soon as I can.
This isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Getting 1% better every day.
If you’ve been struggling to create change, you’re not alone. I want to encourage you to start small. Here’s how:
✨ Make it easy: Start with something so small it feels almost laughable—a walk around the block, one page of a book. The key is to make it so simple, you can’t fail.
✨ Make it obvious: Reduce friction. Lay out your yoga mat the night before, place your walking shoes by the door, or keep your journal on your bedside table—so everything is ready when you are.
✨ Make it attractive: Tie your habit to something you genuinely enjoy. For me, that’s coffee—movement first, coffee second. One of our students rewards themselves with KFC fries after yoga, and I absolutely love that!
✨ Make it satisfying: Celebrate the wins. Say “yes, I did it!” in your head, add a gold star to your calendar, or take pride in keeping a promise to yourself. A satisfying habit motivates you to keep going.
✨ Don’t miss twice: Life happens, and setbacks are guaranteed. What matters most is learning to adapt and recommit to your habits. Resilience, not perfection, makes all the difference.
Our habits shape our identity, and our identity reinforces our habits. Start by asking yourself:
What kind of person do I want to be?
Then let every small action cast a vote for that version of you.
I’m on this journey right alongside you—navigating my own injuries, doubts, and busy schedule. I’m not perfect, but I’m committed to showing up for myself and for all of you.
Here’s to becoming 1% better every day.
