Habit trackers are a common element of many planners. We have seen them as a way to increase awareness, build motivation, and follow our progress when increasing healthy habits.

However, for the perfectionist—habit trackers can be a source of self criticism. Is it possible your habit tracker is actually making habit building harder? I am not suggesting we get rid of habit trackers, in fact—The Nine to Kind Planner has a weekly habit tacker! When I am suggesting is that we take a more compassionate approach.

How can you track your habits with compassionate accountability?

Here are a few things to consider:

• Remember your intention. You have probably heard the phrase “remember your why,” and this even applies to creating your healthy habits. If our intention sounds too harsh or demanding (i.e: “Get off your lazy butt and move your body”) you might need to reconsider. A solid intention is connected with values and with a broad theme. For example, a value of “to be healthy” can apply to the theme of consistent eating, movement, taking medication, or more! Tracking a habit of “daily movement” is more likely to be met than “work out for 1 hour.”
  

• Start with a number you will meet. It’s easy to force a daily habit onto ourselves. But let’s be real, as soon as we try a habit life is going to do its thing and get in the way! Consider trying a goal of 2x a week and build from there.
  

• Use a curious mindset for problem solving. When a goal isn’t being met, instead of beating yourself up—get curious and investigate what’s happening. Maybe your timing isn’t right or you need another thing in place. Explore the possibilities of what can support building that habit!

Putting these suggestions into practice might take some time and feel unnatural at first. It makes sense why so many of us were taught to increase habits through strict discipline and consequences. Here’s the thing, natural consequences and feeling the cringe is hard enough—why add to it? Notice the discomfort and keep that compassionate mindset going!

The Nine to Kind Possibility Planner is your source for compassionate accountability in all areas of your life. Get yours today and have your compassionate accountability partner!