By Jodi Minker
As the new year begins, it’s natural to feel motivated to reflect on our health and well-being. January has long been associated with New Year’s resolutions — often ambitious, all-or-nothing goals that can feel inspiring at first but difficult to sustain once daily life resumes. Research and experience suggest that lasting change doesn’t come from drastic overhauls, but from small, consistent habits that fit naturally into everyday life.
Rather than setting rigid resolutions, one idea is to choose to begin the year with intentions — simple goals focused on building healthier habits over time. Habits formed gradually and practiced consistently are more likely to become part of daily routines, supporting not only physical health, but mental and emotional well-being as well.
“Healthy habits don’t have to be big to make a real difference,” said Tracey Durso, program executive of Healthy Living at the Olympic Peninsula YMCA. “Start small, pair them with something you already do every day, and over time, those simple actions can build consistency and confidence that last.”
“Even tiny actions, done consistently, can transform your daily routine,” Durso said. “Try linking a new habit to something familiar, like brushing your teeth or having your morning coffee, and soon it becomes part of your life without even thinking about it.”
One proven way to create habits that stick is to connect a new behavior to an existing routine. Stretching while brushing your teeth, taking a few deep breaths while waiting for your coffee to brew, or going for a short walk after dinner are all examples of small actions that can become automatic when tied to habits already in place.
At the YMCA we encourage everyone to set intentions that reflect this more sustainable approach to health. Members shared their goals which highlight not just fitness, but balance, connection, and quality of life.
Some goals are deeply personal, like Peter Lavelle’s intention “to be a better, more compassionate person,” or Dave Williams’ goal of “maintaining relative sanity in a world where up is down and down is up,” noting that the YMCA plays a key role in helping him do just that. Others focus on connection, such as Savannah Minker’s simple but powerful goal: “Spend more time with my mom.”
Many members are building habits around movement and physical health in ways that fit their lives. Celeste Staton shared her goal “to move, stretch, and relax into a happy place,” using swimming, sauna, steam, and hydrotherapy to support her well-being. Victoria Schenck plans to swim three times a week for one month, then continue at least twice weekly for the rest of the year — an example of starting with a manageable habit and building from there.
For some, health goals are about independence and longevity. Loretta Jones shared that her focus is on maintaining balance, strength, and endurance so she can continue living independently, noting that “the socialization aspect of attending the gym is very beneficial to overall well being.” Brad Hussey, who has experienced two strokes, shared his hope “to walk a little better and lose that extra 30 pounds,” a reminder that progress looks different for everyone.
“At the YMCA, we offer so many ways for people to work toward their health and wellness goals,” Durso said. “Whether it’s aquatics, group exercise classes, personal training, outdoor excursions, or enrichment programs like rock painting and knitting, each activity gives you a chance to build small habits, connect with others, and create accountability. Those connections are just as important as fitness.”
Across the Olympic Peninsula YMCA — including Sequim, Port Angeles, and Jefferson County — the focus is on meeting people where they are and supporting healthy living in spirit, mind, and body.
As this new year unfolds, releasing the pressure of perfection and focusing instead on progress can make all the difference. Small habits, practiced daily and supported by the community, often lead to the most lasting change.
For those curious about where to begin, the Olympic Peninsula YMCA invites the community to Try the Y Day on Saturday, Jan. 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free, community-wide event at all YMCA branches is an opportunity to explore programs, meet staff, and discover what healthy living could look like for you — no pressure, just possibility.
Sometimes, the smallest steps are the ones that carry us the farthest.
For more information about the YMCA, visit olympicpeninsulaymca.org.
Try the Y Day
Saturday, Jan. 17
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sequim YMCA, 610 N. Fifth Ave.
Photo courtesy Olympic Peninsula YMCA
Peter Lavelle said he works out in the pool to benefit his mind, body and spirit.
Photo courtesy Olympic Peninsula YMCA/
Brad Hussey said he comes to the Y to keep from being isolated at home. He gets a workout, and talking to fellow Y members helps with the speech therapy he has been undergoing since suffering a stroke.
Photo courtesy Olympic Peninsula YMCA/
Michele Jaeger utilizes an elliptical at the Y as part of her goal to be consistent with exercise so that she can keep up her quality of life.
