As the year winds down, it is hard not to start thinking about fresh starts and new routines. The problem is that many New Year’s resolutions burn out before January is over, usually because they ask for too much too soon. Cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeremy London says real change does not have to be complicated. In a short TikTok-style rundown, he highlighted seven practical habits that can make everyday life feel noticeably better if you build them into your week.
First, he suggests setting an alarm for bedtime, not just for waking up. People often protect their morning schedule while letting nights stretch later and later, which quietly steals rest. If the goal is roughly eight hours of sleep, the start time matters as much as the end time. A simple reminder to begin winding down can help make sleep more consistent instead of accidental.
He also encourages getting daylight into your eyes every day, even in winter. Natural light supports the body’s internal clock, and short days can throw that rhythm off faster than many expect. Another small habit is a brief walk after meals, ideally 10 to 20 minutes. Dr. London says this can be surprisingly helpful for how the body handles blood sugar, and it is an easy routine that does not require special equipment or a gym membership.
@drjeremylondon 7 health habits that could change your life in 2026 #doctor #habits #hearthealth #newyearsresolution #fyp ♬ original sound – Dr. Jeremy London, MD
Alcohol is also on his list, and he describes cutting it out as a turning point for him personally. With “Dry January” often arriving right after the holidays, he sees the start of 2026 as a good moment to reduce drinking or take a full break. For exercise, his approach is realistic but direct. Instead of aiming for perfection, he recommends doing at least one high-intensity aerobic session each week, basically pushing beyond your usual comfortable pace whether you walk, run, cycle, or do something similar.
The final two tips are about staying steady, not extreme. Carrying a water bottle makes hydration far more likely because it removes the hassle of constantly refilling a glass. And he emphasizes strength training, including lifting weights, as a core habit worth prioritizing for overall health and resilience as the years add up.
Which of these habits feels easiest to start in January, and which one do you think would make the biggest difference for you in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments.
