September 2025 

The Power of Showing Up (Even when it’s Messy!)

 

As a mum, I’m very familiar with mess. I can spend the whole day cleaning and tidying while the kids are at school, and within minutes of them being home, it looks like I never touched a thing. ARHhhhh!

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When my workspace is messy, I’m less productive. When my house is messy, I feel more stressed. And when my kitchen is messy, I’m far less inclined to cook.

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So unless you’re talking about the footballer, when we think of “messy,” it usually feels all bad.

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But here’s a curveball (and believe me, this was tough for me to accept, because I hate mess): when we’re trying to create new habits—more exercise, healthier eating, better sleep—should we be aiming for perfect, clean, and ideal? Or is it okay if it’s a little rough around the edges?

 

I think yes. Because the truth is, life is messy. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and often overwhelming. Creating habits can help bring order, but they don’t need to be flawless.

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Take daily movement, for example. It’s part of my routine, but is it perfectly structured? Nope. Honestly, it’s pretty messy. But here’s the thing: it fits into my messy life.

• Can I always find a class that fits into my schedule? No. Sometimes I do an online workout instead.

• Do I always have time for a long walk to hit 10,000 steps? No. But I can often squeeze in 10 minutes for 2,000.

• Does my body always want an intense workout? No. Sometimes light mobility work is enough.​

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Here’s the catch: not aiming for perfect isn’t the same as not bothering.

Healthy habits are about showing up for yourself consistently—even in small ways. Over time, this consistency shapes your identity. It’s less about rigid end goals and more about building blocks that are adaptable, sustainable, and enjoyable.

 

Because when your habits feel good, you’re far more likely to keep them going.

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So, what small habit could you add into your life—imperfect though it may be—that could help you become the person you truly want to be?