The Becoming You Podcast

Habits vs. Rituals: Why One Sticks and the Other Actually Changes Your Life


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Have you ever set a habit with the best intentions… only to watch it slowly fade away?

If you’ve ever wondered why some changes never seem to stick, especially in seasons where life already feels full, you’re not alone. And it’s not because you lack discipline or motivation.

In this episode, we explore the powerful difference between habits and rituals, and why understanding that distinction can change the way you approach growth, self-care, and consistency (especially as a mom).

Drawing inspiration from the work of Michael Bungay Stanier, author of The Coaching Habit, this conversation reframes behaviour change in a way that feels realistic, compassionate, and sustainable. We talk about why resistance is a normal part of change, how to design around it, and why returning matters more than staying perfect.

You’ll also hear a personal story about skincare, not as an anti-aging routine, but as a ritual rooted in self-worth, nervous system regulation, and the belief that you deserve to be taken care of.

This episode is an invitation to stop forcing change, and start supporting yourself instead.

 

In This Episode, We Cover:
  • The key difference between habits and rituals, and why it matters

  • Why habits often fall apart in real life (especially for moms)

  • How rituals create meaning, flexibility, and self-trust

  • Why resistance is inevitable when trying something new

  • How to work with resistance instead of fighting it

  • Why starting small and easy makes change more sustainable

  • The power of support and not doing change alone

  • Why slipping doesn’t mean failing, and how returning creates real progress

     

    Key Takeaway:

    You don’t need more discipline or a full life overhaul. You need habits and rituals that meet you where you are, and permission to return without guilt when life gets messy.

     

    Chapters:

    0:00   Introduction and Acknowledgment

    1:54    Habits vs. Rituals
    4:28   Personal Example: Skincare
    8:12   The Power of Rituals
    9:48   Working with Resistance
    11:54  Community and Support
    13:01  Conclusion and Call to Action

    Next Steps

    If this episode resonated with you:

    • Share it with someone who might need this reminder

    • Follow the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming conversations

    • And if you’re looking for a supportive space where these topics continue, you’re always welcome inside my free community (linked below)

       

      Connect with Lisa:

      Instagram →   / selflovecoachingco  

      TikTok →   / thelisahardie  

      Join The Joyful Mom Collective → Join the Collective Here!

      Get weekly inspiration, resources, and more → www.lisahardiecoaching.com

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      The Becoming You PodcastBy Lisa Hardie