Phase Two, Step One: How 21 Days of Daily Habits Changed My Life

and Why They Matter


I’ve been through a lot over the past year — emotionally, mentally, and professionally. One thing that’s helped me stay grounded and keep growing is consistency. Step One of Phase Two of my therapy taught me something I didn’t fully realize before: the habits that get you through recovery aren’t temporary fixes — they’re how you live your life.

Today, 8/18/25, marks 21 days of keeping up with my daily rituals, and I can honestly say these habits have started to become second nature. I wanted to break them down and explain why each one matters, because I know a lot of people think habits are overrated until they see the results for themselves.


1. Protect My Peace — Morning Intention or Quick Journal Entry

The first thing I do every morning is protect my mental space. I write a quick journal entry or set an intention for the day. It doesn’t take long, but it frames my mindset before I get pulled into the chaos of the day. Without this, it’s easy to react instead of act — and reactiveness never leads to growth.


2. Hydrate — Energy Starts Here

It sounds simple, but water is fuel. If I don’t hydrate in the morning, I notice it immediately — fatigue, brain fog, irritability. Hydration is literally the baseline for everything else I do. When I take care of my body from the start, my energy and focus follow.


3. Move — Cardio, Strength, or Steps

Movement is non-negotiable. Some days it’s a full workout, other days it’s just hitting my step goal. But every time I move, my mind feels sharper, my mood lifts, and I feel in control of my body and my life. Movement isn’t punishment; it’s empowerment.


4. Feed My Faith — Scripture, Prayer, or Reflection

Faith isn’t just about religion — it’s about grounding yourself in something bigger than your daily struggles. Taking time to read scripture, pray, or reflect keeps me humble, reminds me of my purpose, and helps me handle challenges with perspective.


5. Fuel Right — Eat Like I Respect My Body

I’ve learned the hard way that you can’t outwork bad fuel. Eating clean and intentional meals isn’t about restriction; it’s about respect for yourself and your potential. When I nourish my body properly, everything else feels easier — energy, focus, mood, productivity — it all improves.


6. Create — 15+ Minutes on a Personal or Creative Project

Creating isn’t just a hobby; it’s therapy. Whether it’s writing, coding, or brainstorming ideas for Rise With Tech, spending time on something I love fuels my mind and keeps me connected to my purpose. It reminds me I’m building something meaningful, not just going through the motions.


7. Mantra — “You are still the catch. You weren’t rejected — you were redirected.”

Finally, I remind myself why I started this journey. Life will throw rejection, disappointment, and detours at you — that’s guaranteed. But how you respond defines you. Saying my mantra keeps me centered and resilient, especially when life gets messy.


Why These Habits Work

Consistency compounds. Doing these seven things daily isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up, even when I don’t feel like it. After 21 days, I’ve noticed real change: more energy, clearer thinking, better focus, and a deeper sense of control over my life.

The best part? These aren’t temporary. They’ve become part of who I am. They’re not a checklist anymore — they’re the foundation for everything I do, from personal growth to building Rise With Tech.


Takeaway:
Start small. Pick one habit, do it every day, and build from there. The results won’t be instant, but they will come — and when they do, you’ll see that consistency really is everything.


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