Sticky Like Honey: Forming Habits That Last This Rosh Hashanah

As we dip apples in honey this Rosh Hashanah, we’re not just asking for a sweet year ahead, we’re symbolically inviting sweetness into every part of our lives. Manifesting it. But sweetness, like growth, doesn’t happen by chance. It happens by choice. And most often, by habit.

That’s where James Clear’s bestselling book Atomic Habits comes in. Clear doesn’t just talk about forming habits, he talks about how to make them stick. In fact, if you want to create meaningful change this year — spiritually, physically, or emotionally, his method might be the best recipe you can follow (right after making your favorite honey cake).

The Power of Small Changes

Clear’s core philosophy is this: small changes, repeated consistently, lead to remarkable results. Want to be more patient? More grateful? More connected to your community? These aren’t resolutions to make once a year - they’re habits to build day by day.

Make it Sweet, Make it Stick

James Clear outlines four laws for building good habits:

1. Make it obvious
   
   
2. Make it attractive
   
   
3. Make it easy
   
   
4. Make it satisfying
   
   

If that doesn’t sound simply sweet like honey, I don’t know what does!

• Obvious: Keep your intentions visible. Just like we place honey on the table front and center, keep your goals where you can see them. Sticky notes, calendar entries, setting an alarm clock — having reminders and cues matter.
• Attractive: Pair habits with things you enjoy. Read a sefer while drinking your morning cup of coffee or tea. Find a friend to go on walks with and be your exercise buddy.
• Easy: Start small. If you want to pray with more kavanah, start with having intention by one tefillah or one line or one word, like Shem Hashem. ( Inspired by Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz).
• Satisfying: Celebrate your wins. A checkmark. A moment of gratitude. A physical treat. A pat on the back, or a smile. Whatever helps your brain say, “Let’s do that again.”
  
  

This Rosh Hashanah, Step into the version of yourself you would like to become!

Clear says, “Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.” Judaism teaches the same: that we are not just judged by our past but defined by what we choose next.

So this year, when you dip your apple in honey, ask yourself:

•  What habits will make this year truly sweet?

•  Who do I want to become, and what small habit can I start today to cast my vote for that version of myself?

•  Would working with a health coach help me close the gap between what I value and want, and what I actually do and practice?

May your year be filled with sweetness — not just in flavor, but in action, intention, and growth.

Shanah Tovah U'Metukah

Wishing you all the best

Coach Meira