Complementary Text:

Long-term adherence is not about willpower; it's about creating an environment and a set of identity-based habits that are automatic. The process of identifying your "non-negotiables" leverages a concept from behavioral science called 'keystone habits'—these are routines that, once established, have a ripple effect, making other healthy behaviors easier to maintain. Your monthly check-in is a form of 'implementation intention,' a proven strategy for habit maintenance.

References:

Kwasnicka, D., et al. (2016). Theoretical explanations for maintenance of behaviour change. Health Psychology Review.

Greaves, C., et al. (2017). Understanding the challenge of weight loss maintenance. Health Psychology Review.