How I Changed My Habits by Changing My Surroundings

There was a phase when I thought the problem was me.

I’d miss a journal entry or hit snooze one too many times, and instantly label myself lazy or undisciplined.

But over time, I began noticing something I hadn’t really considered:

My surroundings had more influence on my habits than I realized.

It wasn’t always about willpower—it was often about what was quietly nudging me throughout the day.

1. My Space Was Nudging Me—Without Me Realizing

Think about it:

Your phone on your desk? That’s an invitation to scroll.

A cluttered table? It makes focusing harder.

A water bottle in sight? That’s a reminder to hydrate.

These tiny cues shape what we do each day. Not because we decide—but because they’re there.

2. I Made Small Changes That Took the Pressure Off

I didn’t do a big reset. I just moved things around—on purpose.

• I kept my journal on my pillow so I’d write before bed.
• I moved snacks to the back of the shelf.
• I turned off notifications during deep work hours.

Each little tweak made it less about “pushing through” and more about following a path that was already clear.

3. Easy Access Made Habits Stick

The simpler the first step, the more likely I’d do it.

• I laid my workout clothes next to my bed.
• Left a pen open on my notebook.
• Set reminders that showed up before I’d even start resisting.

Starting didn’t feel like a chore anymore—it felt natural.

4. I Also Removed What Distracted Me

A huge part of improving my habits wasn’t just adding helpful tools. It was clearing space.

• I moved my phone away from where I work.
• Muted apps I didn’t need during the day.
• Tidied up the spot where I do creative work.

With fewer distractions around, I didn’t need to fight my way into focus—it just happened.

5. My Environment Became an Extension of My Intentions

One day I looked around and realized:

My surroundings were either pulling me forward—or pulling me back.

That’s when I started designing them with care.

Not in a Pinterest-perfect way, but with purpose.

I wanted my space to remind me of who I’m becoming.

So I placed things where they made it easier to act like that person.

You don’t always need more discipline.

Sometimes, all you need is to look around and ask:

“What in this space is helping me—and what’s making it harder?”

Even a few small shifts can make a big difference.

Because when your environment supports your habits, change feels less like a fight—and more like flow.