Happy Tuesday, Reader!

Last week, we talked about creating a roadmap for 2026 instead of rigid resolutions. This week, let's talk about the habits that will actually get you there—and why they probably won't stick without the right support.

Habit-building is like constructing a house.

New habits generally don't stick without help. They require scaffolding.

In construction, those metal frames don't stick around forever. They're used to prop things up and create access during the building process, then they're removed once the structure can stand on its own.

If you feel like you're always failing at developing new habits or breaking bad ones, perhaps it's time to invest in scaffolding. Here are two types that actually work.

1. Coaching

I don't know a more reliable way to ensure I achieve what I set out to do than to hire a coach for it. Whether it's fitness or financial health, hiring and aligning with a partner who has a little more expertise than I do and holds me accountable is critical.

The thing is, both those pieces are important when finding the right coach: expertise AND accountability. That's the secret sauce of great coaching, whether your aspirations are to run a marathon or build a sustainable business.

2. Community

If you're anything like me, you're most likely to use a habits tracker, set up systems in your home, or try calendarizing to solidify new habits. But a better strategy than any of these solo tools is the simple (but yes, sometimes terrifying) move to community.

If you want to get in great shape, joining group fitness classes or a running club is more likely to help than a TikTok influencer's workout app. If you want to build your business, a supportive community of other founders in a similar (or even slightly more advanced) place than you is more effective than buying a course or a how-to book.

Put coaching and community together and magic happens.

I always make sure I'm in at least one community connected to my goals and working with a coach on one or two areas I want to develop.

This year, for example, I'm continuing a deep commitment to my fitness and writing journeys. So, I'm working with a coach in both areas. I participate in a local women-focused gym with lots of opportunities to be together, in community, outside of our 6 am workouts. And I go to a writing group at The Carnegie Center here in Lexington.

You don't need another app or on-demand training. You need people as scaffolding until your habits are strong enough to sustain on their own.

And bonus? You'll likely make some new friends that travel with you long after those habits are built.

Until next time,

Renia C.

P.S. - Speaking of coaching and community—The $250K Club founding cohort starts January 27 and brings both together. You'll get expert guidance through the Do Better Business™ Method while building alongside other founders who are ready to scale sustainably. Join us here, or share this with someone who's ready to stop guessing and start growing.

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