Momentum Over Motivation: How to Make Your 2026 Transformative

By Suzanne Hamil, LMSW/RSW

The new year is here, and many of us are brimming with inspiration. We’ve set intentions. We’ve dreamed about what’s possible. We’ve imagined the version of ourselves that finally thrives.

But here’s the truth: motivation is fleeting.

Motivation is a spark. Momentum is the fire.

If you want 2026 to be extraordinary, you don’t wait for motivation - you build momentum.

Momentum starts small. It begins with one thought, one choice, one action aligned with the person you want to become.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy teaches us that our thoughts shape our behaviors.

So, today, ask yourself: “What thought will I choose that moves me forward?”

A thought like: I can take one intentional step today, or I am capable of growth, even if it’s small.

Change doesn’t require perfection - it requires consistency.

Self-compassion is your secret weapon in building momentum.

The path won’t be smooth. You’ll stumble. You’ll miss a day, a habit, or a goal.

Without self-compassion, you risk giving up entirely.

With self-compassion, you can say: “I’m learning. I’ll start again. Every step counts.”

This is what transforms small actions into unstoppable momentum.

Let’s not forget the foundation of sustainable change: your nervous system. A regulated nervous system allows you to act from clarity rather than stress, to respond instead of react, and to sustain action over time.

When you feel safe in your body, your energy aligns with your intentions. You don’t just act once - you continue moving forward, even in the face of obstacles.

So, how do you create momentum for 2026?

1. Start small: One action a day is more powerful than a huge leap followed by burnout.

2. Stay aligned with your values: Ask, “Does this choice reflect who I want to be?”

3. Practice self-compassion: Every stumble is an opportunity to reset, not a reason to quit.

4. Regulate your body and mind: Ground, breathe, and center yourself before making decisions - this is how momentum sustains itself.

Momentum compounds. One small step today leads to another tomorrow. Soon, you realize you are not the person you were yesterday - you are the person you imagined. That is the power of starting now, of moving deliberately, and of staying consistent with kindness toward yourself.

So, as we step into 2026, remember: Don’t wait for motivation. Don’t wait for the perfect moment.

Create momentum.

Take the small, intentional steps that will carry you through this year and beyond. Your actions, repeated with compassion, aligned with your values, and supported by a calm, resilient nervous system, will shape the extraordinary year you imagined.

Here’s to making 2026 your most transformative year yet - one step, one thought, and one compassionate choice at a time.