How Streaks Help Us Build Good Habits and Achieve Goals
By Amy Jacques
March 2025
“Streaks can motivate us, help us build good habits and aid us in reaching our goals. If you’re looking for a way to stick to a New Year’s resolution beyond January, a streak could help,” says an article in The New York Times.
Behavioral economists say that streaks work because of loss aversion and potential gain. Whether it’s a daily running, reading or meditation habit, trying not to break a streak can help with productivity.
The idea of working toward a reward, prize or goal can be very motivating. The fear of losing something or letting yourself down can also be a strong motivator. Both can help people stay on track toward their goals.
“Plus, being able to cross something off your to-do list every day can add meaning to your life,” the article says.
To turn a streak into a habit, try to make it easy to repeat the behavior. If you repeat something often enough and in the same way, then it may turn into a regular pattern.
Also, to reinforce the streak, choose something that you enjoy and would even do on a weekend or on vacation, the article says. This way, you’ll be more likely to stick with it.
Allow yourself to miss a day every now and then (but not two days in a row). Giving yourself grace and the ability to take a day off can lead to a more successful habit.
Additionally, if doing something daily isn’t realistic, then you can create bi-weekly or weekly routines. It can still be considered a streak as long as you are making progress and doing something on a regular basis.
Try adding some fun to the process as well. “Gamification is a powerful tool: Finding an app with a game structure that appeals to you can help you keep going,” the Times adds.
Consider adopting a new habit or routine — and getting on a streak — to help you procrastinate less, develop more self-discipline in other areas and stay motivated.
Here’s how you can get on a roll to help you achieve your goals.
- Pick something you enjoy.
- Take advantage of technology and gamification.
- Treat yourself with compassion.
- Consider what else you gain.
Amy Jacques
Amy Jacques is the managing editor of publications for PRSA. A native of Greenville, S.C., she holds a master’s degree in arts journalism from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising from the University of Georgia’s Grady College and a certificate in magazine and website publishing from New York University.
