Making your 2026 health goals stick: five pro tips from Dr Eunise Yeo

As we step into 2026, the familiar buzz of New Year’s resolutions is in the air. We start January with the best intentions – joining the gym, fixing our posture, or finally addressing that nagging back pain. Yet by mid-February, many of these goals begin to fade.

We sat down with Dr Eunise Yeo, a leading chiropractor at Docklands Health, to explore how to break that cycle. With a background in musculoskeletal sonography and functional exercise rehabilitation, Dr Yeo takes a “root cause” approach to health. Here are her five practical tips to help make your 2026 health goals last.

1. Move beyond “pain relief”

“Too often, people set goals only when they’re in pain,” Dr Yeo says. “But health is about function, not just the absence of symptoms.”

Rather than aiming to simply stop pain, she suggests linking goals to real-life outcomes – like lifting your kids comfortably, hiking without fear, or training for an event. Functional goals are more motivating and easier to maintain.

2. Focus on the root cause, not the quick fix

In a world of instant solutions, Dr Yeo encourages playing the long game. “People want a quick adjustment to undo years of poor posture, but lasting change comes from addressing underlying mechanics.”

Choose one foundational habit – such as improving your workstation or committing to daily mobility – instead of chasing fad fixes. Sustainable progress comes from consistency, not shortcuts.

3. Add “functional snacks” to your day

You don’t need long gym sessions to improve your health. Dr Yeo believes in regular movement throughout the day – what she calls “functional snacks”.

Stretch while the kettle boils. Practice balance while brushing your teeth. Small, frequent movements lower the barrier to entry and build resilience over time.

4. Listen to your body’s signals

“Don’t ignore the whispers before they become screams,” Dr Yeo warns. Persistent pain or extreme fatigue is a sign to reassess.

Pay attention to how your body responds to exercise, food and rest. Working with your body – not against it – leads to better long-term outcomes.

5. Build a support squad

“Health isn’t a solo journey,” Dr Yeo says. Whether it’s a gym buddy, a running group, or a healthcare professional, accountability matters.

Support systems make it far more likely you’ll stay on track when motivation dips – and that’s when it matters most. •