7 Habits of Highly Healthy People

Since I've taken such a keen interest in my health over the last couple of years, and particularly since I've adopted a Paleo lifestyle I've come to be surrounded by more and more healthy people.  It doesn't take long to realise that these people have a lot in common.  I've been trying to understand exactly what they do differently, so that I can try to adopt these habits myself.

1.  View food as nutrition and fuel.

Healthy people see food purely as a means of providing their bodies with the fuel and nutrients they need – not for pleasure and enjoyment.  They are never obsessed with where their next meal is coming from and with constant thoughts of their favourite type of junk food.

2.  Prioritise healthy lifestyle above all other distractions

Healthy people have their health as their number one priority.  This makes it easy for them to decline social invitations that they know will mean poor nutrition, poor sleep and a hard training session the next day.  They constantly keep their focus on their health, instead of being easily tempted by distractions that go against these aims.

3.  Consistently get adequate sleep & get up early

I’m realising more and more how crucial sleep is to leading a healthy lifestyle.  Healthy people almost always seem to have a routine of getting up early and going to bed early (because they know they can’t burn the candle at both ends).  Going to bed earlier means being more organised with evening meals and of course, not staying out all night on social events.  Consistently having proper rest allows the body to recover and recharge ready for the next day.  Sleep also seems to have crucial roles in how the body stores fat as well as willpower and concentration.

4.  Surround themselves with healthy people.

Healthy people tend to have healthy friends.  Having a circle of healthy friends means meals out and social events will be based around healthy food and activities.  A group of friends with a similar outlook will also serve to inspire and motivate.

5.  Seamlessly integrate fitness into their daily routines

Fit people don’t have to rearrange their day and cancel arrangements to squeeze some exercise into their day.  They have established routines that centre around fitness.  For example, getting up early every morning to get some training in before work or walking to work.  They will routinely take the stairs instead of the lift – and perhaps even work at a standing desk!

6.  Results not excuses

Successful, healthy people don’t make excuses.  It might be raining, they might be tired, they might have an important meeting, or a friend visiting.  It makes no difference.  They will still eat well and exercise.  They won’t allow these factors to impact their life.  The motivation to stay fit and healthy is far more significant to them than the temptation to give into any excuses.

7.  Healthy self image

Crucially, healthy people seem to visualise themselves as just that, fit and healthy.  Those who are not yet there, may instead visualise themselves as unfit, unhealthy and overweight – all negative connotations that can only hinder their efforts.

Do you agree with my observations?  Have you noticed any other traits healthy people seem to have in common?

How to Cultivate Healthy Habits That Actually Stick

Adopting these seven habits isn’t about being perfect — it’s about creating a lifestyle where good health becomes your default. For many people transitioning into a Paleo lifestyle, it starts with the food. But over time, you realise that true health is about so much more than just what’s on your plate.

If you’re trying to become one of those “highly healthy” people yourself, here are a few practical steps to help make those habits sustainable:

Start With One Habit at a Time

It’s tempting to overhaul everything all at once — but real change tends to happen when you focus on one habit, master it, then move on to the next. For example, begin by fixing your sleep. Once you’re consistently getting enough rest, you’ll have more energy for morning workouts, meal prep, and mental focus.

Build Systems, Not Willpower

Highly healthy people don’t rely on motivation every single day — they build routines and systems that make healthy choices automatic. That might mean prepping all your meals on a Sunday, keeping workout gear by the door, or going to bed at the same time each night without exception. Systems reduce decision fatigue and help make consistency effortless.

Design Your Environment for Success

If you want to eat well, make sure your pantry and fridge are stocked with nutrient-dense foods — and nothing else. Want to walk more? Make sure your shoes are comfy and your schedule allows for movement. The more your environment supports your goals, the less friction you’ll encounter.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Healthy people aren’t perfect — they just recover quickly when they slip. One bad meal doesn’t turn into a week off track. One skipped workout doesn’t become a lost month. Consistency is what matters, and the sooner you get back into your rhythm, the better your long-term results.

Connect With Like-Minded People

Finding others on a similar path — whether through a local Paleo group, a CrossFit gym, or even online — can make a huge difference. Community offers support, accountability, and shared inspiration. And as the old saying goes, you become the average of the five people you spend the most time with.

Becoming One of the “Highly Healthy” Is Within Reach

You don’t have to be born with superhuman discipline to create a fit, vibrant, and healthy life. You just need the right habits — built gradually, with intention and patience.

Whether you’re brand new to Paleo or have been living this way for years, what matters is your consistency and mindset. The habits listed above are not just for elite athletes or wellness influencers — they’re achievable for everyday people who are ready to take ownership of their health.

So, which of the seven habits are you already doing? Which one are you going to tackle next? Let me know in the comments — and share your own personal strategies or healthy routines that help you thrive.

Let’s build better health together, one habit at a time.