Why I’m Committing to an Apple a Day

When I created my list for the Surefooted Challenge, I wanted to make sure it was realistic. The SURE goal-setting method emphasizes honesty - choosing goals / habits you can actually sustain. That naturally led me toward micro-habits: simple practices that fit into daily life without requiring a major overhaul.

What I’m really curious about is how these micro-habits impact my overall wellness. If I can’t stick with a habit for a month, then the purpose of the experiment is lost, at least to some extent.

An apple a day is one of those micro-habits I genuinely believe I can sustain because…

I’ve always loved apples!

In fact, a former boss used to joke that I never left work without one in hand - often eating it on my walk home, sometimes even while wearing my winter gloves!

The Science Behind It

The saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” may be old, but it’s grounded in at least some wisdom. Apples are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and key vitamins that support digestion, heart health, and overall well being. Eating one consistently is a small, steady way to nourish my body.

Books like Eat to Beat Disease by Dr. William Li reinforce this idea. His work focuses on how simple, everyday food choices can strengthen the body over time - not through extremes, but through consistency and care. It’s a reminder that meaningful health benefits often come from what we do regularly, not perfectly.

My “Why”

This habit is about intention as much as nutrition.

By choosing to eat an apple each day, I’m reminding myself to slow down and eat with awareness - to think more carefully about what I put into my body. It’s a quiet nudge toward prioritizing real, whole foods over heavily processed options that may taste great but offer little true nourishment.

It’s the only food-related goal / habit on my list, and that feels important. I didn’t want eating to become complicated or restrictive. This is simple, grounding, and sustainable - and I genuinely look forward to it.

Connection to My Values

This habit reflects values that matter deeply to me:

• Consistency over intensity

• Choosing real food whenever possible

• Caring for my future self through small daily actions

What I Hope to Learn This Month

I’m curious about how a single, intentional food choice each day might influence my awareness and decision-making around eating more broadly.

Some questions I’m holding include:

• Does one mindful choice make others easier?

• How does simplicity affect my relationship with food?

• What shifts when nourishment feels intentional rather than automatic?

Invitation

How does this land for you?
Is there a simple food habit that helps you eat more intentionally or prioritize real food?
Are there small, everyday choices that help you feel more grounded or nourished?
What’s one food you genuinely enjoy that also feels like an act of care?
How does slowing down, even briefly, change your experience when eating?

There’s no right answer - just curiosity. If you would like to share or want to join others in building intention, join us over in the community.