Looking ahead to 2026

Every year, I share a few thoughts with you all for the year ahead. And this year I want to focus my message on food.

Yes, exercise is still incredibly important and getting people moving more will always be my mission. But one thing I’ve come to accept about myself this year is that I find sticking to a healthy diet all year round very difficult. And I’m not alone because I know so many people feel the same. For me, exercise is easier because it’s been in my DNA to move since I was a kid. I love how exercise makes me feel, but I really do struggle to be consistent with the food.

There are two dominating factors affecting my ability to make healthy food choices: these are a lack of sleep and my stress levels.

It's quite simple, really. The less sleep I get and the more stressed I feel, the more I turn to sugar and junk food to make myself feel better. The irony is that it never actually works - I never feel better. It never gives me energy and always leaves me feeling more tired, bloated and in an even more stressed and negative headspace.

I’ve also learned to understand that it’s not our fault that we struggle with this stuff. The ultra processed foods we turn to when we feel stressed or emotional are designed to be addictive, so it’s very easy to fall into bad habits fast and physically crave this stuff every day. Clever and targeted marketing from a young age and an abundant system of convenience food purely driven by profit over health has made it harder for us all to eat well all the time.

Rather than dwell too much on the problem, I want to remind myself and you of the solution because it is in our hands. The solution to being healthier, happier and more energised in 2026 is more HOME COOKING. When I’m cooking more I’m winning more and it all becomes easier.

By planning your meals into the week, batch cooking and meal prepping for work, you can take control of your mood and your energy. You will undoubtedly still face challenges with getting good quality sleep and feel stress throughout the year BUT you will be in a much better position to work through it and stay on track.

Try to never lose sight of the power of nutrition on your physical and mental health. One day at a time, one healthy meal at a time, you can and will achieve your goals this year.

Good luck in 2026. Have a strong year. Take care of yourself and keep cooking.

Lots of love, Joe x