Your Habit Coach's story: Meet Ilse Paanakker

In 2015 I thought all my hard work had paid off when I got my dream job in NYC in marketing at one of the largest beauty companies in America. I was focused on “having it all” and quickly found myself always busy, working unpredictable hours, pursuing professional development opportunities, and managing a bustling social and family life. Prioritizing myself, and my wellness, quickly went on a backburner. Something always seemed to get in the way.

One year into this new lifestyle I wasn’t feeling comfortable or confident in my own skin and knew something had to change. I realized wellness had to be a part of my lifestyle because it would empower me to succeed in all aspects of my life.

I was determined and started my wellness journey by following a 12 week program I’d seen on Instagram. Between the foam rolling, high intensity interval training workouts, nutrition, and cardio requirements, it demanded I workout an overwhelming eight times a week and eat super restrictively! While I was working out more than before, I noticed I was letting myself down every time I didn’t follow the program to a T. Instead of being proud of myself, my wellness routine became something that was always on my mind and stressing me out.

I decided to test out other approaches. After three years of experimenting, I found the formula that works: building habits, one at a time. I now focus on building one habit at a time and only add in a new habit once the first becomes as routine as brushing my teeth. Over time, I built a robust wellness routine that empowered me to quit a job that wasn’t serving me, confidently interview for one I loved, and eventually start this business! I still use this approach today to add wellness habits to my routine.

Habit House was born when I realized I wasn’t the only one facing this problem, many fellow ambitious individuals are constantly punishing themselves for prioritizing their career and social/family life over their wellness.

It doesn't have to be this way.

You should feel empowered by your wellness routine. Empowered to start that side hustle, spend more time with those you love, speak up at work, etc!

I’ve had the privilege of empowering hundreds of individuals like you to build a variety of fitness, nutrition, and self-care habits using this method (read some of their stories). I won’t stop until all ambitious individuals are living the best version of their lives.

You ready to do this?

-Ilse Paanakker, Founder Habit House

P.S. Every Sunday I talk about a habit I’m building on the gram, check it out.