Barriers to doing: how we can live healthier, longer, better lives

ARTICLE

1 January 2026

3 min read

Let’s be honest — doing the things we know are good for us can feel like a challenge. Whether it’s going for that morning walk, choosing a healthier meal, or taking time to check in with ourselves, often the gap between intention and action can be surprisingly wide.

That’s why we’re proud to introduce our new campaign, Do It For Life, inspiring Aussies to stay healthy by connecting their everyday choices to what matters most – the people they love, the passions they chase, and the life they want to live.

Finding what drives us

When you think about why you want to live a long, healthy life, the answer usually isn’t just for your health. We don’t choose a salad because lettuce is exciting, or go for a walk simply to get our steps in. We do it because of how it makes us feel – more energised, more confident, more able to join in on the moments that matter, whether that’s chasing the kids around the park, exploring the world, or cheering on your team from the sidelines. Everything we do for our health, we do so we can keep doing life as well as we can, for as long as we can. That’s what Do It For Life is all about.

When we connect our actions to something meaningful, we’re far more likely to keep going. Whatever your reason for embracing healthier habits – whether it’s for yourself, the people you love, or the life you want to create – we’re here to support you in making it last.

Finding motivation to ‘do’

We all have those days where everything just feels hard. Motivation can dip for all sorts of reasons — lack of time, low energy, feeling overwhelmed, or even fear of failing. Sometimes we get stuck in an “all or nothing” mindset, thinking if we can’t do something perfectly, there's no point in doing it at all.

But being a do-er isn’t about working non-stop or getting everything right. It’s about showing up when you can, trying your best, and getting back up again, no matter the bumps or setbacks along the way. Doing is a lifelong journey, and while the path may not always be easy, keeping sight of your ‘why’ can help you take action even when motivation or self-belief starts to waiver.

When the doing gets tough

One of the most powerful ways to overcome barriers is to remember why you started in the first place. It’s not about ticking every box or getting it right all the time – it's about staying connected to the reasons that matter most. Maybe it’s being there for your family, having energy to do what you love, or creating the future you dream of. When your choices are anchored to something meaningful, it’s easier to keep moving forward, even when the path isn’t perfect. That’s where lasting change really happens – not in chasing perfection, but in living with purpose.

How we’re powering more do-ers

The AIA Vitality program is designed to support every do-er on their journey to living a healthier, longer, better life. It is a personalised, science-backed health and wellbeing program that supports you every day to make healthy lifestyle choices. The program incentivises you to know your health, improve your health, and get rewarded with lower insurance premiums on eligible policies, discounts and cashbacks on great partners, and so much more.

Every choice you make for your health matters, because it’s tied to the people, passions, and life you care about most. When we connect our actions to what truly matters, we create lasting, meaningful change. So, whatever you do, and why ever you do it, Do It For Life.

Staff Writer

Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.

Disclaimer:
Copyright © 2026 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.

Share

This inspirational content is brought to you by AIA Vitality

AIA Vitality is a science-backed program that helps you learn more about your health,
offers ways to improve it and motivates you with rewards along the way.

Stay in touch

Thank you!

Sign up to receive a monthly email featuring articles on health and wellbeing to help you live a healthier, longer, better life.

You have registered for the Content Hub newsletter with all our latest articles on health and wellness information for a healthier, happier and longer life.

First name *

This field is required.

Last name *

This field is required.

Email address *

Must be valid email.

I have read and understood AIA Australia’s privacy policy. I acknowledge and consent to the collection, use and disclosure of my personal information as detailed in the privacy policy.

Please agree with above statements