Setting Good Habits

The word “Habit” is defined as a regular practice. Why are some habits broken when it should be something put into practice on a regular basis?  We know what we want to do and we are determined to make sure we start and stick with it.  However, after a few days or even hours our new habits often can go by the wayside. Here are six tips you can use when setting good habits or goals for yourself.

1. Daily habits are your new way of life.  You must make a decision that this is how you want to live and will be part of your daily regular practice.  Do not focus on what others are saying or doing. Do it because you know this new habit will make you feel better each day. 

2. Manage yourself.  Continue telling yourself the truth why you want to follow and keep this new habit alive. For example, it can be something like, “I am walking every morning before work because I want to stay in shape. Later in the evening, I am spending time with family or will have other functions I must attend, leaving me little or no time to focus on my health.” Manage how you want your habits to look and feel. 

3. Balance what you need and what you want. When setting a habit, balance your needs vs wants. For example, if your new habit is to save money, you should buy the things you need to survive.  What you want is to buy that new shirt and that is not balanced when you want to save for a car or home. Rationalize what you can and cannot live with in terms of reaching your goals. 

4. Determine your habits and what fits your current life. Set habits that work for you now.  For example, do not set a goal that says, you will eat fish 7 days a week when you have not gone to the grocery store and you only have enough for 3 days.  If you know you are not a think ahead shopper, then the habit or regular practice will not be accomplished.  Set habits that are realistic and attainable that fit your current lifestyle.  Yes, it will take work on your part but it is not so far out of reach or out of the norm you will stop after a week.

5. Set a specific time and track success.  When setting habits or a goal it is important to set a time or a particular day you will complete this new regular practice activity. Remember, this is part of your new life.  Just like you brush or comb your hair in the morning, make this habit as part of your daily practice.  Set a time that works and becomes second nature for you.  Additionally, when you hold yourself accountable, you are more likely to do it by tracking your success.  Think of it as an App on your phone.  “Sarah’s Habit App.” For example, you can download apps like Way of Life App.  This is a great way to track your success. Find ways to keep yourself motivated: emojis, stickers, smiles, hugs, high fives, etc., anything that puts a smile on your face and keeps you motivated. 

6. Reward yourself.  You have accomplished something that you should be proud of.  To keep habits active, reward yourself. Find something that brings you joy and reward yourself for keeping true and following through with following your goals. 

I hope these tips help start good habits that fit your needs and desires.