It's always challenging when we decide to start something new, like a habit, in our life. Of course, if you are currently working, your hours may already be strained with other essential commitments. If you are currently looking for work, in the unemployed lines, then the time is there to start developing a positive habit but not necessarily the desire. In both instances, here are a few tips that may help you kickstart a new habit that in time could profit your health, happiness, and pocketbook.
1. Work on one habit at a time. Start small. At times, we get an idea to do something and we go to the extreme on it. It must be a human thing. However, we soon get discouraged because we can't finish the task we set out to complete. Shoot low and reasonably. If you want to add more vegetables to your diet that is currently deficient, then start with one added vegetable a day. If you have left off juicing because time has gotten away from you, then start with a fresh juice every three days. Remember at first to keep the habit small and consistent.
2. Have a good reason for this new habit. In other words, concentrate on why you are starting this habit and its benefits. Post a note in an obvious location as to the benefits of this new habit. Motivation, although small, can work its magic. Perhaps you have trouble smiling and want to smile more. Yes, nobody likes a grouch. Try and make one person smile back at you when you smile at them. Do daily. Now you have brightened your day and theirs. I'd say that's a good reason to continue your smiling habit.
3. Share or not to share with a friend. Personally for me sharing doesn't always work. The added pressure of someone watching does not help me. I do better if I keep it to myself if I am starting a new regimen or habit. Believe me, I can be pretty tough on myself. However, some people need to share with someone. Sharing with a buddy can help many people to continue their habit and stay accountable. Just make sure you and your buddy have open communication or it will not help.
4. Don't give up or view as failure. I could quote some sayings here, but basically it has been said that a new habit takes 21 days to form. Don't look at it as failure. Look at as a learning experience, especially about yourself. You are learning what works and what doesn't work for you.
5. Not all habits are equal. Some habits that we need to form are of a serious nature and can be critical in our life. A lifetime habit can be hard to stop while trying to incorporate a new one. More serious things should be regulated and consulted with by professionals.
6. Have a sense of humor. Finding laughter in a new habit can lighten the air and actually help you to stay on track. As with all things in life. laughter can get you through the smallest and biggest problems of life.
2. Have a good reason for this new habit. In other words, concentrate on why you are starting this habit and its benefits. Post a note in an obvious location as to the benefits of this new habit. Motivation, although small, can work its magic. Perhaps you have trouble smiling and want to smile more. Yes, nobody likes a grouch. Try and make one person smile back at you when you smile at them. Do daily. Now you have brightened your day and theirs. I'd say that's a good reason to continue your smiling habit.
3. Share or not to share with a friend. Personally for me sharing doesn't always work. The added pressure of someone watching does not help me. I do better if I keep it to myself if I am starting a new regimen or habit. Believe me, I can be pretty tough on myself. However, some people need to share with someone. Sharing with a buddy can help many people to continue their habit and stay accountable. Just make sure you and your buddy have open communication or it will not help.
4. Don't give up or view as failure. I could quote some sayings here, but basically it has been said that a new habit takes 21 days to form. Don't look at it as failure. Look at as a learning experience, especially about yourself. You are learning what works and what doesn't work for you.
5. Not all habits are equal. Some habits that we need to form are of a serious nature and can be critical in our life. A lifetime habit can be hard to stop while trying to incorporate a new one. More serious things should be regulated and consulted with by professionals.
6. Have a sense of humor. Finding laughter in a new habit can lighten the air and actually help you to stay on track. As with all things in life. laughter can get you through the smallest and biggest problems of life.
So my friend, start with one facet of your new habit, start small, reason on its benefits, don't give up, and by all means, learn to laugh at yourself (the good, bad, and ugly). Remember, most good habits will lead to positive things such as better health, happiness, and possibly a profitable pocketbook.
