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Post date: 4 Jan 2023
Are you tired of trying to form new habits that never seem to stick?
Are you tired of trying to form new habits that never seem to stick?
Recent research suggests that our unconscious processes play a huge role in habit formation, and by understanding how they work, we can hack our brains to make it easier to develop new habits that actually work. Here are four tips to get you started:
- Make it desirable.
When we try to form a new habit, we often approach it with a negative mindset, telling ourselves we "should" do something rather than wanting to do it. Instead, try to find something positive about the new behavior and associate it with good feelings. For example, if you're trying to write more, join a writing group for support and feedback. If you want to go to bed earlier, find something enjoyable to do in the extra time you'll have in the morning. If you want to exercise, find an activity you like doing, or find a friend you like to share the exercise.
- Pairing.
Pairing is the process of linking a stimulus with another to elicit the same emotion. For example, if you enjoy a certain activity, like reading, you can pair it with a new habit you're trying to form, like exercising. Soon, the new habit will become associated with the positive feelings you get from the activity you already enjoy.
- Gradual implementation.
Rather than trying to completely overhaul your entire routine at once, try implementing new habits gradually. Start small and gradually increase the frequency or duration of the new behavior until it becomes a regular part of your routine. For example, if you want to walk more, start out with a 10 minute local walk every other day, and work up to a daily longer walk.
- Focusing on positive feelings.
Rather than punishing yourself for not sticking to a new habit, try to focus on the positive feelings and benefits it brings. This can help motivate you to continue and make the new habit feel more enjoyable.
By using these strategies, you can make developing new habits a more manageable and enjoyable process. With a little bit of effort and patience, you can successfully create lasting changes in your life.
Remember, if you need help getting started (or restarted) exercising or eating healthily, contact me. We can hear what's going on for you and make a plan.
Remember, if you need help getting started (or restarted) exercising or eating healthily, contact me. We can hear what's going on for you and make a plan.
Read the full article from Psychology Today here: 4 Tips for Developing New Habits that Actually Work
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