As the new year begins, we make New Year’s resolutions related to changing for the better. We may rethink our lives, our health, and our well-being. In the spirit of the New Year, why not create a new habit? Yes, it can be tough to change. After all, the brain’s synaptic patterns responsible for our default actions are ingrained. Be intentional and start small.
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| Photo courtesy of Pixabay |
Consider this strategy for adopting a new habit:
- Create one new habit at a time. Tackling a huge change can be overwhelming. Break it down. For example, joining a gym is costly. Instead, build more movement into your daily routine. Take a brisk walk after dinner or add floor exercises, dance, or stretching into your day.
- Prepare your environment. For example, setting up a bedtime routine that includes a reminder chime on your cell phone half an hour beforehand can help you to get more sleep.
- Write your new habit down. And share your commitment with someone whom you trust and who can support you–like an accountability partner. For example, you decide to declutter your home. Check in with your someone, giving them weekly updates on your progress.
- Repeat your habit to make it stick. If you’re cutting out junk food, for instance, aim to eat more healthy options. Indulge in your treats, but less often.
- Give yourself credit. How can you reward your efforts? And when you don’t practice the new habit, instead of seeing this as a total failure, get right back on track at the next opportunity.
What new habit do you want to create for this year? Start small with one habit, for which you prepare, write down, and share. Repeat your new habit often. And remember to reward yourself. You’ll begin to see and experience a productive 2019 as you empower yourself to achieve your goals!
Happy New Year! Happy New Habit! Happy New YOU!