Bad habits are hard to break.
They’re deeply ingrained into your subconscious because of behavior you learn and repeat over time.
Start here.
1. Take more responsibility.
It's okay to just admit that you didn't achieve a goal.
The more you force yourself to be self-aware and held accountably, the more you can strive for change.
Taking responsibility instead of looking to escape will help you recognize which areas of your life can be improved.
Change is the first step to breaking bad habits in your daily life.
2. Stop comparing yourself to others
In a social media-driven world,
everyone's putting their best foot forward, often masking what's really going on behind the 'gram.
Your self-worth is not defined by someone else's successes or failures.
Block out the noise and stay focused.
3. Get real.
Setting unrealistic expectations sets you up for failure.
Unfortunately, success isn't an overnight thing,
so burdening yourself with unrealistic expectations and deadlines will only lead to failure and disappointment.
Instead, set realistic, small goals that constantly make you feel like you're winning.
4. Quit the complaining
While it's okay to express feelings of discontent sometimes,
you have to be careful not to let it become a regular thing.
Using positive thinking as a first response to something not going your way will help you change your situation and move forward.
5. Start from Simple to Complex
The best approach is to take out the single target,
then make progress towards a higher target.
You can start by dealing with the bad habits from the less serious to the more severe.
6. Associate with Supporters
The individuals you associate with have a significant influence on your habits.
According to a study, if your friend becomes obese, you stand the risk of obesity by 57%
Other studies also added that we tend to adopt the same lifestyle of the company we keep.
7. Replace bad habits with good ones.
Here’s an idea: every time you get the craving for a cigarette, eat a mini-carrot instead.
Of course, it’s infinitely more difficult than it sounds.
Habits take time, persistence, and patience.
You need to make a commitment and find ways to stick with it
8. Leave yourself reminders
Using stickers, sticky notes, or other visual reminders
wherever the habit behavior happens can help you rethink the action when something triggers you.
You can also use a smartphone for reminders.
Set your alarm and add a motivating note to yourself, such as “Time to turn off the TV! :)” or “After-dinner walk — remember how good it feels!”
9. Read about Mental Models
Mental models do not tell you what you think,
rather they teach you how to think,
and encourage you to think critically.
This book will help you a lot in fighting bad habits.
Addressing habits in steps can also help, even if these steps seem too small or easily manageable in the beginning.
11. Practice self-care
Many people find it easier to create positive life changes when they begin from a place of wellness.
Try these self-care tips:
- See your healthcare provider for any long-term concerns.
- Aim to be physically active most days.
- Take at least a little time each day for hobbies, relaxation, or other things that improve your mood.
12. Motivate yourself with rewards for success
When you focus on the progress you’ve made,
you’re less likely to become discouraged or engage in negative self-talk,
Both of which can do a number on your motivation:
“Celebrate your wins,”
“Maybe you aren’t ready to run a marathon,
but if running a mile this week is easier than it was last week, that’s a success.”
13. Give it time
Experts believe it takes about 10 weeks (2 to 3 months) or more to break an unwanted happen.
Of course, some habits may take more or less time to break.
Bad habits will prevent you from reaching your full potentials.
If you don’t like the outcome, block the source.
Start from TODAY!
- Book recommendation: “Live Intentionally”
Live Intentionally is a 90 Day Self-Improvement Project that will re-calibrate your entire existence
It will change your habits, daily routine, mindset, and make you strong and disciplined.