Healthy Habit
- Elizabeth Davis
- Mar 6, 2018
- 2 min read
How many days does it take to create a new habit (21)? That's what we are going to explore today.
How many times have you told yourself, AND meant it, that you were going to accomplish a task and it just never seems to happen?
This is more common than you think and you are definitely not alone here. Sometimes our good intentions don't necessarily create action. Lets find out how to put power behind our words.
1. Creating a new habit
Starting up a new routine is challenging. As humans we are used to doing the same thing over and over. When we throw something new into that completely comfortable routine, it's easy to make excuses for ourselves.
Don't beat yourself up, here are a few things you can do to help you accomplish your new goal:
2. Reminder
Set a reminder for yourself. Maybe it's an alarm on your phone or a hand-written note. Whatever that reminder is you need this to help you create your new healthy habit. Otherwise we'll forget!
3. Routine
Start simple. The routine part needs to be easy so you wont talk yourself out of it. If the habit is working out five times per week, just show up to the gym. If you don't workout that's okay, but be the person who accomplishes their goals.
I promise, if you just showed up to the gym regardless, you would probably at least do something while you're there. This will reinforce confidence in your new habit!
4. Reward Yourself
It's important to recognize your success's.
Using the example above about working out, if you just show up to the gym tell yourself, "That was a good day." Or "Victory."
These small affirmations encourage good behavior and you're more likely to repeat the act if you reward it.
The rewards can be more tangible if that works better for you.
One of the rewards I use involves cupcakes. I have a bit of a sweet tooth so if I've completed my weekly workouts (5 days/week) on Fridays I get to go to the local cupcake shop and pick one out.
It's important to get excited about the little things!!
If you have any further questions about creating new habits, feel free to contact me at elizabeth@fosterdavis.com
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