Happy New Year!
Have you made any New Year resolutions? A new year, a new me... But how many times have you said that? Does it start well, only to fade out in a few weeks?
It's good to set goals or build healthy habits, and I am sure the will is there, but sometimes, the strategy to create the habits just doesn't work.
Here are some tips for build habits:
1. Start Small
Focus on making small, achievable changes that you can easily put into your daily routine. Starting too big maybe overwhelming and cause you to give up.
Eg: If your goal is to exercise more, start with just 5-10 minutes a day instead of committing to an hour-long session.
2. Be Consistent
Consistency is key. Try to do the behavior at the same time each day. The more consistently you practice a habit, the more likely it is to become a habit.
Example: Set a regular time each day to meditate, such as first thing in the morning or before bed.
3. Track Progress
Monitoring your progress, even if it’s something simple like a calendar or habit-tracking app, helps reinforce the new habit.
Example: Mark each successful day of your habit on a calendar.
4. Make It Enjoyable
Make sure your habit is something you enjoy or can reward yourself for. You’re more likely to stick with it if it feels rewarding in some way.
Example: If you're trying to read more, pick books that interest you instead of forcing yourself to read genres you don't enjoy.
5. Be Patient
Habits usually take 21 days to build, but it can vary for each person.
Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Mistakes are part of the process, and persistence is more important than perfection. Be kind to yourself.
6. Create Accountability
Share your goal with a friend, family member, or community who can encourage you and hold you accountable. Having external motivation can increase your commitment to the habit.
For example to join a fitness group if you’re working on exercising regularly.
7. Gradually Increase Difficulty
Once the habit has been established, gradually increase the complexity or intensity to continue improving.
Eg: If you’ve successfully made exercise a habit, slowly increase the time or try different workouts.
8. Visual Cues
Place reminders in visible spots to encourage you to keep up with the habit.
Example: Place your workout clothes where you can see them in the morning, or put a healthy snack in a spot where you’re more likely to grab it.
By following these strategies and being patient you can develop positive habits that stick and improve your life over time.
If you would like help please contact Scott at 07525851033 or email: oakleyhypnotherapy@hotmail.com
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