Consider starting a GOOD HABIT — HOW to start a new, GOOD HABIT
This is a subject that has been recently well-studied and here is some great advice for how to create a GOOD habit:
- Find a habit you already have. You know, like a morning cup of coffee. Or feeding your dog — etc.
- Pair the habit you want to start with that habit: Feed the dog, then sit down and do 3 minutes of box breathing (see above for instructions).
- Start with “small doses” and BUILD on that.
Per Dr. B.J. Fogg — “Habits are like plants”:
Forming a habit is like growing a plant. Let me explain . . .
- You start with something tiny (a seed or a sprout).
- You find a good spot for it in your garden (proper soil, light, moisture).
- You nourish your tiny plant so the roots get established.
As you do these three things, your tiny plant will take root and thrive.
Let's apply the points above to how habit formation works:
- You start with a tiny behavior.
- You find a good spot in your daily routine for this tiny behavior.
- You nourish your tiny behavior so it gets firmly established in your life.
As you do these three things, your new habit will take root and thrive. With practice, you will form habits quickly and easily.
Of course, you won't be perfect. Just like with gardening, there is some trial and error -- always something to learn. But you will get better. You will learn new skills and gain confidence. And this, in turn, can change your life in big ways.
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