Many of my clients see me because they want to change. There's something in their lives that is so routine, yet so undesirable or unhealthy. Maybe it's a poor diet, dating toxic men or women or laziness. They seek change, yet it eludes them. Most behaviors, good and bad, become automatic or habituated over time. For example, tying a shoe is probably something you do without any thought whatsoever -- you might even be able to do it blindfolded. That is essentially, habit. Similarly, reaching for junk food is a behavior that becomes reinforced and happens almost like a reflex. Whereas, studying more effectively or being more diligent at work, are habits that can be developed.
Here are my tips to form healthy habits that stick:
- Watch your language. That's right, so often the way you think and talk informs and influences your actions and behaviors. For example, if you're trying to eat healthier and you tell yourself "Don't eat junk food" -- that will serve as a negative command. In much the same way if I say, "Don't think about a zebra with pink and blue stripes." One has to actually think about what a zebra would look like in order not to think about it.
For more tips on healthy living check out my book Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days.