We all have strengths and weaknesses. The best way to improve upon our weakness is to practice a new behavior, right? Practice practice practice. But how easy is that?
The answer is not as easy as you may think. We are creatures of habit; habits we aren’t even aware of. This is why change is so hard for many of us. We can learn a new behavior, sure, but how quickly…and when does it stick?
What steps should we take to sustain changed behavior?
- Be VERY specific on the habit you would like to create (which may also be stopping a certain behavior).
- Understand the reason why you want to change. What are the benefits to be derived from this changed behavior?
- Create a plan of action and STICK WITH IT! Consistency is key. Stay committed to your plan.
- Practice, practice, practice. Our brain creates pathways for behavior. We need to repeat and repeat and repeat to create new pathways.
- Expect resistance from your body, from your moods, added stress. This is your natural resistance to creating new pathways. Don’t give up!
- One day, and you won’t know when and where, your behavior change will become your new habit.
If you are interested in further readings on creating habits, here are some excellent books on the topic:
- The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business (name one of the best books of the year by NY Times)
- Mini Habits: Smaller Habits, Bigger Results
- 23 Anti-Procrastination Habits: How to Stop Being Lazy and Get Results in Your Life
“Our actions change our minds, our minds can change our behaviors and our behavior can change the outcomes.”
–Manish Abraham