How to Change Any Habit in 5 Simple Steps

Habits are automatic actions that we perform without conscious thought – whether we realize it or not. Good habits, like regular exercise and healthy eating, can enhance our lives and wellbeing. Conversely, bad habits, such as smoking, overspending, and procrastination, can impact negatively on our health, finances, and productivity. But, how can we change our habits for the better? About.com has shared an article that details 5 simple steps to change any habit.

Step 1: Write down specifically what you are trying to do and by when.

The first step to changing any habit is to identify the habit you want to change and set a specific goal. For instance, you may want to quit smoking or stop biting your nails. Be specific about what you want to achieve and set a deadline for achieving it. Writing down your goal will help conceptualize your objective, providing clarity, and giving you something concrete to work towards.

Step 2: What are the obstacles?

The second step is to identify potential obstacles that might hinder you from reaching your goal. Obstacles can be internal, such as fear or self-doubt, or external, like time constraints or lack of resources. Understanding your obstacles and what could hinder you from achieving your goal will allow you to prepare for them proactively.

Step 3: WRITE a plan to overcome EACH obstacle.

After identifying potential obstacles, the next step is to create a detailed plan for overcoming each one. For instance, if you have decided to quit smoking, some potential obstacles could include withdrawal symptoms, smoking triggers, or the behavior of smoking itself. You could develop a plan to address each obstacle, such as consulting your doctor for quitting aids or avoiding situations that trigger smoking. Creating a comprehensive plan for overcoming obstacles will increase your chances of success.

Step 4: List the benefits to you.

The fourth step is to identify the benefits that changing your habit will bring. For instance, if you quit smoking, you will save money, have better health, and improve your quality of life. Focusing on the benefits of changing your habit will motivate you to stick to your resolution even when the going gets tough.

Step 5: Is it worth it?

After going through the first four steps, the final step is to assess whether achieving your goal is worth it. Evaluating your efforts can help you determine if the benefits outweigh the costs. For instance, if quitting smoking will result in a healthier life, it is worth enduring the temporary discomfort that may come along with quitting. However, if the benefits do not justify the effort required, you may need to reconsider it and set a more achievable goal.

Conclusion

Changing any habit is not easy, but it can be done. The About.com article provides a blueprint for breaking negative patterns and creating positive ones. The five-step process involves identifying the habit, setting a specific goal, listing potential obstacles, creating a plan to overcome barriers, identifying benefits, and finally assessing if the effort is worth it. Consistency and dedication are required to change a habit, but with the right mindset and approach, success is achievable. Start small, celebrate your progress, and keep pushing forward. Remember, it is never too late to change your habits for the better.