It’s not very hard to get yourself into a habit, but usually the easiest habits to make are the worst for us and the hardest to break. Now is the time to wipe those habits away – good, bad, and neutral – that are holding you back from bigger and better things. Not sure where to start? Try the five A’s:
- Acknowledge: The first step is admitting you have a habit that is in your way. Figure out what habits you have that are mentally, emotionally, or physically keeping you down. Keep in mind that your habit may be something you are NOT doing.
- Appoint: Choose one habit that you want to break. You don’t have to rush. Take it one habit at a time. Once one habit is wiped away you can start on the next one.
- Analyze: Break down your habit. What triggers you to do it? When and where does it happen most often? Why do you do it in the first place? Write it all out. Be as honest with yourself as possible.
- Address: Write down a countermeasure for each trigger of your habit that you can start acting on today. For example, if you always smoke on your way to work, place a note on your dash and keep a pack of gum in your glove box.
- Accountability: Create a network of accountability within and around yourself. Set up a reward system for when you deny your old habit. Share your journey with friends, family, and coworkers and ask for help from them when you need an extra push.
Still not sure where to start? Check out this helpful list of common habits that are healthy to break.
30 Old Habits You Should Scrub Away