Suggestions on How to Create New Habits.

Contemplating life changes.

There are a lot of “experts” and “gurus” out there who are willing to sell you a way to create a new you. Really there is nothing wrong with you. Maybe you need to change some habits. Get rid of old ones that are holding you back from reaching your full potential. Add some new habits that will make your life more fulfilling. But remember there is nothing wrong with you.

It is very simple really. 

• It takes about a month to create new muscle memory. Treat that beautiful gray matter of yours like a muscle.
• Start with one small thing you want to change.
• Map out the steps you need to take and set a date. 
  • Make a list.
  • Set a short term goal.
  • Keep your steps simple.
  • Write down the benefits you will get from the change
  • Use the scientific method to make a plan.
    • No failures, just different outcomes.
    • Science experiments are fun.
• Set up reminders and self affirmations to cheer yourself on.
• You are going to fall off the wagon so to speak. It’s ok don’t be hard on yourself. You didn’t learn to ride a bicycle in one day, you fell you got up and did it again. 
• Find someone to do it with you or at least someone to be your cheerleader. A buddy is great for accountability but that cheerleader over there will keep you honest as well.
• Interrupt negative thoughts before they discourage you.
  • Some ways to get rid of negative thoughts are to:
    • Set aside time to think about them and then let them go. Follow with a positive affirmation.
    • Write them down and then throw them away
    • Reframe your situation to move away from what is triggering the negative thoughts.
    • Start your morning with meditation that helps you to feel positive energy.

Image from Carnegie Hall Facebook Page.

On average it  takes 30 days to remove an old habit and replace it with a new one. That does not mean that you will be successful on your first try but you will be closer than you were. I don’t know where he got it from but my maternal grandfather used to “The only way to get to Carnegie Hall was to practice, practice, practice.” For those of you who don’t know, Carnegie Hall is a concert hall in NYC, only the best of the best are ever offered an opportunity to perform there.