While it may sound easy to say you are going to adopt new habits, it’s often easier to revert back to old ways. These are some tried-and-true tips to make new habits stick.
Set Realistic Goals
Don’t try to do too much, too fast. That will make you feel overwhelmed, and you might simply give up. You’ll be more likely to stick to a new habit if you start small. As you adjust to your new way of life, you can make additional changes. Those incremental improvements will add up.
For example, instead of trying to immediately eliminate sugar from your diet, focus on replacing one sugary snack or beverage per day with a healthier option. Choose an exercise routine that makes sense based on your current fitness level. As your stamina improves, you can set more ambitious goals.
Eliminate Barriers
Remove any obstacles that might keep you from sticking to a new habit. You’ll be more likely to keep a commitment to yourself if you don’t have an excuse not to.
If you want to work out, find a gym that’s close to your house or workplace and that has hours that fit your schedule. If you want to eat healthier food, don’t buy junk food. Prepare nutritious meals and snacks in advance so you can quickly find something healthy to eat.
Link a New Habit to an Existing One
To make a desirable behavior part of your routine, combine it with something that you already do. For example, if you want to develop the habit of journaling every day, you can do it for a few minutes each morning after breakfast.
Combine a New Behavior With Something You Enjoy
It will be easier to convince yourself to do something that you don’t want to do, but should do, if you pair that activity with something that you like. For instance, if it’s hard to motivate yourself to exercise, you can listen to a podcast or an audiobook while you go for a walk or do reps at the gym.
Have Others Hold You Accountable
Getting support can make it easier to stick to a new habit. If you want to get in shape, ask a friend or family member to work out with you or check in regularly and ask you if you met your goals. Knowing that someone else is supporting you and monitoring your progress can help you stay focused.
If You Slip Up, Get Right Back on Track
You might not stick to a new habit because you’re sick, you have to work late or you need to deal with an emergency. If you miss a day, don’t beat yourself up. Life happens. Get back on track the next day.
