Bad habits can be tough to break. Whether it’s procrastination, overeating, or any number of other unhealthy behaviors, old habits can die hard. But it is possible to change your ways and start fresh with a new leaf. Here are some tips on how to turn over a new leaf and leave your old habits behind.
Set Realistic Goals
When trying to break a bad habit, it’s important to set achievable goals. Breaking old habits can be tough, but setting realistic goals is a great way to start. Trying to go cold turkey may not be realistic, and could set you up for failure. If you’re trying to quit smoking, for example, set a goal to smoke fewer cigarettes each day until you’re able to stop completely. Similarly, if you’re trying to cut back on drinking, set a goal to drink only on special occasions or weekends. If your drinking has become problematic, seeking treatment to change this detrimental habit is also a realistic goal. It takes realization, acceptance, and courage to undergo rehabilitation and treatment for substance abuse and problematic habits that lead to addiction.
Small changes like these will help you break old habits and develop new, healthier ones.
Create A Support System
One of the best ways to turn over a new leaf and leave your old habits behind is to create a support system for yourself. Making lasting changes in your life can be tough, especially if you’re trying to do it alone. But one of the best ways to increase your chances of success is to create a supportive network of family and friends who will encourage and motivate you along the way.
Think about the people in your life who are most likely to offer helpful advice and encouragement – these are the people you should turn to when you’re ready to make a change. If you don’t have anyone in mind, consider joining a support group or online community dedicated to helping others achieve their goals.
Find An Alternative Activity
When you’re trying to break a bad habit, it’s important to find an alternative activity to replace the one that you’re trying to give up. This will help occupy your time and give you a positive outlet for the energy and emotions that you would normally invest in your bad habit.
Some ideas for alternative activities include:
- Exercise
- Spending time with friends or family
- Pursuing a hobby
- Organizing your home or workspace
- Reading
Identify Your Triggers
In order to successfully break a bad habit, you need to be aware of the things that trigger your urge to engage in the behavior. Once you know what these triggers are, you can develop strategies for avoiding or coping with them.
Some common triggers for bad habits include:
- Boredom
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Tiredness
- Hunger
Whatever your triggers are, it’s important to be aware of them so that you can avoid them or find alternative ways of dealing with them. If you can’t avoid them, try to find a way to deal with them that doesn’t involve your old habit.
Be Patient With Yourself
You’re trying to change your ways, but it’s tough to go about it. Every time you slip up, you feel like a failure. Maybe you’re trying to quit smoking or cut down on drinking, or finally start that exercise regime. Whatever it is, it’s hard to break a habit – especially if you’ve been doing it for a long time.
It takes time to break old habits and create new ones. Beating yourself up for setbacks will only make it harder to reach your goal. When you do slip up, don’t get discouraged. Just pick yourself up and keep going to get back on track as soon as possible.
Reward Yourself For Progress
When you’re trying to break a bad habit, it’s important to celebrate your successes, no matter how small. When you reward yourself for making progress, it will help motivate you to keep going and eventually kick the habit for good. Here are some ideas for how you can reward yourself:
- Take a break – Give yourself permission to take a break from your usual routine when you reach a milestone in your journey. Whether it’s taking a long bath, watching your favorite movie, or indulging in your favorite comfort food, allow yourself to enjoy something special that you wouldn’t normally allow yourself to do.
- Buy yourself something nice – Sometimes, material things can be just the motivation you need to stay on track. When you reach a goal, treat yourself to something you’ve been wanting, like a new book, piece of jewelry, or article of clothing.
- Do something for yourself – Take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Get a massage, take a yoga class, or go for a nature walk. Doing something that makes you feel good will help keep you motivated to continue working towards your goals.
- Spend time with loved ones – One of the best ways to reward yourself is by spending time with the people you love. Whether it’s going out to dinner with friends or taking your family on vacation, surround yourself with those who make you happy and who support your efforts to turn over a new leaf.
Bad habits can be tough to break, but it is possible to change your ways and start fresh with a new leaf. By setting realistic goals, creating a support system, finding an alternative activity, and being patient with yourself, you can slowly but surely leave your old habits behind. Reward yourself for progress along the way to help keep you motivated!